Executive Coaching

Executive coaching is a structured, confidential partnership between a certified coach and a senior leader designed to enhance strategic thinking, decision-making, emotional intelligence, and leadership presence. At Novator Coaching, Samira Saberi works one-on-one with C-suite executives, directors, and senior managers to develop the leadership capabilities that drive organizational performance.

Who executive coaching is for

Executive coaching serves leaders at the highest levels of organizations: CEOs, COOs, CFOs, VPs, directors, and senior managers who face complex decisions, manage large teams, and navigate organizational politics. It is also valuable for high-potential leaders being groomed for senior roles and need to develop executive presence and strategic thinking before the promotion.

What executive coaching addresses

• Strategic decision-making under uncertainty and pressure
• Executive presence and boardroom communication
• Stakeholder management across organizational levels
• Delegation and empowerment of senior teams
• Leading through change and organizational transformation
• Work-life integration at the senior leadership level

The Novator Coaching methodology

Samira uses a three-phase approach grounded in ICF Core Competencies: Discover and Assess (diagnostic assessment, goal setting, coaching roadmap), Transform and Grow (bi-weekly sessions using the GROW model and emotional intelligence frameworks), and Integrate and Scale (embedding new behaviors, building sustainable habits). Engagements typically last 6 to 12 months.

Results you can expect

The ICF reports that 96% of coached executives report improved performance and satisfaction. MetrixGlobal found executive coaching produces a 788% ROI. Common outcomes include improved decision quality, stronger team engagement, better stakeholder relationships, and measurable business impact.

The executive coaching process at Novator

Phase 1: Deep diagnostic (weeks 1-2)

Every engagement begins with a thorough assessment. Samira uses a combination of structured interviews, self-assessments, and optional 360-degree feedback to build a complete picture of your leadership strengths, blind spots, and the organizational context you operate in. Together, you establish SMART goals and design a coaching roadmap aligned with your business objectives.

Phase 2: Active development (months 1-9)

Bi-weekly 60-minute sessions combine real-time coaching on current challenges with structured skill development. Each session follows the GROW model (Goal, Reality, Options, Will) to ensure conversations translate into action. Between sessions, you implement new approaches, practice new behaviors, and track results. Samira provides frameworks, reflection exercises, and accountability structures that keep the work alive between meetings.

Phase 3: Integration and sustainability (months 9-12)

New leadership behaviors are embedded into your daily practice. The focus shifts from development to sustainability — building habits, systems, and support structures that ensure growth continues after the formal engagement ends. Many executives transition to monthly maintenance sessions to sustain momentum and address emerging challenges.

Common outcomes from executive coaching

• Improved decision quality — executives report making more confident, better-informed decisions with less second-guessing
• Stronger team performance — teams led by coached executives show measurably higher engagement and productivity
• Better stakeholder relationships — improved communication with boards, peers, direct reports, and external partners
• Reduced burnout risk — sustainable energy management and boundary-setting practices
• Career advancement — many coached executives report promotions, expanded responsibilities, or successful transitions within 12 months
• Organizational impact — coached leaders create ripple effects that improve culture, retention, and business results beyond their immediate team

Who should not hire an executive coach

Executive coaching is not the right investment if you are looking for someone to tell you what to do (hire a consultant), if you are dealing with clinical anxiety or depression (see a therapist), if you are not willing to examine your own patterns and behaviors, or if you expect transformation without doing the work between sessions. Coaching requires active participation and honest self-reflection.

Frequently asked questions

How long does executive coaching take?

A typical executive coaching engagement lasts 6 to 12 months with bi-weekly sessions. Some leaders continue with monthly maintenance sessions after the initial engagement.

What is the difference between executive coaching and leadership coaching?

Executive coaching focuses specifically on senior leaders (C-suite, directors, VPs) dealing with organizational complexity. Leadership coaching is broader and serves leaders at all levels. Both develop leadership capabilities through structured one-on-one partnerships.

How much does executive coaching cost?

Executive coaching typically ranges from $500 to $1,500 per session for C-suite leaders. A 6-month engagement averages $5,000 to $15,000. The ICF reports a median ROI of 700%.

How executive coaching differs from leadership coaching

While leadership coaching serves leaders at all levels, executive coaching is specifically designed for senior leaders dealing with organizational complexity, board-level visibility, stakeholder management across multiple levels, and decisions that affect hundreds or thousands of employees. The coaching conversations, frameworks, and accountability structures are calibrated for the unique pressures of the C-suite.