Nicole Forward

Nicole Forward, Head of Coaching and Development

352-275-2848

Nicole Forward is RHR’s head of Coaching and Development. With over two decades of experience partnering with C-suite and senior executives and successfully aligning coaching and development solutions with business goals and talent strategy, she is a trusted partner in leadership transformation known for her practical applications and getting measurable results within the context of an organization’s unique environment. Recognized as a thought leader in the coaching and development industry, Nicole has deep experience that spans the technology, financial services, retail, manufacturing, nonprofit, professional services, and communications sectors.

Among the executive-level roles she’s held in Fortune 100 companies, Nicole established Netflix’s first executive coaching practice and revitalized the portfolio of executive leadership development offerings at T-Mobile and Citibank. She understands the pressures and challenges of being an internal executive firsthand, enabling her to approach clients with compassion and empathy. As a coach, she’s known for her deep listening skills and her keen ability to quickly identify themes and patterns, helping clients achieve transformative results. 

Nicole holds a master’s degree in human development from Colorado State University and a bachelor’s degree in communications from Pepperdine University. She completed her training in evidence-based coaching at Fielding Graduate University, resulting in ACC-level ICF certification. She is also a certified Hogan, MBTi, DiSC, and StrengthsFinder facilitator. Outside work, you’ll find Nicole hiking in the mountains, singing in a local community choir,  or planning her next adventure with her family. 

Focus Areas

  • Global Executive Leadership Development
  • Executive Coaching
  • Program Design and Delivery
  • Culture Building and Transformation
  • Team Development and Effectiveness
  • Talent Management and Development

Education

  • Colorado State University, master’s degree, human development
  • Pepperdine University, bachelor’s degree, communications
  • Fielding Graduate University, certificate in evidence-based coaching
  • ACC-level certified executive coach, ICF
  • Certified Hogan, MBTi, DiSC, and StrengthsFinder facilitator

Leadership philosophy
Leadership is about having deep curiosity, recognizing interconnectedness, and cultivating the capacity to navigate complexity with wisdom and purpose.

Passions
Somatics, spelunking, hiking, singing, writing, spirituality.