Leadership Coaching vs Executive Coaching: What’s the Difference?

In a world of hybrid work, cultural complexity, and constant change, great leadership isn’t defined by a job title — it’s defined by how you show up. That’s why organisations and individuals often look to coaching when they’re ready to grow.

Two terms come up a lot: leadership coaching and executive coaching. They overlap, but they aren’t quite the same — and the distinction used here reflects what leading organisations and professional coaching bodies recognise in their development programmes.

Let’s break it down simply.

Leadership Coaching: Who You Are as a Leader

Leadership coaching strengthens the mindset, communication, and presence that allow you to inspire others — whether you’re leading a project, a team, or preparing for your next step.

This is where transformation truly begins.

Common focus areas:

• Confidence and self-leadership

• Clear, impactful communication in high-stakes moments

• Emotional intelligence, trust, and team connection

• Navigating conflict and change with composure

• Inspiring motivation and collaboration

Ideal for emerging and mid-level leaders, or established professionals who want to elevate their influence, leadership coaching helps you show up more intentionally and more powerfully — every day.

This is the heart of my work: empowering you to own your voice, lead with authenticity, and create the conditions where others thrive.

Executive Coaching: What You Deliver at the Top

Executive coaching supports leaders who already hold significant influence and visibility. It is more performance-driven, focusing on outcomes that shape the organisation.

Typical focus areas include:

• Strategic decision-making and influence

• Executive presence in board and C-suite environments

• Leading large-scale change and culture shifts

• Managing global complexity and stakeholder politics

It’s designed for senior leaders with broad accountability — or those transitioning into major roles where the stakes are high.

How I Support Leaders (at Every Level)

While both coaching types have value, I specialise in leadership coaching — because sustainable growth begins with who you are, not the title you hold.

My approach is especially suited to:

• Leaders in international environments

• Women stepping into greater impact and visibility

• High achievers who want more clarity, confidence, and courage

• Teams seeking stronger communication and collaboration

We work on the inside and the outside:

• Your beliefs → your presence

• Your communication → your influence

• Your confidence → your performance

• Your relationships → your results

Because when your leadership grows, everything around you grows too. Your growth translates into deeper impact — for you, your team, and your organisation. That’s the outcome that matters.

If you’re curious which coaching approach best supports your next step, let’s talk.

A short conversation can bring big clarity on where you’re going — and how you want to lead when you get there.

Book a complimentary call to explore what’s possible: coaching@audreyzander.com