“My entire career has been focused on doing good in the world, through reporting the news, public service or advocacy work. Through coaching, I strive to help my clients do good in the world, as well.”
Alan Heymann is an expert at leading complex teams in highly visible organizations. With degrees in journalism and law, he has spent his career at the intersection of communications and public policy. In various leadership roles, he frequently found that people sought out his mentorship and coaching when struggling with effective communication and considering the impact of change on their teams. Then, inspired by a career transformation brought about with the support of an executive coach, Alan decided to formally become a coach himself.
As a coach, Alan works with executives in government, nonprofits, communications, higher education and the legal field. He specializes in leadership presence and presentation skills, strategic thinking, delegation and time management. His clients find it immensely helpful that Alan understands these challenges because of his own professional experience, and they appreciate that he understands the nuances of their sectors. His calm, reassuring manner and warm presence, along with decades of active listening practice, help leaders create space for the growth they need to be most effective.
Alan is passionate about working with leaders who want to tap into their creativity through words and images to inspire positive change in society. He is an expert at coaching through transitions—such as the transition from individual contributor to leader, the transition into a larger and more complex role or the transition into a different career.
Experience
Founded Blue Drop, DC Water’s spinoff nonprofit organization
Former vice president of communications for the Humane Society of the United States Served as chief of external affairs at DC Water, where he expanded the Authority’s government relations efforts
Held various roles in the Government of D.C., including agency public information officer and legislative staffer
Earlier in his career, Alan was a television reporter, producer and anchor in his native Illinois
Admitted to the Bar in Illinois and Washington, D.C.
Education, Training, and Certifications
- Executive Certificate in Leadership Coaching (Georgetown University)
- International Coach Federation Professional Certified Coach (PCC)
- J.D. (The George Washington University)
- B.S. in Journalism (Northwestern University)
- Certified Lego© Serious Play Facilitator
Assessment Certifications
The Leadership Circle Profile; Hogan Assessments; Designing Your Life
Personal
An avid runner, Alan has completed more than 30 half-marathons
Alan has followed a plant-based diet for more than two decades
Lives with his family outside of Washington, D.C.