CEO Coaching Program Facilitates Effective Leadership Transition in a Major Emergency Medical Services Provider
The Brief
In 2023, a new CEO was appointed to lead a major emergency medical services provider in Australia.
The organisation was undergoing significant change, particularly in response to Royal Commission reports that highlighted the need for culture change. Given that this was the new appointee’s first CEO role, the organisation engaged Future Leadership to provide onboarding and leadership coaching to ensure a smooth transition and effective leadership during a challenging period.
Improvement in Performance
Studies show that executives who receive coaching report a 70% improvement in work performance, according to the International Coaching Federation (ICF).
Increase in Employee Retention Rates
Companies that offer coaching and transition programs during restructuring or layoffs see a 60% increase in employee retention rates, as reported by the Human Capital Institute (HCI).
Faster Reemployment
Outplacement services and career transition coaching can reduce the time it takes for displaced employees to find new jobs by 50%, according to a study by RiseSmart.
Higher Return on Investment (ROI)
The ICF reports that companies receive an average return of A$11.85 for every dollar invested in executive coaching.
The Process
Future Leadership implemented a comprehensive coaching program for the new CEO, which included:
- Pre-Session: A ‘chemistry’ meeting was held to ensure the right fit and level of coach expertise and capability. Psychometric assessments were used to build self-awareness of leadership style, strengths, and any blind spots.
- Coaching Program: The coach worked flexibly to meet the CEO’s needs, acting as a confidant. Key areas of focus included understanding the expectations of the role, working effectively with the board and the executive team, and navigating the complexities of leading an organisation through significant cultural change. The program was designed to run over 12 months, with ongoing coaching to support the CEO through these difficult times of change, particularly post-COVID when employees were still feeling the pressure of the pandemic.
Future Leadership's Average Participant Indices Across Coaching & Transition Clients
43% Increase in Self Awareness
Individuals’ awareness of motives, values, strengths and development needs
27% Increase in Motivation
Individuals’ motivation to apply learning, insight and further develop
29% Increase in Confidence
Individuals’ confidence in their abilities and impact as a leader
32% Increase in Role Clarity
Individuals’ clarity around success factors associated with their role
The Outcome
The coaching program enabled the CEO to demonstrate strong leadership during a critical period of change for the organisation.
The tailored support helped the CEO to navigate their first role at this level, effectively lead the organisation, and address the significant cultural challenges highlighted by the Royal Commission.
