The International Coaching Federation's most recent annual report is a powerful reminder of how far our profession has come — and how much further we will have room to grow into.
From launching the #AI Coaching Framework & Standards to delivering 838,818 volunteer hours 🙌🏼 globally, the coaching community is stepping up 🚀 to meet the moment. And the numbers speak volumes 👏🏼:
🔹 56,667 credentialed coaches (+9% YoY)
🔹 60,741 ICF members across 141 chapters
🔹 73 scholarships awarded to underrepresented communities
🔹 $26M+ USD in pro bono coaching via the ICF Foundation
🔹 15,630 first-time logins on ICF Engage — our new global community platform
But it’s not just about scale. It’s more about impact ✨
Coaching is now shaping leadership around the world, transforming workplaces at Microsoft, and driving social change through initiatives like Refugee JumpStart Coaching and the Ignite Initiative aligned with the United Nations SDGs.
As someone deeply committed to leadership succession and transformation, I see coaching as the bridge between potential and performance — between intention and impact. And this is also shared by many of my anchor clients who are investing significantly in supporting their most senior leaders with transition support.
ICF’s bold move to define ethical AI standards and elevate DEIB through new Member Resource Groups (including people with other abilities) shows that coaching is evolving with integrity
This isn’t just a report. It’s a blueprint for the future of human-centered leadership
If you’re a coach, leader, or changemaker — this is your invitation to lean in.
Let’s continue to empower change and inspire futures.
But don't take my word for it. Take it from a recent CEO coaching client of mine:
“I have had the privilege of collaborating with Navid as my executive transition coach during a pivotal phase of my career. His expertise in executive transitions has been instrumental in navigating the complexities of my role, particularly as I faced the challenges of leading a regionally distributed and diverse team and aligning our strategic objectives with the broader goals of the organization. Navid's tailored approach allowed me to address immediate challenges while also focusing on long-term leadership development. His insights into stakeholder management and decision-making have helped me to foster stronger relationships within my leadership team and across the organization."
#Coaching #ExecutiveCoaching #MasteringExecutiveTransitions #RaisingTheBar
About Navid Nazemian
Ranked as the world’s #1 Executive Coach by CEO Today for the 3rd year running, I use interventions that are designed to overcome obstacles quickly. Over the last 2 decades, I have helped hundreds of executives successfully eliminate unproductive thinking and solve their toughest, most complex challenges. In return, they have supported their organisations to build world-class cultures primed to create new markets, accelerate performance, increase productivity, and develop game-changing value propositions. 5 more ways to connect with me and my work:
- For more articles, tips, and insights, connect with me on LinkedIn
- Make sure you never miss an issue of my Newsletter by hitting the "Subscribe" button
- Ring the bell on my LinkedIn profile to be notified every time I share my top tips
- Reach out to me directly at hello@masteringexecutivetransitions.com if you have a need for coaching, keynote speaking or would like to place a bulk book order for your leaders
- Buy my international best-selling book ‚Mastering Executive Transitions: The Definitive Guide‘
Marshall Goldsmith says it‘s „The ultimate guide to executive transitions to help leaders achieve their highest potential.“
Prof. Dave Ulrich names it „The compendium book on transitions, a critical topic in these days of uncertainty & change.“
Dr. Hannes Ametsreiter says it „provides brilliant insights on what makes successful careers.“
What's Next? Stay tuned for upcoming newsletter editions where I'll be sharing fresh and actionable insights about the world of leadership. I really would love for you to join this conversation! Do let me know what you make of this newsletter edition.
Warm wishes,
Navid
