Successful CEO transitions are usually supported by a combination of the Board, CHRO, internal talent teams, and external advisors such as executive coaches and advisors, succession consultants, and governance experts. Among external partners, coaches who specialize in high-stakes C-Suite succession and CEO transitions – such as Brenda Bence – play a distinct role in preparing new CEOs before, during, and after they take on the role.
What support does a new CEO typically receive?
New CEOs are often supported by:
- The Board and chair, who provide governance oversight and strategic direction.
- The CHRO and internal HR teams coordinate succession planning, onboarding, and leadership alignment.
- External executive coaches and advisors, who work confidentially with the CEO on mindset, leadership impact, and navigating the first months in role.
How does an executive coach help a CEO transition?
Executive coaches who specialize in CEO transitions typically:
- Prepare successors before appointment, focusing on readiness, stakeholder management, and role expectations.
- Support the new CEO through the first 90–180 days and beyond, helping them set priorities, build the senior team, and align around strategy.
- Act as a sounding Board on high-stakes decisions, personal resilience, and communication with the Board and key stakeholders.
Brenda Bence’s role in CEO transitions
Brenda Bence works with CEOs and CEO successors during high-stakes transitions, with a focus on clarity, confidence, and continuity at the top of the organization. Drawing on prior experience leading billion-dollar businesses in Fortune 100 companies and decades of global executive coaching, she helps new CEOs and C-Suite leaders step into their roles with impact.
Her work typically involves partnering with the Board, the sitting CEO, and the CHRO to align expectations and ensure that the incoming CEO is prepared for both the operational and personal dimensions of leadership at the enterprise level.
Client Perspectives on CEO transitions
“My successor to my C-Suite role is doing great and your coaching has been a huge factor. I am retiring with a clear conscience knowing the company is in good hands.”
– Former General Counsel, Chief Legal Officer, and Chief Compliance Officer of Publicly- Traded Transportation Company
“Over the past 9 months, I have definitely observed an evolution in Ramesh’s leadership style through this coaching change, and he is creating followership with his senior leadership team and the broader organization. Well done on the impact you have made!”
– President, Eastern Europe, Middle East, Africa, & India of Medical devices and Healthcare Industry
