Olu Burrell is always trying to understand what’s really going on. 

Not just what people are saying. But what they mean. What they’re not saying. 

And what’s getting in the way of moving forward.

That curiosity shapes how he works.

Olu is an executive coach and facilitator who helps leaders and teams work through the conversations most organizations avoid—the ones where alignment breaks down, perspectives clash, and progress stalls. He doesn’t rush to answers. He helps people think more clearly, listen more closely, and get to something real they can move forward with.

Over the course of his career, Olu has worked across government, nonprofit, and private sector organizations, including in senior leadership development roles within Washington, D.C.’s public sector. There, he coached and prepared high-potential leaders for cabinet-level positions, working at the center of some of the most complex and visible leadership challenges. 

That experience shows up in how he works with leaders today.

At Strategy Muse, Olu works closely with executive teams to navigate thorny alignment issues, helping leaders get out of their corners, understand each other, and build real commitment to move forward together. His sessions don’t just surface issues. They create the conditions for people to work through them.

He brings a steady presence, a sharp mind, and a genuine interest in people—qualities that tend to change the conversation.

Olu is a whole-hearted believer in the premise and power of story; indeed he views his clients as heroes and heroines working towards the fulfillment of their purpose and the crafting of their legend while he serves as the guide. You can call him Olu-Wan-Kenobi (and he might even answer to it).

Education

• Fielding Graduate University, PhD, Human Development (in progress)

• American University, M.S., Organization Development

• Fielding Graduate University, Graduate Certificate, Comprehensive Evidence-Based Coaching

• Howard University, B.A., English

Certifications

• Professional Certified Coach (PCC), International Coaching Federation

• Senior Practitioner, Global Individual Accreditation, European Mentoring & Coaching Council

• Advanced Change Leader, Kotter International