My Story
I’m Kathleen Ochab, a proud mom of three boys and a 20+ year human resources professional with a passion for personal connection. Before founding Compass Consulting, my career journey led me to three different Fortune 500 companies—a collective experience that taught me to embrace the highs and lows of corporate culture. I faced every challenge (and there were many) with a smile on my face and my endless reservoir of optimism.
A near fatal accident in 2018 resulted in a brain injury and abruptly stopped me in my tracks. When I rejoined the world four months later, I did so with the keen realization that I wasn’t invincible. Life seemed too short to pursue jobs that didn’t align with my desire to motivate and inspire those around me.
Leaning in on my grit, gratitude and grace I followed my entrepreneurial dream of helping ambitious professionals realize their own potential. I discovered that hardship is one of the richest sources of strength and inspiration that propels us upwards.
Surmounting adversity gave me a deep sense of empathy, appreciation and grounding that enriches my approach to Leadership and Career Coaching.
I can’t wait to meet you,
“Calm your mind. You’re on no one’s journey but your own. Pace yourself and live your life the way you want to. Don’t let someone else’s idea of success make you feel like you’ve chosen the wrong path. Your journey may look different, but it’s yours.” – Anonymous
My Vision. My Career Journey.
When I was a full-time HR leader, I utilized Talent Management strategies for companies to ensure we attracted, developed and retained colleagues with highly effective and diverse skill sets. I take the same approach to individual coaching—mining the parts of you that empower you to flourish.
Here’s a quick rundown of my own winding professional path:
- Started my career at The Walt Disney World Resort, a 9-year tenure that opened up a myriad of opportunities and responsibilities in recruiting, training, and leadership development
- Pivoted to the Healthcare sector as I stepped into the Director of Human Resources role at Rotech Healthcare Inc., a nationwide home healthcare organization specializing in respiratory and oxygen care
- Doubled back to the hospitality industry when I joined Wyndham Vacation Ownership (WVO) as a Vice President of Human Resources; transitioned to a subsidiary as member of the Executive Leadership team supporting Wyndham Vacation Rentals, headquartered in northeast New Jersey
- Continued my hospitality experience as Head of People for one of the most respected restaurant groups in New York City, Washington DC and Chicago
- Most recently served as a Global Human Resources Transformation Leader for Lee Hecht Harrison within The Adecco Group, providing talent management aligned to a global growth strategy
Interested in working together?
A Natural Fit
Whether it’s hitting the slopes in the winter or taking a dip in a serene lake during the summer months, I have always gravitated to outdoor activities. I’ve competed in triathlons, finished numerous individual and relay running races, hiked sections of the Appalachian Trail, and coached my son’s mountain bike team. My mind is always clearest when immersed in the elements.
As an active participant and volunteer with the LoveYourBrain Foundation- a non-profit organization that improves the quality of life of people affected by traumatic brain injury and raises awareness about the importance of brain health- I’ve learned first-hand the powerful healing properties of nature. Whenever possible, I incorporate restorative time outdoors into my coaching practice.
