
Laura OBrien
5.0
(9)
Studied at Bridgewater College
Works at Breakout Consulting LLC
Successful clients at
Not currently taking new clients
About Laura
I became a coach because I’m passionate about helping individuals unlock their potential and succeed on their own terms. My experience in leading talent and education initiatives gave me firsthand exposure to the power of strategic, personalized development. I was also driven by a desire to have greater reach and impact, working with a diverse range of clients across various sectors and experiences. Since my work is industry-agnostic, coaching allows me to engage with a wide variety of professionals. As an avid learner, I enjoy the professional and personal challenges that push me out of my comfort zone, allowing me to "practice what I preach." This approach keeps my skills sharp and ensures I’m constantly evolving. While my previous work provides a solid foundation, coaching offers me the chance to grow and adapt, which ultimately enriches both my practice and the results I help my clients achieve. Accreditations: Associate Certified Coach (ACC), International Coaching Federation | Executive Career and Leadership Coach (CEC) | Neuro-Linguistic Programming Coach (CNLPC) Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR), HR Certification Institute | Society for Human Resource Management Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP)
Why do I coach?
I thrive working with professionals across a wide range of industries, particularly in finance, education, entertainment, event management, and marketing. I find it especially rewarding to partner with leaders navigating significant transitions—whether that’s scaling their teams, driving organizational change, or refining their leadership skills to create greater impact. Clients who are invested in personal and professional development, and are open to transformative feedback and growth, align well with my coaching style. I also enjoy guiding new graduates and mid-career professionals just starting out or stepping into leadership roles; who need support developing strategic thinking, managing teams, and boosting their executive presence. My philosophy centers on leveraging individual and team strengths rather than focusing solely on areas for improvement, and I love working with leaders who embrace this perspective.
Work Experience

President, Founder and Principal
Breakout Consulting LLC
June 2023 - Present
At Breakout Consulting, we specialize in unlocking the unique strengths and talents of individuals and teams, catalyzing their growth potential. Our integrated approach combines personalized career, talent, and educational guidance. Through expert coaching and training we empower both individuals and organizations to realize their fullest potential. See website- www.breakoutconsultingllc.com

Head of Global Education, New York Life Investments
New York Life Insurance
January 2018 - May 2023
Hiring Manager
Spearheaded and led the Global Education function, establishing a distinctive internal team brand and introducing innovative learning strategies that met company objectives while addressing critical talent development needs. Pioneered and revamped business-specific training and early career programming. Designed and successfully delivered a range of programs for global audiences, including Sales Enablement and Technology training and Client Education workshops.

Head of Learning & Talent, Americas
TP ICAP Group plc
June 2015 - November 2017
Hiring Manager
Led the development of a learning and talent framework, driving organizational change and fostering a culture of continuous learning and career development. Championed diversity and inclusion initiatives, including the creation and successful re-branding of The Women's Network for the Americas. Implemented impactful learning programs based on needs assessments, enhancing employee engagement and development.

Head of Organizational Effectiveness-Americas | Markets & Int. Banking
Royal Bank of Scotland
July 2011 - June 2014
Hiring Manager
Drove diversity training initiatives and unconscious bias awareness programs, fostering an inclusive team culture. Spearheaded organizational effectiveness strategies to optimize performance and efficiency.

Human Resources Director
Vertrue
September 2005 - June 2011
Hiring Manager
Led human resources initiatives, including executive coaching, inclusive team leadership programs, Internship Programming and organizational development strategies.
Education

Bridgewater College
Masters of Education, Counseling Education

Adelphi University
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology
9 Reviews
Overall Rating
5.0
Laura has helped clients get into these companies: