About Melissa
Not your typical consultant, not your typical partner.
I am known for my contagious energy and unwavering passion for transforming intangible concepts into tangible outcomes. A blend of collaboration and customization ensures my clients get the results they want. Whether it’s in person group sessions, virtual one-to-one coaching or hybrid multi-session programs, emotional intelligence always serves as the foundation.
My leadership perspective draws from my years of experience as an executive in the advertising and film industry. I led companies and creative teams in Chicago, New York, and London, working with esteemed clients such as McDonald’s, Walgreens, Anheuser Busch, Nike, Capital One, Coca-Cola, and PBS.
As the former Chicago Director of the Institute for Management Studies, I collaborated with talent and leadership departments of Fortune 500 companies to develop and implement leadership initiatives that catered to emerging leaders as well as senior-level executives.
I operate at the intersection of the left brain and right brain, specializing in emotional intelligence and instinctive working styles. I deliver customized group and individual programming to organizations of all sizes.
In addition to my traditional business background, I leverage my training in improv and mindfulness to infuse creativity and presence into my work. Dance, yoga and writing keep my own creative juices flowing.
I serve as Board President for Free Spirit Media, a non profit organization located in Chicago’s west side. Free Spirit Media partners with youth storytellers to deliver programming that provides workforce development alongside transformational healing opportunities within the North Lawndale community.
I hold certifications in two prominent leadership assessments: Kolbe, which unveils natural strengths and problem-solving instincts, and the EQi2.0, which measures the essential skills that compose emotional intelligence. Furthermore, I am certified by the ICF (International Coaching Federation), as well as the Coaches Training Institute. These certifications attest to my commitment to excellence in coaching and leadership development.
Together, we can unlock the full potential of your leaders and drive transformative growth within your organization. Let’s embark on a journey of enhanced emotional intelligence and empowered leadership.
Certifications:
“Melissa is wonderful to work with. For our team Melissa conducted a three-part Emotional Intelligence series. Part one included a virtual group session to provide emotional intelligence basics and foundation. In part two, each group member completed an individual emotional intelligence assessment and 1:1 coaching session with Melissa. Part three was comprised of a half day in person session to learn more about emotional intelligence concepts and how to utilize them in our group setting. Our team’s experience with Melissa was fabulous. Her ability to connect to people 1:1 is remarkable. Even people who were skeptical at the beginning expressed having a great experience and learning opportunity. We are now 6 months out from our educational opportunity and continue to regularly discuss what we learned and how to work better as a team. We are hoping to bring Melissa back for additional follow up sessions.”
– Kristin Bialobok, Manager of the Center for Health Research Clinic, Kaiser Permanente