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Anne deBruin Sample

CEO

Anne deBruin Sample is an experienced business and HR leader, and the CEO and owner of Navigate Forward. Anne has an enviable track record of leading business-building transformation and developing top talent. Anne has engaged her passion for helping leaders find new destinations during times of transition. As both a Corporate client and an individual client of Navigate Forward, she is a strong believer in the power and impact of transition coaching and leadership development.

In her early career Anne worked in a variety of HR and strategy roles for Whirlpool, PepsiCo, Walker Digital and Citibank. She has served as the Chief HR Officer for PepsiAmericas, SVP of Management and People Solutions at Thrivent Financial, and the Chief of People at Caribou Coffee and Bagels. Anne is a natural connector who is recognized for her ability to reframe problems, identify new solutions, manage through change and share her candid perspective. An engaging speaker, Anne is often asked to present at conferences, universities and professional events. She currently serves on Board of Directors of MyMeds, a MN-based startup that provides individuals with the digital health tools and real time data.

Giving back is a top priority for Anne, as it was for the Founders. As a firm, Navigate Forward has and will continue to contribute at least 4% of corporate revenue to charitable causes in our community. When our clients land at their destination they designate the charity of their choice so that we can celebrate by making a donation in their name. Anne is personally active in several local charities including the Light of Hope Home and School for Girls in Kenya, Opportunity International, and she has been a mentor for ACES.

Outside of work, you’re likely to find Anne on Lake Minnetonka or in the mountains of Colorado with her family, friends and dogs. She loves to be outside and is an avid skier, boater and hiker. She enjoys travel, entertaining and making connections.

Connecting with people and helping them navigate towards a new destination inspires and motivates Anne. She shares her passion with clients, consultants and peers – always with the goal of helping people lead more fulfilling lives.

Articles by Anne

Executives In Silhouette Meeting Around A Boardroom Table In A Sunny Office With Many Windows And Blue Sky.

Interested in Board Service? Start Your Search Before You Retire

Landing a corporate board seat can take 12-18 months. The more current your experience, the more potential value you bring to a board.
Illustration With Balloons, 2022 Celebrating Our Strongest Year Ever

2022 Highlights From Navigate Forward

In our annual update, CEO Anne Sample reflects on her first four years running Navigate Forward with milestones from 2022 and exciting opportunities ahead for 2023.
Non-profit Leader With Clipboard Organizing Food Drive.

Ready For a Career Pivot? Consider Non-Profit Work

Whether it's a paid role, volunteer effort or board seat, non-profit work allows senior leaders to apply the talents, skills and expertise built during a corporate career to a meaningful cause.
Retired Man Leaning On Balcony Having Coffee

A Satisfying Corporate Career Doesn’t Have to End with Retirement

In this Kiplinger article, Anne Sample shares five strategies for executives to retire happily and with purpose.
Fast Company Magazine Logo

7 Ways Retired Execs Can Find Purpose After the C-Suite

In this Fast Company article, CEO Anne Sample shows how thoughtful legacy planning can lead to a fulfilling and balanced next chapter.
Anne Sample, CEO

From HR Leader to Client to Navigate Forward CEO

Anne Sample's career trajectory serves as a Navigate Forward success story, demonstrating that finding your passion and purpose in the business world doesn’t always follow a straight line.
Row Of Colored Pencils With Smiling Faces

The 2-Minute Career Story Every Executive Jobseeker Needs

Learn how to craft a winning professional narrative in Anne Sample’s article for Talent Culture.
Anne Sample, CEO

2021 Highlights from Navigate Forward

Our business continues to thrive, thanks to an active labor market, hybrid delivery of services, and new offerings that serve senior leaders at multiple career stages.
What Executive Jobseekers And Employers Can Expect In 2022

What Executive Jobseekers and Employers Can Expect in 2022

Senior leaders and employers are experiencing fast landings, multiple offers and more emphasis on retained search.
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