Home » About » Meet Our Guides » Jay Hidalgo
Meet Jay Hidalgo
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.
Connect with Jay
Articles Written by Jay
Strategy Summits: A Simple Process for Retaining Clients
More than just “triage and treatment” to patch up problems, a Strategy Summit generates action steps for continuous improvement.
How Often Should a Company Revise Its Strategic Plan?
Short answer: As often as it takes to win the game. The year is 1928. The rivalry is epic. Notre Dame’s Fighting Irish are being shut out by Army’s unbeaten Black Knights. What does legendary coach Knute Rockne do at halftime? He changes his strategic plan. As you may know, Rockne motivated his team to…
Failure isn’t final!
Taken in 1941, it’s one of history’s most iconic photos. Known around the world, the portrait dubbed the Roaring Lion captured the inner strength and indomitable fortitude of Sir Winston Churchill. But ironically, Churchill’s inspiring pose almost didn’t happen. For starters, the photo session did not go well. “You may take one photo,” Churchill told photographer Yousuf Karsh as…