Practical Leadership Coaching for Today’s Managers

Personalized coaching for new and emerging managers in government and nonprofit sectors who are often promoted for their  technical expertise into people management roles.


You are not alone

Whether you are leading a team for the first time or adjusting to greater leadership responsibility, you do not have to navigate the transition alone.

Becoming a leader requires
more than technical expertise.

The skills that make someone an effective technical professional are not always the same skills needed to lead people. New and emerging managers must learn how to delegate, communicate expectations, navigate conflict, make difficult decisions, and support the growth of others.

Our coaching creates a confidential and supportive space for managers to reflect, work through real challenges, and build the confidence and practical skills needed to lead effectively.


We are here for you

Approachable, confidential third-party support for the leadership challenges you don’t have to navigate alone.

Two Coaches. one personalized path forward.

When you join our coaching program, you will have the opportunity to work with one of our two experienced coaches. Alicia and Ari will collaborate together behind the scenes to understand your challenges, share perspectives, and ensure that the coaching support meets your needs. During your virtual sessions, your coach will help you clarify your goals and develop a practical plan to achieve them.

Your coaching schedule will be designed around your needs. Throughout the engagement, your coach will provide consistent, confidential, and supportive third-party coaching as new leadership challenges arise.

Routine Virtual Coaching
Regular virtual sessions give you a dedicated space to reflect, prepare, and work through current leadership situations.

A Neutral Third-Party Perspective
Receive confidential, impartial support outside your organization’s reporting structure.

Goal-Oriented Plan
Your coach will work with you to identify what you want to achieve by looking at your current situation, brainstorming options and choosing the best path forward to meet your goals.

Practical, Real-Time, Collaborative Guidance
Bring your current challenges and leave with clearer options, practical tools, and actionable next steps. Alicia and Ari bring complementary perspectives and work together throughout the entire coaching experience to meet your needs.


Meet Your Coaches

Alicia Kone

Professional Expertise: A former government manager with experience in organizational leadership, process improvement, decision-making, coaching, and facilitation. Alicia is also trained in Hogan leadership assessments, helping managers identify their strengths, potential challenges, and opportunities for growth.

Personality: Open, positive, down-to-earth, and approachable, Alicia creates a welcoming environment where clients feel comfortable discussing challenges honestly.

Coaching Style: Alicia combines a gentle, supportive approach with practical guidance, real-time resources, and goal accountability. She enjoys coaching people from diverse backgrounds and tailors her support to each client’s individual needs.

Ariana Wood 

Professional Expertise: An innovative leader with experience across the public and private sectors, Ari is an accomplished coach, facilitator, and trainer. Her expertise includes leadership and team development, process improvement, change management, and the practical application of the Enneagram assessment.

Personality: Thoughtful, perceptive, and deeply attentive, Ari creates a supportive environment where clients feel heard and encouraged to explore new perspectives.

Coaching Style: Ari listens deeply, asks powerful questions, and helps clients translate insights into practical action. Her coaching enables managers to better understand their leadership patterns, communication styles, and relationships so they can lead with greater clarity, confidence, and effectiveness.


What leaders are saying

I feel confident recommending the Koné team for your Lean improvement and leadership development efforts.
— Clarisa, San Mateo County Human Services Agency
The team at Koné Consulting has created lasting value for us. They’re easy to work with, adaptable, and fun.
— Susan, Boulder County Housing and Human Services
When we partner with Koné Consulting on projects, we trust and know that they are digging in on the important work that we need completed but that we’re often prevented from doing due to life’s day to day demands.
— Stacy, Center on Budget and Policy Priorities

Let’s Start a Conversation!

Leadership transitions can be complex, but you do not have to navigate them alone.

Tell us where you are in your leadership journey, what challenges you are facing, and what kind of support would be most helpful. We would be glad to explore whether this coaching experience is the right fit for you or your organization.

Koné Consulting is an approved vendor under Washington State Department of Enterprise Services (DES) Master Contract No. 01620 for Business Consulting Services: Organizational Development and Change Management, valid through February 29, 2028. Washington State agencies, public institutions of higher education, and other eligible MCUA entities may purchase our leadership coaching services through a purchase order or another approved contract vehicle.