Influential Woman · Executive Coaching and Consulting
Michelle Hector
Chief Leadership Officer, Michelle Hector LLC
Oakland, CA 94607
Her Story
About Michelle
Dr. Michelle Hector II is an executive coach, leadership scholar, author, and educator with more than 25 years of experience spanning finance, technology, higher education, and organizational leadership. She is the Chief Leadership Officer of her executive coaching practice, where she helps individuals and organizations develop confident, authentic, and purpose-driven leaders. With a background in managing high-performing teams and leading large-scale operations, Dr. Hector has dedicated her career to helping professionals move from good to great and from great to exceptional through intentional leadership development.
Dr. Hector’s professional journey includes more than 14 years in the financial industry, where she advanced into senior leadership roles overseeing multiple banking teams and branches, followed by leadership positions in technology and consulting. She holds a Doctorate in Education in Organization and Leadership from the University of San Francisco, a Master of Business Administration, and a background in psychology. As a faculty member at the University of San Francisco and UC Berkeley Extension, she teaches courses focused on leadership, organizational change, women in business, power and influence, and strategic leadership skills, preparing the next generation of leaders to navigate complex workplace environments.
A passionate advocate for inclusive leadership and professional empowerment, Dr. Hector specializes in executive coaching, leadership development, financial education, change management, and career advancement. Her research on the experiences and resilience of Black women leaders became the foundation for her book, The Constant Outsider: Black Women at the Intersection of Bias and Brilliance. Through her coaching, teaching, speaking engagements, and community involvement, she continues to inspire professionals—particularly women and underrepresented leaders—to be bold, own their power, lead with integrity, and intentionally design their futures.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Michelle
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my mother, whose influence has guided and shaped my journey. As Dr. Michelle Hector II, named after my mom, I have always been inspired by her intentional support, affirmations, and belief in my potential. She taught me the importance of living with purpose and striving to become the best version of myself. My father’s unwavering support gave me the confidence to take risks, while surrounding myself with phenomenal people has continued to inspire my growth and success.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is that the worst someone can say is no. If you never try, the answer will always be no, but taking the chance creates opportunities for growth and success. I have also learned that there is no room where I do not belong. If a space does not exist for me, I have the power to create my own. I remind myself that I belong at the table, and I have the ability, confidence, and purpose to make my own place.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is to remain open to opportunities and always be prepared when they arise. Whether it is having your resume ready, being prepared for an important conversation, or recognizing a chance to grow, readiness can open doors. I also encourage women to find a mentor who can provide guidance and support, while also becoming mentors themselves to help empower and uplift the next generation.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is time. There is an incredible amount of support needed by so many people, and finding the capacity to meet those needs can be challenging. Another challenge is affordability and increasing awareness that resources such as executive coaching exist and can provide valuable guidance. I see an opportunity to help more people understand the impact of coaching and make these tools more accessible to those seeking growth and development.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are humility, authenticity, and integrity. I believe in being bold, intentional, and owning my power while remaining grounded in who I am. Leading with integrity, building trust, and being someone others can rely on are essential to how I approach relationships and leadership. I also believe in designing my future with purpose by creating a plan, taking intentional steps, and staying committed to the vision I have for myself.
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