Even the strongest leadership teams run into conflict. But left unaddressed, that friction can slow execution, fray trust, and cloud decision-making.
In a recent Chief Executive Coaching webinar, former CEO and current CEO coach Bill Carroll walked through a real-world case of leadership conflict—and how structured coaching turned dysfunction into alignment.
The session didn’t just show what a coach can do. It offered tangible tools CEOs and senior leaders can apply themselves when tensions flare.
Conflict among execs isn’t unusual—but if not resolved thoughtfully, it can:
But here’s the good news: handled well, conflict becomes a lever, not a liability, for long-term competitiveness.
Here are concrete moves any CEO can take to begin addressing conflict within their team:
Avoid framing the issue around personalities. Instead, define the problem as a shared obstacle.
Ask: What’s broken in the system—not who’s to blame?
Get input from team members not directly involved. They often feel the ripple effects and can provide context others can’t see.
If you’re leading or moderating the conversation, encourage this structure:
This shifts conversations from venting to problem-solving.
Some leaders retreat. Others dominate. Recognize patterns like avoidance or control—and call them out gently when needed. Remind the team the goal is collaboration, not competition.
Refocus the team on what they’re collectively working toward. Misalignment often stems from forgotten shared objectives.
Use structured conversations to generate real agreements—not vague nods. Then follow up. Alignment only sticks when promises are visible and kept.
These steps are a great start. But some conflicts—especially when they’re chronic or emotionally charged—need a neutral third party to unlock resolution.
A coach can:
If a situation is lingering or escalating, bringing in a coach may save months of lost time and stalled momentum.
Ready to take the next step?
Conflict signals a system problem—and a chance to fix it. Whether you tackle it internally or bring in outside help, how your leadership team handles tension will define its ability to grow, adapt and lead.
Chief Executive Coaching partners with CEOs to accelerate growth, align teams, and navigate complex challenges with confidence.
Our network of veteran CEOs offers tailored coaching to help leaders unlock their full potential, drive strategic execution, and create lasting value. Meet more of our coaches.
Interested in Learning More?
If you’re curious about how executive coaching can benefit you and your organization, we invite you to schedule a complimentary discovery call.
It’s a no-commitment opportunity to discuss your goals and see how our coaches can help enhance your leadership and business success.
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Chief Executive Group exists to improve the performance of U.S. CEOs, senior executives and public-company directors, helping you grow your companies, build your communities and strengthen society. Learn more at chiefexecutivegroup.com.
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1:00 - 5:00 pm
Over 70% of Executives Surveyed Agree: Many Strategic Planning Efforts Lack Systematic Approach Tips for Enhancing Your Strategic Planning Process
Executives expressed frustration with their current strategic planning process. Issues include:
Steve Rutan and Denise Harrison have put together an afternoon workshop that will provide the tools you need to address these concerns. They have worked with hundreds of executives to develop a systematic approach that will enable your team to make better decisions during strategic planning. Steve and Denise will walk you through exercises for prioritizing your lists and steps that will reset and reinvigorate your process. This will be a hands-on workshop that will enable you to think about your business as you use the tools that are being presented. If you are ready for a Strategic Planning tune-up, select this workshop in your registration form. The additional fee of $695 will be added to your total.
2:00 - 5:00 pm
Female leaders face the same issues all leaders do, but they often face additional challenges too. In this peer session, we will facilitate a discussion of best practices and how to overcome common barriers to help women leaders be more effective within and outside their organizations.
Limited space available.
10:30 - 5:00 pm
General’s Retreat at Hermitage Golf Course
Sponsored by UBS
General’s Retreat, built in 1986 with architect Gary Roger Baird, has been voted the “Best Golf Course in Nashville” and is a “must play” when visiting the Nashville, Tennessee area. With the beautiful setting along the Cumberland River, golfers of all capabilities will thoroughly enjoy the golf, scenery and hospitality.
The golf outing fee includes transportation to and from the hotel, greens/cart fees, use of practice facilities, and boxed lunch. The bus will leave the hotel at 10:30 am for a noon shotgun start and return to the hotel after the cocktail reception following the completion of the round.