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COACHING

Leaders need thought-partners, experts, advisors, and observers who will listen, reframe, and reflect back. I remember discovering that even at his peak, Michael Jordon always had a private coach working with him to keep him at his best. 

Coaching during leadership changes and challenges is especially important. In particular,  leadership transitions have the potential for disruption and chaos, and much of my coaching work is focused on new CEOs and new board chairs who are experiencing change - whether that is a desired changed or a sudden and unplanned change.

We all need someone we can talk and brainstorm with openly. 

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  • Are you struggling with staff problems?

  • Do you need better ideas for working with your board?

  • We endorse with zeal and fervor Ramona Baker as an executive recruiter par excellence! Her professionalism, expertise, and unwavering support were indispensable to the success of our executive search process. We could not have navigated this challenging journey without her guidance, and we are immensely grateful for her contributions to our organization.

    Ramona’s extensive knowledge and experience in the non-profit world were evident from the outset. She demonstrated a calm and composed demeanor throughout the process, assuring the board members and stakeholders alike. Her experience allowed her to convey sage advice all along the way. Ramona’s accessibility and willingness to address our queries and concerns promptly made her an integral part of our team. Her dedication and attention to detail saved the board valuable time and ensured that only the most qualified candidates were considered.

    She facilitated a seamless and productive experience. Her involvement during the critical final interviews was instrumental in fostering open and constructive discussions among board members, enabling us to make well-informed decisions.

    Katina Asbell and Odessa Archibald

    Co-Chairs, Board of Directors, Atlanta Contemporary

  • After our founding Executive Director resigned for health reasons, our new ED was faced with staff and community members who seemed unwilling to give her a chance.  As a board, we failed to recognize the situation until it was almost too late.  Hiring Ramona to coach the new ED made such an enormous difference that we also engaged her to coach the board through the changes. She may have saved our organization from collapsing. Ramona was patient, understanding, and generous with her advice and expertise.

    Vice Chair of Board, Jacksonville, FL

  • Ramona was enormously helpful in our search for a new managing director for Metro Theater Company.  Ramona’s knowledge, perspective and ability to engage effectively with staff and volunteers built our confidence as we took this important step.  She brings an energy and enthusiasm to the process that lifts and engages everyone involved.  Ramona’s guidance and counsel were pivotal in our ability to identify, cultivate and ultimately hire a fantastic new managing director.  

    Leslie Peters

    Chair of Search Committee, Metro Theater Company

  • When I gave the commencement address at Wesleyan College, I chose Ramona Baker as my speaking coach. She understands what works; is focused, disciplined, and patient; and, as a wonderful “storyteller” herself, has a pitch- perfect ear. In the end, my speech was exactly right. Best decision ever.

    Janice A. Mays

    Chief Counsel, Committee on Ways & Means, US House of Representatives

  • Ramona Baker offers the winning combination of expertise, on-the-ground experience, penetrating perception, a sensitivity to local identities, and an engaging wit.

    Her ability to listen, to absorb multiple perspectives, and to form helpful strategies resolved very complex logistical and long-term issues for the arts community in Jackson and helped us imagine a future which benefits us all.

    Betsy Bradley

    Director, Mississippi Museum of Art

  • Ramona Baker is one of the most skilled facilitators, speakers and planners working in the nonprofit arts world today. She is grounded in the real experiences of how the arts operates in our communities.

    Ramona is connected nationally to a network of successful arts program and most importantly, she gets the job done. Her style mixes no-nonsense advice with brilliant southern charm.

    Janet Brown

    Former Executive Director, Grantmakers in the Arts