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Meet Jay Hidalgo

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Meet Jay Hidalgo

For over a decade, Jay Hidalgo has focused his work on helping leaders and teams gain clarity, alignment, and forward momentum through the disciplined use of the StratOp process, LifePlan, and executive coaching. Rather than offering advice from a distance, Jay partners closely with leaders to facilitate conversations that help them see their business, their leadership, and their future with greater precision.

Through StratOp, Jay has guided leadership teams in defining where they are, clarifying where they’re going, and building practical, actionable plans that drive results. His work doesn’t end with planning; it extends into execution by helping teams stay aligned, accountable, and focused on what matters most. Alongside this, his LifePlan work brings the same level of intentionality to the personal side of leadership, helping individuals align their professional responsibilities with a deeper sense of purpose and direction.

As an executive coach, Jay works one-on-one and with leadership teams to strengthen decision-making, foster healthy team dynamics, and develop the kind of leadership presence that organizations depend on, especially in seasons of growth, uncertainty, or transition.

With over 35 years of business experience, Jay brings both practical insight and a steady, guiding presence to his clients. His experience spans a wide range of organizations, including Herman Miller, Michelin, Oracle, Ariba, NCR Corporation, Toshiba, Rubbermaid, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Haworth, and Pitney Bowes.

At the core of his work is a simple belief: leaders don’t need more information—they need clarity, structure, and a trusted partner to help them think well and move forward with confidence.

When he’s not serving clients, Jay enjoys time with his wife, Janice, and their family in West Michigan. You’ll often find him outdoors hiking, biking, and kayaking, or relaxing with a bourbon, a cigar, and good conversation.

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Articles Written by Jay

Going in Circles? Get Strategic Planning Help

Think your team might be stuck? A strategic planning facilitator can help you build real alignment and a plan that your team actually follows through on.

Read More about Going in Circles? Get Strategic Planning Help
EOS® Meeting Structure: Pros, Cons & Alternatives

Explore the EOS® meeting structure, including Level 10 and Quarterly meetings, plus practical alternatives like StratOp for stronger leadership alignment.

Read More about EOS® Meeting Structure: Pros, Cons & Alternatives
Strong leaders don’t play it safe.

There’s an old saying, “Nice guys finish last.” If you know me, it won’t surprise you that the phrase has a baseball connection. The Brooklyn Dodgers’ outspoken manager, Leo Durocher, coined the phrase in 1946 to explain why the New York Giants were stuck in last place despite having good talent. Known as “Leo the…

Read More about Strong leaders don’t play it safe.

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