J. Thompson B. Wyatt

Thompson serves AvoLead clients as an executive coach and an organizational consultant.

His experience in both applied and academic settings helps him create the most effective learning experience for each and every learner. His insight, focus on the individual, and approachable demeanor allow Thompson to deliver tough messages in a consistently gentle fashion that are effectively heard and received. His training as a clinical psychologist allows him to quickly identify the “what” and the “how” for his coaching clients. He can identify his clients’ internal issues/conflicts that limit performance, and work with them to craft practical solutions to swiftly address the challenges.

As a competitive swimmer, runner and tri-athlete, Thompson was first attracted to the coaching profession as a swim coach while still in his teens. His respect for the coaching process and ease with learners of all types is reflected in his elegant coaching style – the result of more than 25 years coaching and training executives from a variety of industry sectors, including healthcare, technology, professional athletics, government and financial services.

Thompson’s personal connection to the coaching experience adds to his agility in the classroom, as does his international client roster. From his work with executives in 20 countries, he brings a relevance and accessibility to any learning environment that immediately makes participants receptive to the learning experience.

In his 34-year career, Thompson has worked with executives and top management teams from professional services firms, government agencies and educational institutions, including the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University and the Johnson School of Business at Cornell University. His graduate and undergraduate teaching experience includes positions at University of New Hampshire, Penn State and Golden Gate University.

In addition to his work with AvoLead clients, Thompson provides consulting services for the Executive Development Group, serves as adjunct staff for the Center for Creative Leadership (CCL), and is a member of the Duke Corporate Education Academic Network. A licensed psychologist, Thompson also maintains a small clinical practice in Greensboro.

A 20-year advocate of experiential learning, Thompson is a senior trainer for CCL’s highly regarded Looking Glass Experience program and a certified facilitator for the Press Time® simulation. Thompson also facilitates the Leadership Development Program at CCL.

He is a graduate of Wake Forest University, has a Master’s degree from the University of New Hampshire, and holds a Ph.D. in Psychology from Penn State.

Thompson lives in Greensboro, NC, with his wife Kathryn and teenage daughter Katie. When he’s not working, he enjoys athletics, food and wine, literature, and travel.

What clients say about Thompson:

“Thompson is an excellent coach, very knowledgeable, approachable and open to questions. Very genuine. One of the best in the program.” –VP, Healthcare Organization

“Thompson is excellent at assessing people. I was surprised at how well he read me. He seemed to really care about me and took some extra time to individually discuss my results and how to bring about positive change.” –Sr. Partner, Financial Services Firm

“Thompson was wonderful. Educated, with strong relationship-building expertise. Facilitated meaningful feedback sessions and identified opportunities for personal and professional growth. Ensured we had tools and a plan to work with upon our return. Great experience – thank you very much!” – Sr. Manager, US Government

“Thompson was extremely perceptive and knew just the right thing to say in a manner that was acceptable.” –Middle Manager, Information Systems Company

“Thompson was personable, kind and genuine. He showed compassion while at the same time pointing out how I could have done things differently or how someone else might perceive things. He is an outstanding asset to your organization.” –CFO, Global Technology Firm

“Thompson demonstrates the highest level of both classroom and facilitation skills. His sensitivity and attention to the needs of each participant – including myself – were quite extraordinary.” –Sr. Manager, US Government