Meet the Team

At Poised Leadership, we are trainers who love helping professionals grow into confident, influential communicators and leaders. With advanced degrees in communication and vast expertise in executive presence, presentation skills, and assertive leadership, we equip individuals and teams to speak with clarity, lead with poise, and inspire lasting impact. Our tailored coaching and workshops meet people where they are and empower them to step forward with confidence, connection, and authority.

Located on the West Coast, we’ve grown alongside the fast-paced industries of Silicon Valley and the Seattle Tech Corridor, shaping our approach to meet the demands of innovation and change. Along the way, we’ve partnered with clients across sectors including finance, fintech, blockchain, tech, AI, real estate, venture capital, engineering, media, nonprofit, government, cybersecurity, law, and education. From emerging professionals to seasoned executives, we serve clients at every stage of their career, equipping them to lead and communicate with confidence in any setting.


  • Founder

    Trainer & Coach

    Heather Needham is a leadership and communication development expert specializing in executive communication, team dynamics, strategic presentations, and leadership development. She is known for transforming emerging and quiet professionals into poised, influential leaders, Heather delivers outcomes-driven workshops and coaching that build executive presence, enhance stakeholder engagement, and foster adaptive leadership. Her work empowers leaders to communicate with clarity, lead with impact, and navigate change with confidence.


  • Trainer & Coach

    Janell Payne is a communication coach specializing in executive presence and high-impact communication skills. She works with professionals to strengthen vocal quality, language, and nonverbal presence, while also addressing speaking anxiety, inner critic management, and confidence in high-stakes settings. Janell helps clients craft compelling narratives, deliver with clarity and influence, and engage audiences and decision-makers with ease. Through tailored coaching, she identifies strengths to build upon and targets areas for measurable improvement, equipping professionals to communicate with poise, connection, and authority.