McChrystal Group

No matter where you are in your career—whether you're just stepping into the Chief of Staff role or you’re a seasoned leader—investing in your development is the key to unlocking your full potential. The Chief of Staff role is one of the most dynamic and challenging in any organization. Chiefs operate at the intersection of leadership and execution, navigating both formal structures and informal networks while serving as trusted advisors to their Principals. Christopher Fussell provides actionable insights about what it takes to thrive from this unique vantage point in this #MGWeeklyWhiteboard. ???: https://lnkd.in/e6a83cpD As complex as this role may be, it also offers an unparalleled opportunity to drive meaningful impact. So, how are you preparing yourself to excel in this critical position? The Chief of Staff Leadership Retreat was created for leaders like you—those eager to elevate their capabilities, sharpen decision-making, and deepen their influence. This isn’t just another event; it’s an immersive experience that brings together Chiefs of Staff from diverse industries to share insights, tackle real-world challenges, and grow together. And here’s the truth: leadership is a journey, not a destination. Even the most experienced Chiefs of Staff will tell you that the demands of this role are constantly evolving. Whether you’re looking to fine-tune your skills, expand your network, or build a roadmap for your future, this retreat offers the perfect opportunity to recharge and refocus. ?? 2025 Spring Chief of Staff Leadership Retreat ?? Registration opens December 2. Secure your spot: https://bit.ly/Events_MGHQ

Crisis Management Begins Long Before the Crisis The most effective crisis management doesn’t start with the sirens blaring or headlines breaking—it begins long before the crisis strikes. At this year’s International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) Conference, McChrystal Group’s team, including Erin Sutton, David Livingston, Ed.D., Afiba Edwards, and Peggy Timmer, showcased how proactive strategies and systems make all the difference when leaders are thrust into the chaos of an emergency. Emergency managers operate on the front lines of crises, where their primary focus is to manage chaos and restore order. However, the lessons they bring to leadership transcend their field, providing powerful insights into resilience, adaptability, and preparation. In our IAEM presentations, we highlighted two critical case studies: ?? FDEM Establishes Nation’s 1st Leadership Program for Emergency Managers: A Testament to How Cultivating mid-level Leaders Prepares Organizations for the challenges of Tomorrow. ?? Managing Emergencies, Not Finances: A spotlight on the power of technology to free emergency managers to focus on their core mission. Drawing from these examples and insights from leaders like Judy Smith—whose expertise in crisis management was recently featured in our Leadership Insights—we emphasized how building systems and behaviors in advance enables leaders to respond effectively under pressure. These systems include: ?? Leadership Development: Programs like Florida’s Emergency Management Leadership Program equip mid-level leaders with the skills needed to adapt and excel in complex environments. ?? Digital Optimization: Leveraging AI and automation to streamline finance and procurement processes allows leaders to focus on decision-making and team coordination, not paperwork. ?? Relationship Building: Partnerships formed during conferences like IAEM foster collaboration and shared learning, creating networks that become invaluable when crises arise. Every leader, regardless of industry, can take inspiration from emergency managers. Their work illustrates that preparation—through training, technology, and trust-building—empowers organizations to navigate uncertainty and emerge stronger. Let’s continue learning, connecting, and building before the next challenge comes our way. True leadership in crisis starts well before the crisis itself. #CrisisManagement #LeadershipDevelopment #IAEM #TeamMcChrystal

?? COMING December 5 ?? The Chief of Staff Playbook: A Proven Framework for Excellence We’ve been privileged to working alongside some of the world’s most dynamic organizations—Fortune 500 companies, leading government agencies, and mission-critical teams around the globe. Over the years, we’ve partnered with these organizations to develop, support, and elevate Chiefs of Staff, empowering them to thrive in complex environments and drive real results. We continue to bring expertise directly to you. Be the First to Access the Playbook by subscribing to The Leader's Journal: https://lnkd.in/erN5aipa The 2024 Chief of Staff Playbook has been reimagined and builds on over a decade of experience helping organizations refine their leadership structures, optimize decision-making, and empower Chiefs of Staff to bridge the gap between strategy and execution. What’s inside? ?? Proven Frameworks: Tools to navigate blackline hierarchies and redline networks, helping you align your organization with clarity and purpose. ?? Practical Insights: Strategies to master decision-making, manage priorities, and build trust as a thought partner to your Principal. ?? Global Perspective: Lessons learned from supporting Chiefs of Staff across industries, from technology giants to government agencies tackling critical missions. ?? Actionable Exercises: From setting critical information requirements (CIRs) to creating operating rhythms, every chapter equips you with actionable steps to lead with confidence. This isn’t just a resource—it’s a roadmap for Chiefs who want to move beyond operational support and become indispensable leaders within their organizations. Whether you’re a Chief looking to refine your craft or an aspiring leader preparing to step into this transformative role, the Playbook is your guide to success. Sign up to "The Leader's Journal," and you won't miss the release of this pivotal resource for Chiefs: https://lnkd.in/erN5aipa.

What All Leaders Can Learn from Emergency Managers... This week, McChrystal Group had the privilege of presenting at the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) Conference. Our team—Erin Sutton, Afiba Edwards, David Livingston, Ed.D., and Peggy Timmers—shared valuable insights into crisis leadership and organizational resilience. The challenges faced by emergency managers may be unique, but the lessons they provide are universal: ? Decisive leadership in the face of uncertainty ?? Empowering teams to adapt and execute under pressure ? Building resilient systems to withstand the unexpected We highlighted case studies showcasing groundbreaking initiatives, including Florida Division of Emergency Management's pioneering Emergency Management Leadership Program and strategies for empowering emergency leaders to focus on managing crises, not finances with Virginia Department of Emergency Management. ?? FDEM Establishes Nation's 1st Leadership Program for Emergency Managers: https://lnkd.in/dmfBT26K ?? Case Study: Managing Emergencies, Not Finances: https://bit.ly/SPENDHub These are lessons every leader can carry forward, regardless of industry. We’re inspired by the dedication of emergency managers who lead with clarity, courage, and purpose in the most chaotic circumstances—and we’re proud to support and learn alongside them. #IAEM24 #CrisisLeadership #EmergencyManagement #LeadershipLessons #TeamMcChrystal

This November, we celebrate the work anniversaries of our incredible team members at McChrystal Group. Your commitment, innovation, and impact are the foundation of our success. Whether it’s guiding leaders through complex decisions, aligning teams for transformational change, or fostering stronger connections between people, processes, and technology, you all contribute to the mission of making organizations thrive. Thank you for your hard work, dedication, and the excellence you bring to our clients and each other. Here's to celebrating the milestones we've reached together and the journey ahead! #WorkAnniversary #TeamMcChrystal #LeadershipImpact

Stan McChrystal joined MPR Associates, Inc. to discuss how the Team of Teams? philosophy transforms organizations. We’ve seen firsthand how empowering teams with common purpose and empowered execution drives performance—even in the most complex environments. MPR’s commitment to #ChooseExcellence shines in their approach to implementing Team of Teams. By fostering trust and shared consciousness, they’re positioning their organization and their people for sustained success in today’s fast-paced world. We’re proud to support MPR on this journey and can’t wait to see what they accomplish next! To learn more about Team of Teams and how it redefines leadership, visit https://lnkd.in/eKurqE9Q.

?? Today at #IAEM2024! ?? Join us for a dynamic panel discussion on "Managing Crisis, Not Finances: How Technology Can Streamline Finance and Procurement" featuring Afiba Edwards, McChrystal Group's CIO, and Peggy Timmer, Senior Principal and project lead for the VDEM SPENDHub application. ?? Where: Broadmor Convention Center, Colorado Hall F ?? When: 2:15 PM MT Afiba and Peggy will showcase how we partnered with the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) to develop SPENDHub, a powerful tool that empowers emergency management leaders to focus on their mission—not the paperwork. Get a sneak peek of the case study: https://bit.ly/SPENDHub Don’t miss this chance to learn how technology can revolutionize crisis management. Thanks to Sikich for sponsoring this session! See you there! ?? #EmergencyManagement #CrisisResponse #IAEM2024 #TechnologyInLeadership

Tomorrow at #IAEM2024! David Livingston, Ed.D., and Erin Sutton from McChrystal Group will join Kevin Guthrie, Director of Florida Division of Emergency Management, to explore how comprehensive leader development can equip emergency managers to respond to an increasing array of complex crises. ?? When: November 20, 2024 | 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM ?? Where: The Broadmoor, Colorado Hall D The panel will highlight FDEM's Mid-Level Leadership Development Program and offer actionable strategies for cultivating resilient, forward-thinking leaders. As emergency management grapples with recruiting and retention challenges, sessions like this are critical to ensuring that EMs are ready to face tomorrow's crises. Join David, Erin, and Kevin for an inspiring discussion on leadership, resilience, and the future of emergency management. #McChrystalGroup

?? Today at #IAEM2024! ?? Join us for a dynamic panel discussion on "Managing Crisis, Not Finances: How Technology Can Streamline Finance and Procurement" featuring Afiba Edwards, McChrystal Group's CIO, and Peggy Timmer, Senior Principal and project lead for the VDEM SPENDHub application. ?? Where: Broadmor Convention Center, Colorado Hall F ?? When: 2:15 PM MT Afiba and Peggy will showcase how we partnered with the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) to develop SPENDHub, a powerful tool that empowers emergency management leaders to focus on their mission—not the paperwork. Get a sneak peek of the case study: https://bit.ly/SPENDHub Don’t miss this chance to learn how technology can revolutionize crisis management. Thanks to Sikich for sponsoring this session! See you there! ?? #EmergencyManagement #CrisisResponse #IAEM2024 #TechnologyInLeadership

Fall into Friday with Leadership Insights! As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, it’s the perfect time to reflect, reset, and grow. We’ve gathered three insights to help you end the week stronger than spiked cider: ??Navigating Complexity: Leadership Learnings from Chiefs of Staff Just like the shifting seasons, organizations face constant change. Discover how Chiefs of Staff navigate complexity and balance priorities to keep their teams aligned and thriving. Link: https://lnkd.in/ef5E4vSa ??Implementing the Leading Through Crisis Framework Fall brings both beauty and storms. With this actionable framework, learn how to lead through turbulent times so you’re ready for whatever challenges come your way. Link: https://lnkd.in/ebKwyGK4 ??Leadership Behaviors Needed in a Complex World Like trees shedding their leaves, great leaders know when to let go of the unnecessary to focus on what truly matters. Explore the behaviors that drive success in complexity. Link: https://lnkd.in/e_w62xWT ?? What’s falling into place for you this week? Share your thoughts below and embrace the season of growth and transformation. Happy Fri-Yay! ??