Michelle
Winklaar
Senior Associate
Michelle Winklaar is a certified coach, facilitator, and leadership thought partner that brings a uniquely broad and dynamic career experience to her client relationships. Michelle has over 25 years of experience in public and private sector senior leadership roles. She aims to help leaders achieve greater self-awareness, gain clarity and develop actionable steps towards reaching personal and professional goals.
Background & Experience
As a former two-term Minister of Economy and Education for the island of Aruba, and former CEO of Digicel Aruba, Michelle’s experiences provide a unique and effective approach for her clients.
Michelle holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from York University, and a Master’s degree in Leadership from the Lang School of Business and Economics at the University of Guelph. Michelle is an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) with the International Coaching Federation and is certified to administer Hogan Personality Assessments.
Michelle’s diverse professional experiences have been shaped by a deep desire to create a meaningful impact on people, organizations, and communities. Alongside her fulfilling work at Cadence, Michelle serves as a board member of The Jean Tweed Centre for Women & their families and Team Unbreakable, a youth physical and mental health organization.
Coaching Approach
Michelle takes a holistic approach when it comes to coaching. By recognizing the complex nature of our personal and professional lives, Michelle works with clients to stretch their thinking beyond their current beliefs and assumptions to craft actionable steps that lead to goal attainment. Her coaching approach is grounded in curiosity, empathy, a learning mindset, and contemplative practice.