About KMZ CONSULTING GROUP

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My name is Katherine Ruger and I founded KMZ Consulting Group to support individuals, teams, and institutions navigating moments of change, challenge, or opportunity. Whether through coaching, facilitation, or strategy consulting, my work centers on helping people think clearly, act with purpose, and lead with integrity — especially in complex systems like higher education and healthcare.

With over 20 years of leadership experience in higher education and healthcare, I’ve coached many professionals and consulted with organizations locally and internationally. My work includes:

• Delivering keynotes and workshops on leadership, change, building strategic alignment, and culture
• Facilitating leadership retreats and strategic planning sessions for executive teams
• Guiding strategic planning and culture transformation efforts
• Designing and leading multi-session leadership development institutes for faculty, staff, and administrators
• Partnering with institutions through local and international consulting engagements focused on change, growth, and alignment
• Coaching both individual leaders and leadership teams— from new managers to seasoned executives— as they navigate complexity with clarity and courage.

As a credentialed coach (ICF), educator, and strategist, I bring expertise in organizational development and human-centered leadership. My approach blends systems thinking, honest reflection, and practical action. I’m drawn to work that helps people reconnect to what matters most — and move toward it with confidence.

Outside of my work, I’m a trail runner, aspiring rower, and hiker — drawn to movement, momentum, and the clarity that comes from being outdoors. That spirit of exploration is woven into my coaching and consulting — helping clients map their path forward, navigate unknown terrain, and find their footing through challenge or change. Whether climbing toward a bold new vision or finding stability in rocky conditions, I aim to serve as a thoughtful guide along the way.

I hold a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership from Pepperdine University, a Master’s in Counseling with a concentration in Sport and Exercise Psychology from Wayne State University, and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Northwood University. I am credentialed through the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and certified in both the Leadership Circle Profile and Conflict Dynamics Profile. I also completed Brown University’s ACT Leadership and Performance Coaching programs. My experience in senior academic leadership roles strengthens my appreciation of the complex, evolving challenges that academic and healthcare leaders navigate every day.

KMZ Consulting Group isn’t just about solving problems. It’s about creating space to think boldly, act wisely, and lead well.