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Nick Horney
Founder, Agility Consulting (2001), Author: VUCA Masters: Developing Leadership Agility Fitness for the New World of Work (Psychologist and Retired Captain, Navy Special Operations)
Professional Background
Dr. Nick Horney, affectionately known as The Agility Doc, is a pioneer in the field of agility consulting and training, having founded Agility Consulting and Training in 2001. With over three decades of extensive experience in change management and leadership development, his work has been recognized and respected by some of the foremost publications in the industry, including the People & Strategy Journal, Chief Learning Officer, and CIO Magazine. Dr. Horney has made significant contributions through innovative frameworks such as TALENT PORTFOLIO AGILITY, developed in partnership with the esteemed Center for Creative Leadership, among other notable initiatives like THE AGILE MODEL and VUCA MASTERS.
Before embarking on this entrepreneurial journey, Dr. Horney served as the Vice President of Client and Constituency Relations at the renowned Center for Creative Leadership. His change management expertise encompasses a solid background that also includes the establishment and oversight of the Coopers & Lybrand Change Management Practice. Throughout his distinguished career, he has had the privilege of working with a wide range of high-profile clients, such as Coca-Cola, Harrah’s Entertainment, Hanesbrands, Dell, Lenovo, Siemens, and even the CIA. His strategic agility consultancy has played a crucial role in enhancing organizational effectiveness across numerous industries.
Education and Achievements
Dr. Horney holds an impressive academic background, having earned his Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from the University of South Florida. His educational journey also includes a Master of Arts in Counseling from the University of North Florida and a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Relations and Naval Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. This robust educational foundation has empowered him to make significant strides in psychology, organizational behavior, and effective leadership.
In addition to his consulting work, Dr. Horney is a published author who has co-authored several influential works including FOCUSED, FAST & FLEXIBLE (2015), MANAGING CHANGE IN ORGANIZATIONS (PMI, 2013), and PROJECT CHANGE MANAGEMENT (McGraw-Hill, 2000). His insights on agility and change management have also been disseminated through various podcasts, magazines, and journals, further solidifying his position as a thought leader in dramatic transformations faced by organizations. One of his keynotes, LEADERSHIP AGILITY IN A VUCA WORLD, at the Business Agility 2017 event, showcased his ability to address the challenges posed by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity in today's business landscape.
Additionally, Dr. Horney’s earlier career was enriched by a notable tenure in the United States Navy, where he dedicated 23 years of service as a Special Operations Officer. Leading diving, submarine salvage, and explosive ordnance disposal teams, he honed invaluable skills in leadership, strategic decision-making, and crisis management. Nick retired from the Navy with the rank of Captain, underscoring his deep commitment to excellence and professionalism.
Notable Contributions
Dr. Horney’s entrepreneurial venture, Agility Consulting and Training, focuses on cultivating strategic agility within organizations while assisting leaders to navigate through change effectively. His methodologies have empowered businesses to improve their adaptability to the ever-changing marketplace, equipping them with the agility and resilience necessary to thrive. Furthermore, Dr. Horney is deeply involved with various professional associations, including the American Management Association, Canadian Management Centre, IBN International, and the Human Resource People and Strategy group, where he contributes his insights to ensure that organizational leaders remain informed about best practices in change management.
His extensive career achievements and expertise culminate in being recognized not just as a consultant but also as an influential speaker and author in the domains of organizational change and leadership agility. Dr. Horney's work continues to impact a diverse array of organizations, helping them to embrace a more agile mindset, ultimately fostering sustainable growth and innovation.
Achievements
- Founder of Agility Consulting and Training, 2001
- Innovator of several frameworks such as TALENT PORTFOLIO AGILITY, THE AGILE MODEL, and VUCA MASTERS
- Vice President of Client and Constituency Relations at the Center for Creative Leadership
- Significant change management experience exceeding 30 years
- Established Coopers & Lybrand Change Management Practice
- Author and co-author of several books and articles on change management
- Public speaker at renowned events including Business Agility 2017
- Retired US Navy Captain with leadership in special operations
- Engages with various professional organizations to share expertise
- Recognized by industry publications for contributions to change management and organizational effectiveness.
