Meet Shannon

Shannon
Meet Shannon O'Toole

My Story

Hi, I’m Shannon — an executive leadership coach, talent strategist, and people person to my core.

When I was in college, I majored in Consumer Economics because it let me merge two passions: business and helping people. Anytime someone asked what I wanted to do after graduation, I’d say, “Something with people.” And that’s still true. People — their talents, motivations, growth, and stories — are what fuel me.

Over the past 20+ years, I’ve built a career around understanding how people work and how strong leadership helps them thrive. I started at General Mills, where I was quickly drawn into the art and science of attracting and retaining high-caliber talent. That curiosity led me to executive search during the dot-com boom — and eventually to a long tenure in the financial services industry.

As Chief Talent Officer at Buckingham Wealth Partners, I helped scale the firm from 75 to 500 employees and from 1 office to 40 nationwide. I redesigned performance management, built training programs, created career paths, and coached both internal teams and over 150 independent partner firms.

Today, I coach founders, executives, and new leaders as they navigate the complexities of team growth, feedback, hiring, succession, and leadership transitions. My coaching is clear, people-centered, and action-oriented. I’ll ask the right questions, challenge your thinking, and help you move forward with confidence. My approach is grounded in four essentials: clarity, feedback, kindness, and action — the same traits I believe define the best leaders.

That same level of passion you have for your business? I’m here to help you extend it to your team.

Shannon O'Toole Executive Leader
A Bit More About Me

I’m a mom of three sons who teach me something new every day (including TikTok trends I’m trying to keep up with). I’m most myself when I’m traveling — ideally somewhere where I can meet the locals, listen to stories, all within a cozy pub. My love of leadership started at Camp Miniwanca, where I earned a scholarship through the American Youth Foundation’s (AYF) Danforth “I Dare You” Award as a teenager. Today, I serve on the Board of Directors for the AYF and help facilitate their Summer Seminars for Women retreat — a full-circle moment I cherish.

When I’m not working, you can find me at yoga, stitching a needlepoint belt, or curled up in bed with a good book (yes, a real one with pages).

Within the entrepreneurial world, there’s a void — and it’s in talent consulting.

I’m uniquely suited to work with financial advisory firms like yours — because I understand what motivates you and drives you forward every day.

The question is, how can you and your firm retain a team of talent in a world where your employees need to feel a sense of purpose and connection to their job? That’s where I come in. I can provide:

  • The outlet you need to outsource your human resource (HR) function.
  • The expertise and insight you need to develop performance and feedback programs that not only help your employees feel heard, but also help them improve in their job.
  • The tools you need to gain alignment with your team.
  • The strategies you need to prepare your firm — and the next generation — for your eventual succession from the business.

My Philosophy at a Glance

My Vision

To help people discover and utilize their talents for the betterment of others — including the business, the larger team, and their clients.

My Mission

Coaching leaders to empower their teams to achieve success.

My Values

Both personally and professionally, I live with:
  • Kindness
  • Curiosity
  • Grace
  • Humility
  • Fun Facts About Me

    Shannon O'Toole