An objective point of view, deep listening, and experience to draw from
Mary Shaffran, MPA, PCC
A well-rounded executive leader, curious lifelong learner, and natural helper, Mary Shaffran offers her experience and insights to individuals and organizations seeking growth, outstanding results, and positive change.
Mary has combined learnings from the successes and challenges of her varied career, her love for listening to and encouraging others, and her desire to pay forward the investments others have made in her success into her current role as a leadership coach and business consultant.
Mary's professional contributions have advanced public health and fostered expansion of environmental protection, through a variety of roles in the private, nonprofit, and public sectors. Among her proudest accomplishments are those related to creating progress through strategic planning, improving the health of businesses and teams through organizational development and inspiring leadership, and fostering impact through creative and consistent growth practices.
Mary's education includes a Masters in Public Administration with a focus on Organizational Development from the University of Georgia, and a Bachelor of Arts focused on Political Science and Music from Converse College. Mary has pursued education in the field of coaching from George Mason University, completing its Leadership Coaching for Organization Well-Being program and going on to earn the Professional Certified Coach designation from the International Coaching Federation. Additionally, Mary has received leadership training from the Harvard Public Health Preparedness Leadership Initiative and the Regional Institute of Health and Environmental Leadership.
Mary recharges and enriches her life through singing professionally, spending time in nature, and connecting with family and friends.
An inspired approach
Mary’s surname, Shaffran, stems from the spice saffron. Saffron depends on human assistance to reproduce, grows best in full sunlight, and bears brilliantly-hued flowers before lending its golden hue to cuisine and textiles. Due to its labor-intensive harvesting process, saffron is the world’s most valuable spice.
Similarly, Mary knows that humans reach their highest potential when assisted by others. She provides an individualized and thoughtful approach, a deep knowledge of systems and best practices, and a sunny disposition to her clients. In collaboration with Mary, clients gain the cultivation and nourishment they need to blossom into their best selves and bring their great value to the world.
Musings on working with Mary
Mary is a coach and strategic advisor to us during one of the key moments in our company’s growth. As an advisor, she helps me make the right choices to grow the company, our culture, and our people. As an executive coach for our senior leaders, she empowers them to excel and bring their best to our shared experience. I am grateful for the time she spends with our team.
— Leone Atchison, Chief Executive of Lalaith Astor Technical Consulting House
Mary helped me understand my value and find the confidence to make an important move in my executive career. Her strengths-based approach and deep listening helped me think through issues and look at ideas from different perspectives. As I enter into a new phase in my career I am clear about who I am and the experience and capabilities I bring to the table.
— Melinda Pitchford, Director of Business Development and Capture at Eleven09 LLC
Mary’s confidence and competence to address your present needs in the present moment never cease to amaze me. Mary is focused on the whole soul of the executive, not just the metrics and boardroom successes. Her goal is to help you evolve into the best you for yourself and for your role. I am oh so grateful that I invested my time into learning from Mary's talents.
— Emeobong Martin, Lead Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Officer at Zero to Three
When I heard about the opportunity for coaching, I was skeptical. After sharing this with Mary she found a way to connect with me that was comfortable and relaxed. Through my coaching with her I've found ways to better express myself, and learned how to have the tough conversations with my staff and colleagues, which has helped me gain managerial courage. I have also recognized the value in acknowledging my career successes. I feel coaching with Mary has helped me become aware of my value in the workplace and ultimately has made me a more effective leader and overall better person as these skills translate to all aspects of my life.
— Heidi Albrecht, Assistant Director of Space Management, University of Nevada Las Vegas