The best athletes have a coach. The best leaders do too.

The leaders who make the biggest impact rarely do it alone. They have someone in their corner—someone who helps them see what they can't see, navigate what they haven't navigated before, and push past the internal barriers that keep them playing small.

After years of working with executives at every level, we've identified the coaches who consistently help leaders make their most critical moves with clarity and confidence. These aren't just any coaches—they're the ones our network refers to again and again.

Our Top Executive Coach Recommendations

Jackie Hanselmann Sergi - For leaders exploring their next right move

Founder and CEO, Radical Spark Coaching

Jackie is the first person we refer to when someone is exploring their career options. With a background in executive search, she can marry both sides of the matchmaking equation—the employer and candidate sides. But because she no longer works for a search firm, she focuses exclusively on the candidate, which an executive search firm is not designed to do.

Jackie can help you get unstuck, unearth your needs, wants, and highest aspirations. And like any good coach, she'll identify what might be standing in the way of reaching your goals. If you're looking for the next just-right move, not just the next move, Jackie might be your coach.

The first time I spoke with Jackie, I remember thinking, "Here is someone comfortable in their skin."

Rayne Martin - For leaders stepping into new executive roles

Founder and CEO, It's The Impact

Rayne is a leadership coach who believes that if you change your world, you can change the world. I first met her while she was the executive director of Stand for Children in Louisiana. After nearly 100 walks and talks with Rayne, I can attest to her unique gift for helping you lean into your strengths, identify your fears, and hold them gently without letting them control your destiny.

When leaders are taking on a new executive role, we recommend they work with Rayne.

Anjani Bhargava - For leaders ready to go deep

Partner at Evolution, Founder of DLB Consulting

Anjani is a leadership coach for executives who want to open themselves up to their power. I worked with her during one of the most painful parts of my leadership journey. She is a gift who will hold space for you and ensure that you hold space for yourself.

But do not work with Anjani unless you want to go deep and get at what's underneath for you and who you are at your very best. She will not let you run away from yourself; in this way, she is the best of guides, teachers, and coaches.

Brian Gadsen - For leaders ready to address their fears

Founder and CEO, Courij Consulting

Brian is an executive coach who works to help you address your fears and overcome them. He comes highly recommended by many executives in our network who speak to his gifts in helping leaders set and reach personal and professional goals, master their lives, manage transitions, and heighten strategic thinking.

With over 20 years of leadership experience, Brian is a trusted guide for those at the top of their game.

Ron Rapatalo - For leaders positioning themselves for what's next

Author of "Leverage," Host of Ronderings Podcast

Full disclosure: I'm featured in Ron's book.

Ron's gift of collecting relationships has helped him hone a listening ear for people's hopes and aspirations. With over 20 years of experience in talent and executive search, Ron understands how to make a resume stand out, what hiring managers want to hear, and how to position yourself for what's next.

How to Choose the Right Coach

The best coaching relationship isn't just about credentials—it's about fit. Consider:

Where you are in your journey - Are you exploring options, stepping into a new role, or working through deeper leadership challenges?
Your readiness for the work - Some coaches focus on tactical positioning, others on deep personal transformation
Your communication style - Do you need someone direct, nurturing, or somewhere in between?

A Final Thought

Every leader we know who's made their biggest moves had someone helping them see around corners they couldn't see around themselves. The investment in coaching isn't just about improving performance—it's about becoming the leader your organization, your team, and you need most.

This post is part of our premium content for leaders navigating critical career decisions. Because the right coach at the right time can change everything.

Offor's Best of Executive Coaching List (2025)