Irene Darbinyan.

The Inspiration

I’ve had several inspirations for becoming an executive coach and creating this company, some more vulnerable to share than others. I'd love to share them with you when we have a chance to meet.

However, the most significant factor isn't a single "thing"; it's a collective of "who's." I've been fortunate to have had incredible bosses, mentors, and coaches who've played pivotal roles in shaping my path. Their guidance and unwavering belief in my potential ignited my passion to become a coach myself.

I believe that each of us possesses the raw material to achieve our greatest aspirations. Yet, with the right people by our side, we're emboldened and empowered to reach greater heights.

That’s what our company name and logo represent: the unbounded growth potential that emerges when great minds get together.

Addressing an Outdated View

A commonly held perception is that, to provide proper guidance, your executive coach should have a career background and leadership level very similar to yours. Having a coach who has been in your shoes and can share exactly what worked for them may have its advantages. It also carries the risk of limiting the breadth of potential possibilities for you.

Instead, consider how possibilities expand when you partner with a coach who is skilled at creating psychological safety, asking though-provoking questions and delivering candid, impartial perspectives. Similar career experience, in this scenario, is just an added bonus.

I create conditions that enable you to access your innate wisdom and determine the actions resonate best with you. This type of partnership fosters a very different level of innovation and growth.

Professional Background

I’ve had a successful 12-year career in financial services with a leading global organization. In my most recent leadership role, I served as a strategic advisor to senior executives, optimizing decision-making processes and ensuring the seamless execution of high-level strategies.

This experience has provided me with a unique perspective on leadership strategies, complex organizational dynamics, and the nuanced challenges faced by senior leaders. Through deep involvement in strategic functions, I have gained expertise in effective business planning processes, governance models, and communication frameworks.

After founding AFI Consulting LLC in 2022, I have worked with smaller organizations, advising leaders and entrepreneurs in these areas.

This experience of being a trusted advisor and confidant to executives has equipped me with the tools to guide my coaching clients through their own leadership journeys.

Academic Background

I am a Certified Executive Coach through the Berkeley Executive Coaching Institute (BECI) at UC Berkeley’s Haas Business School, where I received my coaching training. I am a member of the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and will qualify for the ICF Associate Certified Coach (ACC) credential later this year.

My academic achievements include a Certificate in Leadership Foundations from Harvard Business Publishing and a Certified Project Manager (CPM) designation from Stanford University. I hold a BS in Business Administration from California State University, Northridge.

Happiness Pursuits

I love to volunteer my time with non-profits that align with my deep desire to create opportunities for others to flourish. I regularly offer pro-bono coaching services to individuals who might not otherwise have access to the transformative benefits of coaching.

I consider myself a lifelong student and genuinely enjoy spending time expanding my knowledge in psychology and neuroscience.

I find pleasure in traveling and exploring new culinary delights. But my absolute favorite activity? I like to call it,“chasing new horizons.”

Ready to expand yours?