Mary Olson-Menzel

Mary Olson-Menzel is a renowned career expert, a seasoned executive coach, and the author of the national bestselling book, What Lights You Up? Illuminate Your Path and Take the Next Big Step in Your Career.

Mary has over 30 years of leadership across media, tech, healthcare, and many other industries globally.  She is the Founder and CEO of MVP Executive Development, a national leadership, coaching, and organizational management firm. Mary and her team work with both companies and individuals to unlock the potential that improves business performance and catalyzes growth. Her coaching methods bring a fresh lens to business and a perspective that nurtures teamwork and helps drive results through grace, empathy, and “Humane Leadership”.

She is an active member of the Marshall Goldsmith 100 Coaches Community, which brings together the world’s leading executive coaches, consultants, speakers, authors, iconic leaders, and entrepreneurs.

Before starting MVP Exec in 2012, Mary was a partner at two leading global executive search firms. She also spent a decade at The Tribune Company in Chicago as National Managing Director. This is where her understanding and expertise in recruiting and coaching were honed.

In her early years, Mary worked in both the tech space and media and entertainment where she started her career as a television reporter. Her innate curiosity and ability to connect with people paved the way for her life’s work: helping leaders at all levels channel what “lights them up” and inspires them into more fulfilling and successful personal and professional journeys.

Mary earned her MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Business and a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and Public Relations from Illinois State University.

“I love being a catalyst for positive change that helps people achieve their best work lives and helps organizations succeed by developing agile, empathetic and courageous leaders who inspire teams by their example.”