Naki Osutei

Overview and Strengths

Naki Osutei is an accomplished and dynamic executive coach, strategist, and former senior banking executive with more than 20 years of experience across the private, public, and not-for profit sectors. She is known for her ability to guide leaders through complexity with clarity and empathy, grounded in a deep understanding of both business outcomes and human dynamics. Throughout her career, she has led teams of varying sizes and mandates, including cross functional groups and senior leadership teams, and has consistently shaped leadership at the organizational level.

Naki has developed and delivered high-impact leadership programs, including the creation of CivicAction’s DiverseCity Fellows, widely recognized as North America’s first civic MBA. Her program design work has influenced the leadership journeys of more than 5,000 individuals across multiple sectors, both directly and indirectly.

With experience as a senior executive, an HR business partner and strategist, and a centre of expertise leader in executive talent, Naki brings a rare 360-degree perspective to leadership development. She currently serves as Executive-in-Residence at the Rotman School of Management and was named one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women by the Women’s Executive Network. Naki’s coaching is particularly valuable to leaders who represent diverse perspectives within their organizations and are seeking to strengthen their presence, influence, and impact. She is especially sought after by those navigating systems not originally designed with them in mind and by organizations committed to evolving their definition of leadership.

Coaching Philosophy

Naki’s approach is rooted in the belief that presence and capability are equally essential to leadership. Drawing on the Co-Active coaching model, she supports leaders to sharpen their impact, lead with intention, and navigate ambiguity while staying grounded in who they are. With a strong bias toward action and reflection, she helps clients turn insight into tangible, meaningful, and sustainable outcomes.