Driving Organizational Growth with Effective

As the Vice President of Global Talent Management at Sysco, Michael Fischer’s responsibilities encompass critical areas. He oversees leadership development, enhancing skills to drive Sysco’s business strategies and foster a positive organizational culture. He manages talent review, assessment, change management, and succession planning for capable leaders. He supervises the performance management process, aiding employees in understanding their roles and accessing growth opportunities. To support individual and team growth, he empowers them to fulfill their potential and build careers at Sysco.

What challenges and trends impact the executive coaching space recently?

From an executive coaching perspective, a significant challenge is the need for leaders to excel in a VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous) environment. This unpredictable setting demands distinct leadership capabilities from those required 5 to 10 years ago. Executive coaching is crucial for developing these skills oneon-one, fostering vulnerability and progress

Budget constraints pose an issue as companies aim to democratize coaching and make it accessible to more individuals. The post-COVID macroeconomic environment’s tighter budgets necessitate cost-effective coaching solutions. Today’s leaders must have more empathy, diversity understanding, and the ability to create inclusive, safe spaces. Executive coaching becomes even more valuable in cultivating these needed qualities and skills.

How do you envision the future of the space amidst transformations and disruptions?                                  

Executive coaching is undergoing a renaissance in companies, presenting a remarkable opportunity. As organizations recognize skilled leadership’s significance, coaching becomes a potent solution. Technology expands coaching’s reach beyond top executives. AI tools combined with expert coaches provide extensive feedback and coaching resources, transforming leadership development, career growth, and retention. While technology won’t replace coaches, it will revolutionize coaching’s utilization, creating an AI-powered future with boundless potential.

“Companies must occasionally welcome executive coaches to share information about the company’s direction and strategy as they can become a significant asset in retaining talent.”

What technological elements and leadership strategies guide your team?

 Talent mobility is crucial. In the competitive landscape, retaining skilled employees is vital. Talent mobility, with platforms like Sysco gigs, enables skill development. AI matches employees and leaders for optimal workforce utilization. We follow the 70-20-10 coaching principle, focusing on experiences, coaching, and formal training. Mentor-mentee matches globally ensure continuous employee support. Building an infrastructure promoting talent mobility positions companies for success and satisfaction.

Advice for peers in the field?

 Foster communication between companies, coaches, and teams. Coaches can be valuable in talent retention. Embrace AI and technology; they enhance work efficiently. Learning about AI enables leveraging its benefits and improving performance.