After seven years with the same organization, Sheri Johnson wasn’t expecting to find herself back in the job market. But when an unexpected layoff prompted her next career chapter, she quickly realized that navigating today’s executive landscape would require more than updating her resume and applying for positions.
“It had been seven years since I’d looked for a job,” Sheri said. “I’d heard how challenging the market was, and I knew I wasn’t going to be able to do this alone.”
Seeking guidance, partnership, and a clear path forward, Sheri turned to Navigate Forward.
Looking for Executive-Level Support
Sheri was already familiar with Navigate Forward through industry connections and events. She had attended the Author’s Breakfast and previously reached out to learn more about board readiness. When it came time to navigate her own career transition, Navigate Forward’s executive focus stood out.
“I appreciated that Navigate Forward specializes in executive transitions,” she said. “The needs of senior leaders are different.”
As she explored the program, Sheri was impressed by the structured process and clear roadmap designed specifically for executives navigating change.
“I was really impressed with the process that Navigate Forward had laid out,” she said. “There was a clear path forward.”
That structure gave Sheri confidence at a time when uncertainty could have easily become overwhelming.
From Endless Possibilities to Focused Direction
Like many accomplished leaders, Sheri had developed a broad set of experiences and skills throughout her career. While that versatility had been a strength, it initially made it difficult to determine what she wanted next.
“When I first started looking at jobs, I felt like I could do anything,” she said. “I could do that role. I could do that role. I could do that role. I didn’t have any focus.”
Working alongside Navigate Forward Executive Consultant Bunny Robinson, Sheri began a process of reflection and discovery that helped her identify what truly mattered in her next chapter. Through guided exercises, thoughtful conversations, and strategic coaching, she gained clarity around her leadership identity, strengths, and goals.
“The biggest thing I took away from the process was clarity around who I am and what I was looking for,” Sheri said. “Bunny made me think about things differently.”
Rather than pursuing every opportunity that seemed interesting, Sheri learned to focus her search on roles that aligned with her strengths and aspirations.
Identifying What Makes a Leader Stand Out
One of Sheri’s most impactful breakthroughs came from understanding her differentiators. Like many executives, she initially viewed some of her strongest capabilities as commonplace because they came naturally to her.
“Sometimes I think everybody has the same strengths I do,” she said. “Having someone point out that those things are actually differentiators was incredibly valuable.”
One example was her ability to balance strategic vision with operational execution.
“I’m a big-picture vision person, but I also understand the details and can implement a plan,” she explained. “Often people are one or the other.”
Recognizing that unique combination helped Sheri better articulate the value she brings as a leader.
“It wasn’t just about listing everything I’ve done,” she said. “It was about understanding what makes me different.”
That shift in perspective became an important part of how she approached networking conversations, interviews, and ultimately her search for the right opportunity.
Structure with Flexibility
During her transition, Sheri also experienced health challenges that required her to temporarily slow down. She appreciated that Navigate Forward’s process provided accountability without feeling rigid.
“There wasn’t an expectation that because it was week seven, I needed to accomplish ten specific things,” she said. “There was encouragement to keep moving forward and do what I could, but it was also flexible.”
For Sheri, that balance between structure and personalization was invaluable.
“Navigate Forward has a process, but it’s also customized to the individual,” she said.
She also valued being paired with a consultant whose style and approach aligned with her needs.
“It felt like they really took the time to match the right consultant with the right person,” she said. “Bunny was exactly the right fit for me.”
An Investment in More Than a Job
Today, Sheri is bringing her leadership experience and relationship-building expertise to her role as Director of Partnership Success. While securing a new position was certainly an important milestone, she believes the greatest value of the experience extends well beyond landing a job.
“It’s not an insignificant investment,” Sheri said. “But I looked at it as an investment in myself.”
The self-awareness, focus, and confidence she gained throughout the process continue to serve her as she settles into her new role and considers future opportunities.
“Getting focused on who I am and what I bring to the table is going to serve me well beyond this one job,” she said.
Advice for Executives Facing What’s Next
For leaders navigating uncertainty, Sheri encourages maintaining an open mind and embracing possibilities that may not have been part of the original plan.
“Don’t get stuck in what you’ve always done or what you think you know,” she said. “Especially if you’ve been out of the market for a while. A lot changes.”
She also encourages executives to be honest about their circumstances and willing to ask for support.
“Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to tell your story,” she said. “There are so many people who want to help.”
For Sheri, being open to guidance and partnership made all the difference. What began as an unexpected career transition became an opportunity to gain clarity, sharpen her focus, and move forward with renewed confidence in both her strengths and her future.
Is a change in your future? Learn how Navigate Forward helps executive leaders navigate what’s next, and connect with us to start your journey.
