
Emma Wood
Executive and Leadership Coach
I have a decade of experience working across small businesses, high-growth startups, private equity portfolio companies, and the Fortune 500. I’ve navigated several career transitions myself and have found coaching to be a powerful catalyst for transformation.
I received both my BA and my MBA from Stanford, and was most recently the COO of a private equity-backed consumer products company. My background also includes various roles in management consulting, strategy, operations, people operations, and innovation for companies such as McKinsey & Company, Sheryl Sandberg’s foundation (LeanIn.Org & OptionB.Org), ZX Ventures / AB InBev, and startups such as Haus.
I’ve also learned how to power through adversity and stay resilient no matter the circumstances. I’ve been laid off when a company failed to raise a round of financing. I’ve walked away from environments and trajectories that no longer aligned with my values or the impact I wanted to have. I’ve moved to new countries where I didn’t yet speak the language or know anyone. I know what it feels like to be at a crossroads and to make big changes in order to build the life you want – and if you are at a crossroads of your own, I’m here to walk with you.
In my free time, I’m a devoted dog mom, enthusiastic traveler (41 countries and counting!), bookworm, foodie and wine lover, aspiring surfer, and avid runner and hiker. I grew up in the beautiful Pacific Northwest but have since lived in California, NYC, and several European cities.
Whether you are feeling stuck at the bottom of a well or you’re already flying high and looking to accelerate your trajectory, I am here to support your growth and development.
Coaching Expertise
I’ve coached people across a variety of career stages, from new graduates to those making mid-career transitions. Much of my coaching experience has been with people navigating change, from launching a company to negotiating for a promotion to changing jobs. I believe that all aspects of our lives are connected, so I take a holistic approach to career coaching. My coaching style leans towards asking questions as I partner with my clients to design their own solutions and build lives where they’ll uniquely thrive.
Industry Focus
I’ve worked across various stages of companies from Seed Stage to Fortune 100, although in the last few years I’ve focused more on high-growth startups and small-to-medium sized businesses in consumer products and hospitality. I’ve made several large pivots in my own career, and know how challenging it can be to break into a new industry.
Target Clients
My core coaching clients are entrepreneurs, founders & business owners, executives, and high-potential young leaders looking to level up. Given my entrepreneurial background and passion for unleashing potential, I coach leaders to become the best versions of themselves.
Coaching Certification
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Co-Active Training Institute - In progress
Professional Background
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Ex-COO @ Antelope / Bocce’s Bakery, Strategy & Ops @ Haus, Consultant @ McKinsey, Sheryl Sandberg & Dave Goldberg Family Foundation (LeanIn.Org & OptionB.Org)
Education
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Stanford MBA, Stanford BA in French