Where I’m
Coming From

Creative Industry Leader

I’ve spent more than 25 years of my career as a talent director and headhunter immersed in creative industries, from local boutique design studios to global creative powerhouse ad agencies.

Most recently, I helped grow Talent at W+K NY, doubling the agency in two years (during the pandemic), opened Australian-based FBI Talent in Europe as it became a global player, and was Head of Talent for 180 in Amsterdam and Los Angeles.

Global Footprint

I work across countries, industries, and time zones, comfortably able to help you sort through your next steps. I’ve worked and lived in Munich, Amsterdam, London, Paris, New York and Mexico. I know firsthand the life-changing and life-expanding experience of making major moves, both geographically and in one’s career.

I grew up in Germany, Austria, and the United States and am currently living in Mexico with my family. Bilingual in English and German, I speak Dutch and basic, yet improving, French and Spanish.

My Coaching
Approach and Background

Why I Coach

Growing up with immigrant parents in a military family meant a lot of moving and adjusting to ‘fit in’. My life was filled with so much rich culture and heritage, yet also many overarching 'shoulds' which often didn’t feel right for me. I wanted to live authentically — not performatively.

I knew I wanted to work with creative humans in a creative space and after years in Creative Talent Management + Recruiting, becoming a certified coach provided the platform and tools to help others tap into their power and values to curate
their path to ‘what next’ — and use their voice authentically.

Today, this is what I love to do. Living authentically and aligned with your values has the power to change your work and your life, and I’m here to support you on that journey.

How I Work

Credentials

• Master of Science in Social Administration, Case Western Reserve University (Ohio)

• Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Simmons University (Boston)

• Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC) through The Coaches Training Institute, a trained Organization and Relationship Systems Coach (ORSC)

• Hogan Assessments

• Certified Courageous Conversation About Race (CCAR) practitioner

• Accredited Emotional Intelligence Life Coach

• ACC member of the International Coach Federation (ICF)

We’ll work together to be thoughtful, open, and intentional about your next steps. I create a safe space for honesty and vulnerability so you can explore your thoughts, dreams and pressures (we all have them).

We’ll identify what you desire and what you know to be true about yourself, and we’ll narrow in on what you might be avoiding and even where you might be self-sabotaging. I’ll reflect that all back to you with kindness and action steps.

  • “Working with Astrid was beneficial in helping me understand how to approach not just my daily job, but my career as a part of my life. Specifically, it was a big unlock for me to understand the difference between succeeding at 'doing' and at 'being.' I stopped evaluating all opportunities with the frame ‘is this something I want to do?’ and instead began evaluating opportunities with the frame ‘is this bringing me closer to the person I want to be?”

    — Strategy Director, New York

  • “Astrid is an empathetic listener who helps you recognize and navigate the behaviors that are hindering your progress. I learned how to better advocate for the things that I needed in order to set myself up for not just success, but an authentic work experience where I feel truly comfortable.”

    — Executive Producer, New York 

  • “Astrid is not only an incredible career advisor, she's a motivator and the best at helping you focus on making your next move your best move. I was feeling quite stuck and unhappy when I decided to reach out to Astrid and after the first call I could immediately tell I made the right decision. From helping me approach new goals, reviewing and properly amplifying my skills and even giving me homework to make sure I'm working on the path to my future plans and never forgetting to lead with positivity.”

    — Head of BA (Business Administration), NYC

  • “Working with Astrid has been a transformative experience. During a critical transitional period, she not only guided my career growth but also took a holistic approach, considering my full well-being and life goals. Her insightful advice, unwavering support, and genuine care have been invaluable. Her deep understanding of the creative field I work in and willingness to connect me to people she knows was incredibly helpful. I am now more confident, focused, and aligned with my personal and professional aspirations, all thanks to Astrid. Highly recommend working with her!”

    Creative Director, New York

  • “Astrid's guidance and perspective can be the springboard for the big changes you want to see in your life.”

    — Creative Director, New York