John knows what it means to face the challenges of leadership and produce real results under extremely difficult conditions. Beginning in 1990, he invested 8 years in the future of a nation struggling to overcome a tragic history of genocide, racism and anarchy. What emerged was Cornerstone Leadership Academy – a comprehensive boarding school community for young adults focusing on leadership, character, spiritual and intellectual development. As co-founder and Director of the Academy, John and his family lived on-site for 8 years and dealt with the challenges of turning a revolutionary vision into a reality in the midst of racial and tribal tensions, scarce resources, and numerous physical hardships.

In 1999, John met Cindy Zook, an experienced Organization Development practitioner, who gave him an opportunity to learn from her as an Associate, and eventually Senior Consultant.

Beginning 20 years ago with the Excellence in Government (EIG) Fellows Program, John has supported hundreds of rising leaders from nearly every federal agency in expanding their leadership capacity. He has provided engaging, challenging Leadership Development programs for the US Army, NASA, CMS, and other clients.

John has consulted with a broad range of federal, private sector and non-profit organizations over the past 20 years, conducting hundreds of planning, team building and training workshops ranging from large conferences (200+) to small intact teams. He is particularly adept at adapting the approach to fit his client’s needs and culture. 

John brings his diverse experiences to bear in working with organizations and individuals, helping them establish strategic and business plans, build strong teams, and fully develop their leadership capacity. He loves to help clients tackle the “real work” that needs to be done – whether laying out business plans, establishing operating agreements, or identifying specific leadership challenges to overcome – and use that engagement to strengthen the team. 

His strengths include a unique ability to quickly connect with a broad range of people of diverse styles and backgrounds, creativity in tailoring a session to the particular needs and style of the group, and tremendous flexibility that allows him to make real-time adjustments to ensure the right work is being done. While John naturally builds strong connections with his clients, he is committed to pushing them to get real results. 

John and his wife Margaret, from Sydney, Australia, have four children and reside in Ashburn, Virginia. He has been actively involved with the Civil Air Patrol (Air Force Auxiliary), the Loudoun County Animal Shelter, the Honor Flight Network (bringing Veterans to DC) and does pro-bono work with several other community organizations.