Meet Joy
Leadership Development Coach | Consultant | Trainer | IFS Practioner | Certified Professional Coach
Joy Zalis Kiefer, PhD, is the owner and lead coach/trainer at JZK Coaching and Leadership Development, where she partners with individuals and organizations to cultivate values-based leadership, high-performing teams, and effective communication. With a deep commitment to leadership growth and professional development, Joy specializes in helping clients navigate transitions, achieve personal goals, build self-awareness, refine their leadership presence, and enhance communication and decision-making skills.
With over 20 years of experience in leadership education and coaching, Joy draws from a diverse background in executive leadership, higher education, and international development. She earned her PhD in Cultural Anthropology from Washington University in St. Louis and has devoted her career to understanding and fostering prosocial, effective leadership.
Joy’s expertise has been shaped by a breadth of leadership roles and global experiences—from serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Niger to conducting research on informal leadership and influence. She has worked in international development consulting and spent nearly two decades as a senior leader in higher education, serving as an Associate Dean and Director of Undergraduate Research at Washington University in St. Louis.
Throughout her career, Joy has advised and coached thousands of leaders, teams, and students, helping them clarify goals, enhance leadership effectiveness, and unlock their full potential. Joy believes that anyone can learn and grow with the right strategies and partnership with a committed coach.
“Joy is a compassionate listener and insightful thought-partner.” ~D.M. Transitions Coaching
I can help
Increase your self-awareness
Discover your strengths of character and experience the power of knowing, naming and using with intention, the best part of your essential self.
Build your confidence
Experience the confidence that comes with self-awareness, emotional intelligence and embodying your strengths.
Expand your impact
Learn how to leverage your strengths to maximize your impact on those you lead, serve and influence.