2008 international coach federation annual report
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2008 International Coach Federation Annual ReportTRANSCRIPT
2008 Annual Report
Advancing the Art, Science, and Practice of Professional Coaching
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InternatIonal CoaCh FederatIon
w w w . c o a c h f e d e r a t i o n . o r g
www.CoaChFederatIon.org
Dear ICF MeMbers anD FrIenDs,It has always been rewarding to be a coach, but there
has never been a more exciting time than the present. The
increase in awareness around the value and contribution
of professional coaching, the various levels of growth our
association has experienced in the last year and the path
we are on as we move forward support an even brighter future.
Within the confines of this annual report, you will have the opportunity to
review our collective accomplishments of 2008 firsthand. Despite the uncertain-
ties of the global economy, the coaching profession appears to be on the rise.
Our membership numbers reinforce that, as does the ever-increasing number of
coaches who hold an ICF Credential.
As you read this annual report, you will notice the association’s strong
commitment to our core purpose of advancing the art, science and practice of
professional coaching. Reinforcing the core purpose is of the utmost importance
to our association and work continues to support it in all that we do.
In 2008, many efforts were made to continue to make our association, of
currently more than 17,000 professional coaches in 94 countries, a truly interna-
tional association.
• The ICF opened two Regional Service Centres in Brussels and Sydney.
• Three micro Web sites of Coachfederation.org launched in French,
German and Spanish.
• The first in-person official Board meeting and Leadership event to take
place outside of North America convened in Switzerland in June 2008.
• More than 1,500 individuals from 51 countries attended the ICF Annual
International Conference in Montréal.
• Seven international chapters of the ICF were awarded with an ICF Chapter
Award including chapters from Korea, Italy, Turkey, and the United States.
• Two international businesses in the United Kingdom and Canada were
honored with the ICF International Prism Award.
• Members of the ICF Board of Directors attended Chapter
meetings around the world.
• Outreach and dialogue continued with other associations to advance
professional coaching, including a joint meeting with the European
Mentoring and Coaching Council (EMCC) Executive Committee in Geneva.
• The ICF continued to see more recognition in some of the world’s most
prestigious news outlets including Wall Street Journal, The New York Times,
Forbes.com, European CEO, European Business Review and New European Economy.
• The ICF attracted, on average, 400 new members per month and achieved
a retention rate of over 76 percent.
• An additional 37 new coaching programs were accredited.
• The ICF Code of Ethics was reviewed and updated for approval in 2009.
• Work began on five-year membership growth and other ICF
branded events strategies.
• Virtual Education offerings were expanded for a total of 17 sessions in 2008.
• Nearly 30 Chapter Leadership Webinars were conducted.
• The ICF granted 1,043 Credentials for a total of 4,598 credential
holders for the year.
• Launched the ICF Research Portal on the ICF Web site, which became
the most visited section.
Also in 2008, huge strides were made in our contribution to coaching
research with the ICF Global Coaching Client Study. More than 2,100 past and present
coaching clients from over 60 countries responded to this study. In addition, the
ICF introduced the much anticipated Research Portal on its Web site to serve as
a public resource for coaching research.
Substantial accomplishments were also made toward enhancing our
credentialing system using the International Organization Standardization (ISO)
standard as a framework including the formation and work of a Role Delineation
Task Force and distribution of a job analysis survey which was completed by
2,028 individuals. Recommendations from a Test Specifications Task Force as
well as the Item Writing Task Force resulted in the creation of over 300 draft test
questions for assessing coaching which are currently undergoing review. All of
this was accomplished by 50 volunteers who participated on these various task
forces as subject matter experts.
As president, I had the distinct privilege of working with members, volun-
teers, leaders and staff throughout the past year. We are a committed, caring and
creative community of professionals that make a difference in the world. Looking
toward the future, I am secure in the knowledge that we will continue to reach
higher levels of achievement and success as this profession continues to grow.
Thank you for all that you have done, and will continue to do, to further ad-
vance the art, science, and practice of professional coaching throughout our world.
Kind regards,DIane brennan, Mba, MCC2008 ICF PresIDent
Message from the 2008 ICF President
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Leaders of the ICF willingly accept accountability for change and have
the courage to act accordingly. Together, as an association community, we will
dramatically illustrate the infinite power of professional coaching.
Cordially, Gary e. boyler ICF exeCutIve DIreCtor
table oF Contents
Global Leadership ............................................... 32008 ICF Board of Directors
Continuing the Tradition ................................ 5ICF Past Presidents
2008 ICF Global Committees .............................. 6Committee Highlights
Strategic Overview of ICF ................................. 7Prioritized Strategies and Accomplishments
Tremendous Growth on a Global Scale ............................................... 10Membership and More
Growing Global Demand for the Credential ............................................ 13Enhancing the ICF Credential
Expanding Our Knowledge on Coaching ......................................................... 14Work in Research
Diversity, Knowledge & Community at 2008 ICF Conference ..................................... 15Moments from Montréal
2008 Award Winners ........................................... 16Honoring Their Dedication to Coaching
ICF Leaders Outreach Around the Globe .............................................. 18Highlights from 2008 Travel
Additional Milestones of the Year 2008 ....................................................... 20
Financial Overview ........................................... 22
Working Toward Our Envisioned Goal ................................................. 24
observations from the ICF executive DirectorevolvInG DesPIte unCertaIn tIMes
Despite today’s somewhat daunting economic climate,
the ICF continues to make substantial progress in terms of
established strategic goals and 2008 was not by any means
an exception to the rule in terms of maintaining a clear
focus on the future.
The organization is well positioned to make even more of a difference in
these challenging times by consistently demonstrating flexibility that promotes
both creativity and innovation.
Our coaching community is faced with an enormous amount of change. In
order to constantly and effectively respond to new situations, the ICF must be
exceptionally pliant to satisfy developing needs based on the appropriate alloca-
tion of resources while moving well beyond established comfort zones.
Innovation that arises from flexibility includes active listening to the
experiences of both the current and past volunteer leadership. In a majority of
instances, these individuals have personally benefited from interacting with our
diverse, global membership. Each has enjoyed the shared, practical knowledge
of peers and colleagues as well as the harmony which results from working in
tandem to advance the art, science and practice of professional coaching.
According to the Jim Kane, author of The Loyalty Switch, in the current
environment where people have more choices than ever before where to spend
their time, money and effort, organizations must nurture virtually unbreakable
relationships in order to remain strong, relevant and effective.
When an organization is able to understand and demonstrate those loyalty
building behaviors, lifelong relationships result with unwavering, enthusiastic and
boundless support, Kane unequivocally states.
Loyalty is based on relationships, whether human or virtual. The six factors
which affect loyalty include integrity, competency, recognition, proactivity, savvy
and chemistry.
While the ICF achieved a number of benchmarks in 2008, it must marshal
all of the passion of its worldwide body of affiliates to continue advocating on
behalf of the profession, underscoring its value and the beneficial contributions
made to society through coaching.
The existing member value equation remains viable but we need to be open
to new audiences and ways of doing things to further enhance the benefits of our
growing global constituency.
Exercising the ability to be flexible will generate new ideas, unleash creativ-
ity and tap into a whole new world of innovation. The end result will be increased
stakeholder loyalty and an especially vibrant fellowship of coaches.
The new calendar year is well underway. Working collectively, shoulder to
shoulder, we can continue to make strategic inroads not only in 2009 but the
years ahead as well, in both favorable and more demanding periods of time.
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Group; approved the creation of a brand development task
force; made the ACC credential renewable; approved changes
to the Ethical Conduct Review Process; and approved the
recommendations of the global Ethics & Standards Committee
of the three year review of the ICF Code of Ethics.
Board members also participated in multicultural training;
began work on an overall growth strategy for the organization;
initiated dialogue on the future of ICF Branded Events, ap-
pointing a task force; and had a joint meeting with the EMCC
executive committee.
There were also many firsts in 2008 for the global Board:
the association’s first non-North American President-Elect,
Karen Tweedie, PCC, took office; the initial annual review
of the strategic plan was conducted in January 2008; and the
inaugural international face-to-face Board meeting was held
in Geneva, Switzerland in conjunction with the ICF European
Coaches Conference in June.
The leadership exhibited by the 2008 Board was especially
noteworthy; the result of this Board’s strategically oriented
work will continue to direct our association for many years to
come. The ICF would like to take a moment to thank the fol-
lowing Board members whose terms expired in 2008 for their
continued dedication and support of the ICF:
• Kay Cannon, MBA, MCC
• Ginger Cockerham, MCC
• Pauline Fleming, MCC
• Michelle Payne, MCC
Global leadership2008 ICF boarD oF DIreCtors
Using a knowledge-based leadership approach, the global
Board of Directors serves as the governing body of the ICF.
The 2008 global Board was made up of a diverse group of 16
coaching professionals from eight countries, including: Aus-
tralia, Belgium, Canada, France, Ireland, Italy, Norway, United
Kingdom and the United States.
The global perspective of the Board was reflected in the
actions they took throughout 2008 to continue to advance the
art, science and practice of professional coaching.
Early in the year, the Board selected three priorities from
our strategic plan for the association to focus on in 2008.
These were:
InCrease the CoMPetItIve branD aDvantaGe that the ICF CreDentIal oFFers;InCrease ICF MeMbers’ ProFessIonal DeveloPMent InCluDInG eDuCatIonal anD networkInG oPPortunItIes; anDaCquIre Iso 17024 CoMPlIanCe For the CreDentIalInG ProGraM.
You can read more about the levels of accomplishment
of each of these priorities on page 7.
With these priorities in mind, much was accomplished
during the eight Board meetings that took place in 2008 (three
in-person and five via teleconference): the Board authorized
the ICF Global Coaching Client Study; funded next steps to
enhance our globally independent credentialing system;
approved changes to the by-laws; approved the concept of
the Organizational Partner Council and Education Advisory
Brennan recognizes exiting Board members.
Brennan welcomes 2009 incoming ICF President.
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2008 Global board of Directors
Diane Brennan, MBA, MCC
United States, President
Karen Tweedie, PCC
Australia, President-Elect
Kay Cannon, MBA, MCC
United States, Past President
Ginger Cockerham, MCC
United States, Vice President
Daniele Darmouni, MCC
France, Vice President
Garry Schleifer, PCC
Canada, Vice President
Giovanna D’Alessio, MCC
Italy, Secretary/Treasurer
John Annesley, PCC
Australia, Director
Philip Brew, MCC
United Kingdom, Director
Sylviane Cannio, PCC
Belgium, Director
Ira Dressner, PCC
United States, Director
Pauline Fleming, MCC
Canada, Director
Tom Hatton, PCC
Ireland, Director
Marilyn O’Hearne, MCC
United States, Director
Michelle Payne, MCC
United States, Director
*Not pictured below.
Lene Rønning-Arnesen, PCC
Norway, Director
2008 ICF Board of Directors
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The rich history of the ICF is kept alive through the as-
sociation’s former leaders, especially its past presidents. Since
the organization was established in 1995, 12 coaching profes-
sionals have served as president of the ICF. The work of these
dedicated individuals will continue to reverberate long after
they are gone. Thank you for your continued support of the
coaching profession!
Continuing the tradition
kay Cannon, Mba, MCCunited statesICF President // 2007
PaM rICharDe, MCCunited statesICF President // 2006
steve MItten, MCCCanadaICF President // 2005
barbara walton, MCCunited statesICF President // 2004
juDy FelD, MCCunited statesICF President // 2003
bobette reeDer, MCCunited statesICF President // 2001-2003
Darelyn “Dj” MItsCh, MCCunited statesICF President // 2001
Dr. MarCIa reynolDs, MCCunited statesICF President // 1999-2001
john seIFFer, MCCunited statesICF President // 1998
jeFF raIMunited statesICF President // 1997
Cheryl rICharDson, MCCunited statesICF President // 1996
sanDy vIlas, MCCunited statesICF President // jan. 1996 - july 1996
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2008 Global ICF Committees 2008 Committee highlights
Nearly 100 volunteers from diverse backgrounds and 26
countries joined together in 2008 to form nine global ICF
Committees. These dedicated individuals selflessly gave sig-
nificant amounts of time and energy to move the association
forward and to further advance the art, science and practice of
professional coaching throughout the world. The output of the
2008 ICF Committees is immeasurable.
The ICF would like to take this opportunity to thank each
individual who was a part of a 2008 ICF Committee and more
specially recognize the leadership of these important entities.
ConFerenCe eDuCatIon steerInG CoMMItteeChair – Jeff Staggs, MCC, United States
CreDentIalInG anD ProGraM aCCreDItatIon CoMMItteeChair – Tracy Stevens, MCC, United States
Vice Chair – Patricia Mathews, MCC, United States
ethICs anD stanDarDs CoMMItteeChair – Jeanne Erikson, PCC, United States
Vice Chair – Philip Potdevin, PCC, Colombia
FInanCe CoMMItteeChair – Giovanna D’Alessio, MCC, Italy
MarketInG CoMMItteeChair – Joan Cook, MCC, United States
Vice Chair – Michael Weitz, PCC, Israel
MeMbershIP anD CoMMunIty CoMMItteeChair – Pat Obuchowski, PCC, United States
Vice Chair – Jerry Wistrom, PCC, United States
noMInatInG CoMMItteeChair – Kay Cannon, MCC, United States
reGulatory CoMMItteeChair – Ed Modell, PCC, United States
researCh anD eDuCatIon CoMMItteeChair – Krissy Jackson, ACC, Switzerland
Vice Chair – Sue Zablud, ACC, Australia
• Regulatory chapter liaison: The ICF Regulatory Com-
mittee continued to monitor activity around the world that
could impact the regulation of the coaching profession. The
Committee established a network of 48 ICF Regulatory Liai-
sons, with 23 appointed by ICF Chapters outside United States
and 25 liaisons appointed by chapters in the United States.
• Consolidation of credentialing processes:
The Credentialing and Program Accreditation Committee
began a comprehensive review and reorganization of ICF
Credentialing policy language to create a document that is
up-to-date, comprehensive, and organized in such a way that it
becomes useful for staff, members, leadership, and the public.
• Updated ICF Code of Ethics: The Ethics and Standards
Committee finalized its review of the ICF Code of Ethics and
presented a revised code to the ICF Board of Directors for
approval.
• New overall financial strategy: The Finance Committee
developed an overall financial strategy in support of the ICF
long-term strategic plan and for the well-being of the ICF.
This strategy included building the reserves to meet the level
of 6-months of operating expenses by 2012, building capital
reserves for special projects to $50,000, the annual interna-
tional conference to realize 15 percent profit by 2014, reach
a 40/60 percent split of revenues coming from membership
dues and other revenue sources by fiscal 2015, and non-dues
revenue producing projects capable of delivering a return on
investment of at least 10 percent within two years and a recur-
ring surplus thereafter of at least 15 percent per annum.
• Work begun on chapter leadership forum: Two
Global Leadership Forums, one during the European Coaches
Conference in Geneva and another during the ICF Annual In-
ternational Conference in Montreal, were held during 2008 for
ICF Chapter leaders. The Membership and Community Com-
mittee began preparing a recommended to create an annual
ICF Global Leadership Forum for chartered chapter leaders
whereby they would attend a two-day best practices seminar.
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ICF DeFInItIon oF CoaChInGThe ICF defines coaching as partnering with clients in a
thought provoking and creative process that inspires them to
maximize their personal and professional potential.
Coaching is an ongoing relationship which focuses on
clients taking action toward the realization of their visions,
goals or desires.
Coaching uses a process of inquiry and personal discovery
to build the client’s level of awareness and responsibility and
provides the client with structure, support and feedback.
The coaching process helps clients both define and achieve
major goal areas, both professional and personal, faster and
with more ease than would be possible otherwise.
PrIorItIzeD strateGIes anD aCCoMPlIshMents oF 2008
As a knowledge-based organization, the ICF continues to
be guided by the strategic plan that was developed in late 2006.
Following a review of the strategic plan, three prioritized
strategies were selected for focus in 2008. These strategies,
taken directly from the strategic plan, were selected by the
global ICF Board of Directors in January 2008. The strategies
were:
Increase the competitive brand advantage
that the ICF Credential offers;
Increase ICF members’ professional
development including educational and
networking opportunities; and
Acquire ISO 17024 compliance for
credentialing program.
InCrease the CoMPetItIve branD aDvantaGe that the ICF CreDentIal oFFers
While a substantial amount of progress has been made on
this key goal, a great deal of ongoing work has been initiated
to not only increase and meet the growing demand for ICF
Credentials but further ensure the effectiveness of the process
so it is readily recognized as both globally credible and cutting
edge. A great deal remains to be done.
By December 31, 2008: 1,472 of 1,487 credentialing ap-
plications have been processed (99 percent), with 1,043 (70
percent) granted a credential.
Some 601 press clips, with a circulation of over 192 million,
specifically mentioning the ICF Credentials were captured in
The ICF is the largest worldwide resource for business and
personal coaches, and the source for those who are seeking a
coach. We are a nonprofit, individual membership organiza-
tion formed by professionals worldwide who practice business
and personal coaching.
ICF Core PurPoseTo advance the art, science and practice of professional coaching.
bIG auDaCIous GoalCoaching is an integral part of society and ICF members rep-
resent the highest quality in professional coaching.
ICF Core values• Integrity: We uphold the highest standards both
for the coaching profession and our organization.
• Excellence: We set and demonstrate standards
of excellence for professional coach quality,
qualification and competence.
• Collaboration: We value the social connection
and community building that occurs through
collaborative partnership and co-created achievement.
• Respect: We are inclusive and value the diversity
and richness of our global stakeholders. We put
people first, without compromising standards,
policies and quality.
2008 Committee highlights (cont.)
strategic overview of ICF
• Research and Education work: The Research and
Education Committee created a Peer Review Template which
would allow them to review ICF Research Portal item submis-
sions more efficiently. With the assistance of the ICF Regional
Service Centres, ICF Virtual Education sessions began being
offered in local time zones for both Europe and Asia-Pacific.
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2008, an increase of 95.8 percent over 2007. Of the 1,102 clips,
with a circulation of over 335 million, mentioning ICF from
January through December 2008, 54 percent made reference to
ICF Credentials.
Increase ICF members’ professional development includ-
ing educational and networking opportunities.
A number of objectives were completed over the course of
2008 in terms of increasing the value of ICF member educa-
tional and networking opportunities.
Since its introduction in March, 2008, the ICF Research
Portal was viewed an incredible 60,379 times, with the Case
Study section of the portal receiving 54,449 visits through
December 2008.
A total of 807 CCEU applications for new educational
sessions were approved in 2008, representing an average of 68
additional offerings per month. This volume represents a 30
percent increase over the 2007 calendar year.
With the previous Virtual Community transitioned to
ICF Virtual Education at the beginning of 2008, a total of 17
sessions have been delivered to 562 attendees, averaging 33
participants per call. Topics varied from presentations on the
impact of credentialing which looked at results of the ICF
Global Coaching Study to presentations on Emotional Intel-
ligence, coaching teams and groups, leadership, and business
development.
Nearly 30 Chapter Leadership Webinars were offered in
during 2008 with attendance documented at between 12 to 20
chapters per session. Presentations were scheduled for differ-
ent time zones. Topics included fundraising, recruitment and
retention and leadership development.
A Global Leadership Forum was held in Geneva, Switzer-
land with 33 chapter leaders in attendance followed by another
one in Montréal preceding the Annual Conference which
attracted 68 chapter leaders from more than 20 countries.
These forums allowed for leaders to network and listen to
presentations on coaching practices from ICF leaders from
around the world.
In Geneva, ICF 2008 President Diane Brennan, MBA,
MCC, and 2008 ICF President–Elect Karen Tweedie, PCC,
briefed the group about the opening of Regional Service
Centres in Europe and Asia Pacific, efforts to enhance the
credibility and value of the credentialing program and an
overview of expanded chapter leadership support. John
Blakey, ACC, Director of Brand Development for the UK ICF
Chapter, shared best practices concerning successful self-
funding activities which have not only increased financial
resources but invigorated his chapter. A contingency of 10 new
ICF members from India, led by Satya Murty Dharanipragada,
ACC, presented their colleagues with “The Vision of ICF
Indian Chapters and Challenges to Indian Coaching,” which
showed the impressive growth of ICF in terms of membership
and new chapters in India.
In Montréal, Ginger Cockerham, MCC, facilitated a
Chapter Best Practices Panel which included Jerry Wistrom,
PCC; Bernie Siegel, PCC; Colleen Bracken, PCC; and Pauline
Fleming, MCC. The panel spoke to attendees on several topics
Cockerham with members of the Montréal Chapter Best Practices Panel.
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The number of visits to Coachfederation.org totaled 1,191,754
in 2008 with an average visit time of six minutes, two seconds,
compared to 1,012,744 visits in 2007. Translated microsites proved
popular in their introductory year with 28,404 visits to the Spanish
site; 28,574 to the French site; and 27,273 to the German site.
aCquIre Iso 17024 CoMPlIanCe For CreDentIalInG ProGraM
In order to meet the growing global need for the ICF
Credential, the ICF continued in 2008 to further refine its
credentialing system and work toward compliancy with
the International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
standards for bodies operating certification of persons. This
initiative will increase the ICF’s capacity to satisfy demands for
our credentials while streamlining processes to be much more
customer-centric and less labor-intensive.
For the purposes of the ICF, the ISO standard serves as
a framework for a credentialing program that meets globally
recognized standards and procedures of operation. ISO com-
pliance does not dictate the specific content or prerequisites
required to be granted a credential; rather it provides guidance
which promotes the operation of a consistent, objective and
credible program.
During 2008, substantial progress was made in this
important area, including the work of the Role Delineation
Task Force, distribution of a job analysis survey which was
completed by 2,028 individuals, recommendations from the
Test Specifications as well as the Item Writing Task Forces
which resulted in the creation of over 300 draft test questions
currently undergoing review.
Along with the work of the various task forces, conversa-
tions and learning were also taking place with other groups
who are interested in the path that ICF is taking toward
enhancing the credential. This includes meetings with ACTO
and GSAEC, the ICF Assessor Team, credential applicants, the
ICF Credentialing Committee and input and direction from
the ICF global Board of Directors.
including leadership development, member retention and
non-dues chapter revenue. Neil Scotton, ACC; Kathryn Pope,
PCC; and Kish Modasia, ACC, of the UK ICF Chapter, pre-
sented Coaching as an Integral Part of Society. Dharanipragada
offered an update on the Vision of ICF Indian Chapters which
he presented earlier in Geneva.
Substantial changes were made to Coaching World to en-
hance the overall design and content of the monthly member
newsletter. Over 10 bylined articles were introduced along
with top rated 2007 conference presenters in addition to an
Ask the Board feature and regular human interest features.
Readership of the newsletter increased 30 to 50 percent per
issue in comparison to 2007, an 18 percent increase.
Attendance at the ICF Annual International Conference
was 1,511 individuals from 51 countries who had 66 differ-
ent breakout sessions from which to choose. The three Super
Sessions were simultaneously translated into both French and
Japanese. Education sessions were centered on seven areas of
focus: Coaching & Leadership; Coaching & Organizations;
Science & Coaching; Mind, Body, Spirit Connection; Impact
in the World; Wisdom Circles for Core Competencies; and
Wisdom Circles for Marketing, Branding and Building Your
Own Business. Presenters of the highest rated educational ses-
sions were invited to submit an overview of their presentation
to be featured in Coaching World newsletter throughout 2009.
strategic overview of ICF (cont.)
Blakey shares self-funding practices on behalf of the UK ICF Chapter.
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here Is a suMMary oF ProGress In 2008:• Engaged more than 50 volunteers to
assist as subject matter experts;
• Conducted a global job analysis survey of the work that
coaches do with 2,028 responses;
• Verified that the Core Competencies
still serve as the basis for the work of coaches;
• Began the creation of a formal body of knowledge;
• Engaged a wide global audience of individuals,
organizations, and subject matter experts to provide input;
• Initiated the construction of a psychometrically
sound set of questions to be used to assess coaching; and
• Creation/use of a credible and legally defensible
process for creating a credential.
In addition, the Credentialing Committee began work
on updating, revising, and collating overall credential policy
documents into a single manual.
Great progress has been made, however several decisions
are pending regarding the future of the credentialing program.
As these deliberations are finalized the association will con-
tinue moving toward the destination that has been set by the
ICF Board; having a credentialing program that truly holds
global credibility and provides permanent value; that is a cut-
ting edge, competitive and robust system capable of handling
a growing demand; and operate utilizing globally recognized
standards for objectivity, validity, reliability and security.
The ICF has experienced a 645 percent increase in
membership since 1999. Over the last four years, the ICF has
increased its membership by 16 to 18 percent per year.
Throughout 2008, an average of 400 new members world-
wide joined the ICF each month. In January, ICF membership
stood at just over 13,400 members. By December, membership
had surpassed the 16,000 member mark in over 90 countries.
The retention rate for the year was over 76 percent.
The countries represented by ICF members are located all
over the world, from Argentina to Vietnam. In 2008, members
from several new countries joined our association, including
Belarus, the Congo, Estonia, Malawi, Paraguay and Togo.
To support the continual growth of the ICF membership, 11
new chapters and 10 Special Interest Groups (SIGs) were cre-
ated in 2008.
New ICF Chapters:
• Alaska Chapter;
• Davangere, India Chapter;
• ICF Gauteng Chapter (RSA);
• ICF Indian Coaches
Association Chapter;
• ICF Latvia;
• ICF Mexico Centro Chapter;
• ICF Nepal Chapter.
• Midlands, South Carolina Chapter;
• Ranebeenur, India Chapter;
• Shimoga, India Chapter; and
• Tokyo Chapter.
tremendous Growthon a Global scale
ICF Membership by Region
Europe/Middle East26%
Mexico/Caribbean/Central-South America
2%
United States48%
Canada11%
Africa1%
Asia Pacific12%
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total) mentioned ICF Program Accreditation.
New tools and services were utilized by the ICF marketing
staff to further outreach to publications around the world. Seven-
teen press releases were sent to media outlets worldwide in 2008.
In addition to press releases, the ICF reached out through
personalized media pitches to specific members of the media
on a global scale. A special effort was made in creating contact
with non-North American entities.
new ICF sIGs: • Business Development and Marketing SIG;
• Conflict Coaching SIG;
• Equine Experiential Coaching SIG;
• Gestion D’Enterprise Personnelle
(Francophone)/Management of Personal Business;
• Global Health Care Coaching Alliance SIG;
• Japanese Speaking Coaches SIG;
• Leadership Coaching SIG;
• Quarterlifers SIG;
• Sales Skills for Coaches; and
• Wellness Coaching SIG.
InForMInG the worlD about CoaChInGThe word continues to spread about coaching in all
facets of the media. In fact, nearly 14,000 articles on the
subject were published in 2008 alone, with a potential reach
of more than one billion people!
The ICF was specifically mentioned in 1,102 clips in
2008. This number is up 52 percent over 2007. The combined
circulation of each of the publications that mentioned the ICF
in 2008 surpassed 335 million. Of those clips: 601 (55 percent)
mentioned the ICF Credential with a potential reach of nearly
200 million readers. This number is also up from 2007—at an
astonishing 96 percent! Seventeen percent of the clips (183 in
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otF reCoMMenDatIons realIzeD In 2007, the Organizational Task Force was formed to
assist the ICF Board and staff in the development of options,
policies and plans to offer an equitable and flexible choice of
affiliation models to meet the needs of individual members,
entities, and alliances with a clear framework of policies,
structures and accountabilities in the ICF global operating
environment. The final recommendations of the task force that
year included many changes and initiatives addressing mem-
bership and chapter structure, ICF Partners, and the creation
of Regional Service Centres.
reGIonal servICe CentresMeeting its goal of launching two ICF Regional Service
Centres by the end 2008, the ICF opened virtual Regional
Service Centres (RSCs) in EMEA (Europe, Middle East,
Africa) and in Asia-Pacific on October 1, 2008. These popular
centres are greatly improving the level of customer service for
chapters and members in these regions while expanding the
ICF’s global presence.
Both centres are operating with enhanced outreach in
their respective regions. Shortly, after they opened, they
became involved in the recruitment, promotion and facilita-
tion of Virtual Education calls in times zones which are more
convenient to members in Asia-Pacific and EMEA.
Further, these centres will help
satisfy the unique needs of potential
new ICF members who now have the
opportunity to speak with an ICF repre-
sentative in their own time zone during
their own business hours.
Isabelle Maes operates the RSC-
EMEA based in Brussels. Fiona Toy
heads the RSC-Asia-Pacific in New
South Wales, Australia. Both Maes
and Toy visited ICF Headquarters in
September 2008 for a weeklong orienta-
tion with staff. As part of ICF global
outreach, Maes met with ICF European
leaders in Prague in December.
A larger advertising budget in fiscal year 2009 resulted in
increased advertising in a number of publications, especially
in European countries. Some of the publications the ICF
advertised in include:
• European Business Review: (circulation–over 64,400)
this journal is targeted for senior strategic managers, research-
ers, academics, libraries, public policy makers, and senior
government and industry consultants.
• European CEO: (circulation– over 45,200) this publication
is tailored for CEOs and other decision-making executives
who serve on the boards of Europe’s leading companies; and
• New European Economy: (circulation– over 38,000) this
periodical provides in-depth coverage of strategic commercial
management decisions and their impact on corporate bottom
lines across Europe.
• choice: (circulation–over 2,500 ) this magazine is dedicated
to the coaching industry.
The ICF continues to enjoy exposure in some of the
world’s most prestigious publications as it continues to be
increasingly recognized as an important resource for global
media outlets.
• Business Day (South Africa);
• CNN.com (United States);
• The Daily Telegraph (UK);
• Diario Expreso (Peru);
• European Business Review (Europe);
• Financial Times: New Delhi (India);
• Forbes.com (United States);
• Franchise Wire (New Zealand);
• New Straits Times (Malaysia);
• Philippine Daily Inquirer (The Philippines);
• The New York Times (United States);
• USA Today (United States);
• The Wall Street Journal (United States);
• Washington Post (United States); and
• Yahoo! Canada (Canada); etc.
Isabelle Maes
Fiona Toy
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According to data from the ICF Global Coaching Study
conducted in late 2006, more than half (52 percent) of all
coaches indicated their clients expect them to be credentialed.
In 2008, nearly two-thirds (62.5 percent) of coaching clients
throughout the world indicated that they had awareness of
their coach’s level of coach specific certification or credential
prior to entering into a formal coaching relationship, accord-
ing to the ICF Global Coaching Client Study. Among all ICF
coaches, 32.6 percent indicated that they are currently pursu-
ing an ICF Credential (2008 ICF Marketing Survey).
Credentials have grown by 113 percent over the past two
years to 4,598 credentials in 2008, up from 2,158 in 2006.
Some 601 media clips specifically mentioning ICF Creden-
tials were captured in 2008, an increase of 95.8 percent over
2007. Of the 1,102 clips mentioning ICF from January through
December 2008, 54 percent made reference to ICF Credentials.
enhanCeMents MaDe to CreDentIalInG ProGraM In 2008:• All credential applications are now accepted year-round.
• The ACC credential was determined to be valid for
three years and renewable, with
additional requirements.
• ACC applicants (submitting a port-
folio application) are now required
to document 10 hours of work with a
qualified mentor coach.
• A full inventory of all credentialing
tasks was completed and staff responsi-
bilities reassigned to maximize efficien-
cies, productivity and improve overall
customer service.
• Communication with all credential
Growing Global Demand for the Credential
applicants was initiated on a three-week cycle to inform each
of current status.
• A total of 19 new assessors were added to the roster with an
additional 62 still in training.
• Significant progress was made in streamlining the program
accreditation process and the backlog of programs was elimi-
nated in 2008.
ICF CreDentIalInG ProGraM enhanCeMent workIn order to meet the growing global need for the ICF
Credential, the ICF continued in 2008 to further refine its
credentialing system and work toward compliancy with
the International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
standards for bodies operating certification of persons. This
initiative will increase the ICF’s capacity to satisfy demands for
our credentials while streamlining processes to be much more
customer-centric and less labor-intensive.
For the purposes of the ICF, the ISO standard serves as
a framework for a credentialing program that meets globally
recognized standards and procedures of operation. ISO com-
ICF Test Specification Task Force members and ICF staff.
ICF Role Delineation/Job Analysis Task Force members and ICF staff.
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expanding our knowledge on CoachingICF Global CoaChInG ClIent stuDy
In 2008, the ICF conducted a companion study to the
landmark 2007 ICF Global Coaching Study. Two global firms
conducted the research for the ICF Global Coaching Client
Study: PricewaterhouseCoopers’ International Survey Unit
(ISU) and the Association Resource Centre, Inc.
ICF member coaches and non-ICF coaches all over the
world contributed to this important research endeavor by in-
viting their clients to participate. Initially, PwC completed five
focus groups attended by a total of 40 actual coaching clients
in New York, Toronto, Los Angeles, Sydney and London. The
information obtained from these groups contributed greatly
to the implementation of a global online survey of coaching
clients. A total 2,165 clients from 64 countries participated in
online survey which was offered in English, French, German,
and Spanish for maximum global participation.
We intend for the 2008 study to produce relevant data,
such as region specific and/or country specific data, for chap-
ter and member use.
Initial findings from the study were released during
the Annual Business Meeting held during the International
Conference in Montréal. Geoff Thacker (Association Resource
Centre) attended the conference and helped promote the study
to coaches on site. The Final Report is scheduled to be released
during the first quarter of 2009.
ICF researCh Portal — a MuCh antICIPateD MeMber beneFIt
In March 2008, the ICF launched its much anticipated ICF
Research Portal on Coachfederation.org. The portal houses a
growing collection of research and studies on coaching in one
central location for ICF members and the public.
The ICF Research Portal contains both ICF produced and
non-ICF produced items, including: articles, case studies,
journals, reports and industry links.
Response to the portal was especially enthusiastic among
members. From its debut through December 31, 2008, the
main page of the ICF Research Portal was viewed 60,379
times. During this same time period, the Case Study section
proved to be the most popular section of the portal; as it was
viewed 54,449 times.
The ICF will continue to develop and supplement the con-
pliance does not dictate the specific content or prerequisites
required to be granted a credential; rather it provides guidance
which promotes the operation of a consistent, objective and
credible program.
During 2008, substantial steps were made toward ISO
compliance, including the work of the Role Delineation
Task Force, distribution of a job analysis survey which was
completed by 2,028 individuals, recommendations from the
Test Specifications Task Force as well as the Item Writing Task
Force which resulted in the creation of over 300 draft test
questions which are currently undergoing review.
Additionally, the Credentialing Committee began work on
updating, revising and collating overall credential policy docu-
ments into a single manual, communication levels between ICF
Headquarters and credentialing applicants improved through
the implementation of regular three-week status updates.
MetrICsFor 2008, 1,472 of 1,487 (99 percent) applications received
were processed, with 1,043 (70 percent) granted a credential
and 35 (2 percent) denied. The total number of 2008 applica-
tions received represents a 5 percent increase over 2007.
The total number of ICF Credential holders by December
31, 2008 was 4,598 including:
• 2,539 ACCs (55 percent);
• 1,426 PCCs (31 percent); and
• 633 MCCs (14 percent).
Credential testimonies gathered throughout 2008 for Web
site, Coaching World. The ICF Marketing Department reached
out to members who renewed their credentials in 2008. Testi-
monials were collected from 142 ICF Credentialed members
and then displayed on the ICF Web site and in Coaching World
to encourage others to renew or apply for a credential.
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More than 1,500 coaches from 51 countries came to
experience four days of exciting networking opportuni-
ties, world-renowned speakers, a wide range of educational
sessions, and multicultural cuisine and entertainment at the
ICF Annual International Conference in Montréal, Québec,
Canada, November 12–15.
Coaches from all backgrounds, educational levels, and
specialties gathered at the colorful Palais des congrés de
Montréal in the city’s center to learn, grow and ultimately
deepen the impact of professional coaching around the world.
The 2008 conference was unmatched in global reach, with 79
speakers from 16 countries presenting views from five conti-
nents—Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, and North America.
Super sessions, translated in both French and Japanese, were
led by world-renowned keynote speakers Dr. Vandana Shiva,
Dr. Peter Senge, and Matthieu Ricard.
The second day’s super session included the ICF Annual
Business Meeting during which 2008 ICF President Diane
Brennan, MBA, MCC, gave a “year in review” presentation
highlighting ICF accomplishments for the year, including
tent available in the Research Portal, adding documents, espe-
cially non-English language items, to make even more research
available to ICF members and the public. Prior to being consid-
ered for possible inclusion in the ICF Research Portal, all items
are first evaluated by the Research Reviewing Subcommittee
(RRS), a group whose composition is chosen by the leadership
of the ICF Research and Education Committee (R&E).
what PeoPle saID about the PoPular ICF researCh Portal
“The opening of the ICF Research Portal was much an-
ticipated – many coaches and potential clients are interested in
documented cases. Now there is a central place where coach-
ing research can be located and utilized by interested parties,”
said Diane Brennan, MBA, MCC, 2008 President of the ICF.
“It is a fantastic repository of coaching research that makes
a big step towards the strategic goal that states - ICF will be the
source of the most credible and trusted industry information,”
said John Blakey, ACC, 2008 Director of Brand Development
UK ICF Chapter.
expanding our knowledge on Coaching (cont.)
Diversity, knowledge & Community at 2008 ICF Conference
Brennan addresses attendees before the keynote presentation.
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The following indi-
viduals, chapters, and or-
ganizations were honored
with ICF Awards during
the Montréal conference.
InternatIonal ICF PrIsM awarD
The prestigious
International ICF Prism
Award recognizes
organizations that have
enhanced excellence and
business achievement
through their commit-
ment to coaching as a
leadership strategy.
• British Broadcasting
Corporation (BBC)
• SYSCO Food Services of Canada
ICF PresIDent’s awarDEach year, the ICF
President selects an
individual for this award
based on his/her exem-
plary work to promote
coaching.
• Neil Scotton, ACC,
2008 UK ICF Chapter
President
ICF ChaPter awarDsSeven international chapters of the International Coach
Federation were awarded with an ICF Chapter Award during
the Global Leadership Forum in Montréal.
The winning chapters were awarded in two categories: Lo-
cal Spirit, Global Presence–Community Activism Award and
Finding Our Voice—Marketing/PR Award.
strong growth in members and credential holders. ICF Trea-
surer Giovanna D’Alessio, MCC, presented the 2008 Treasurer’s
Report in which she outlined ICF’s fiscal successes and future
challenges. Also during the Annual Business Meeting 2008
ICF award winners were recognized for their work to move the
profession of coaching forward in their part of the world.
Chapter leaders from over 20 countries joined together
November 12 for the ICF Global Leadership Forum which pre-
ceded the ICF Conference’s official opening. The forum allowed
for leaders to network and listen to presentations on coaching
practices from leaders like them from around the world.
From the whimsical “Le Magie du Canada” opening recep-
tion to the sophisticated “Global Rendezvous” closing gala and
everything in between, the 2008 ICF Conference gave unparal-
leled opportunities for coaches to receive the level of expanded
education and conversation they need to develop and grow in
the profession. And as always, the ICF Annual International
Conference set the stage for meaningful and powerful con-
nections between dedicated coaches who are committed to
advancing the art, science, and practice of professional coach-
ing on a global scale.
Conference attendees provided strong positive feedback
on the evaluation survey for both the Super Sessions and the
Educational Breakout Sessions. Eighty percent of conference
attendees were “satisfied” (either somewhat or extremely) with
their conference experience. Seventy-two percent of conference
attendees said they would attend a future ICF Annual Interna-
tional Conference based on the educational programming.
2008 award winners
Conference attendees dance at the closing Gala event.
Brennan with Liz Macannof the BBC.
Brennan with Andrew Millerand Cassandra Gierden of SYSCO
Food Services of Canada
ICF President’s Award recipient Neil Scotton.
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Coaches from this chapter assisted in preparing entrepre-
neur candidates through coaching sessions. This partnership
became an example for Endeavor Global and will be replicated
in 11 other country offices; and
• (Small Chapter) Heartland Coaches ICF Chapter—
Kansas City, Missouri, USA: this chapter focused on raising
the awareness and visibility of their chapter and the coaching
profession as a whole. They contributed to an article in the
Kansas City Star, had a panel of three coaches on a local radio
talk show and awarded a $5,000 service grant to a local HIV/
AIDS service provider during International Coaching Week.
FInDInG our voICe—MarketInG/Pr awarDRecipients of the Finding Our Voice—Marketing/PR Award
have created a successful marketing/PR campaign in their
communities.
• (Large Chapter) ICF Chicago Chapter—Chicago, Illi-
nois, USA: this chapter expanded the awareness of coaching in
Chicago through various printed publications (members were
featured in various publications, like Crain’s Chicago Busi-
ness magazine and Chicago Wellness), radio programs (a local
radio show regularly mentions the chapter’s scheduled events),
alliances (with various local professional organizations) and
networking (members attended various networking meetings
and events to introduce people to the CCF);
• (Medium Chapter) Federazione Italiana Coach—It-
aly: in 2007, this chapter organized and implemented the first
“Coaching Equality Week” as a week of training, meetings,
and conversations between FIC coaches and local institutions,
associations, universities and schools. This event developed
a culture around coaching and has created an innovative
network of parties willing to provide pro bono coaching with
other parties; and
• (Small Chapter) ICF Korea Seoul—Seoul, South Korea:
this chapter promoted coaching in Korea through various activi-
ties, including weekly coaching columns in Joong Ang (a Korean
newspaper); filmed various nationwide television shows about
coaching; as well as various volunteer coaching initiatives.
loCal sPIrIt, Global PresenCe–CoMMunIty aCtIvIsM awarD
Recipients of the Local Spirit, Global Presence–Commu-
nity Activism Award have established a significant coaching
presence in their communities. Each award category presents
three awards, depending on chapter size (small, medium and
large). In 2008, there was a tie for the large chapter category
for this award.
• (Large Chapter) ICF Metro D.C. Chapter—Wash-
ington, D.C., USA: this chapter offered pro bono coaching
opportunities to community-based nonprofit groups (such as
Leadership Arlington, A Wider Circle, Greater DC Cares, and
Operation Homefront) and provided innovative and engag-
ing coaching awareness programs (aimed at the corporate and
association/nonprofit markets) that show the return on invest-
ment (ROI) of professional coaching;
• (Large Chapter) ICF NYC Chapter—New York City,
New York, USA: this chapter provided various community
outreach and services in New York during 2008. Some of their
largest projects this year included: the “Out to Work” Career
Fair, E-Book for American soldiers overseas, career coaching
for students, and career counseling at the Hispanic Alliance
for Career Enhancement (HACE). As a result of these events,
plans for future collaborative events are in the works;
• (Medium Chapter) ICF Turkey Chapter—Turkey: this
chapter established a coaching presence and provided pro
bono coaching to a global nonprofit organization, Endeavor.
2008 award winners (cont.)
ICF Chapter Leaders at the Global Leadership Luncheon in Montréal.
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ICF leaders outreach around the Globe
ICF leaders and staff members traveled all over the world
in 2008 for various meetings and conferences, representing the
coaching profession on behalf of the association and its many
members. These travels were of great importance, allowing the
ICF to reach out to its members and the public in a meaning-
ful and personal way while telling the world about coaching
and the ICF.
Included in the travel agenda were three face-to-face
global Board of Directors’ meetings; the first ICF Global Lead-
ership Forum outside North America; and conferences and
events in Australia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Ireland,
Norway, Peru, Slovakia, the UK and the US.
january• The global ICF Board of Directors met in Miami, Florida,
USA, January 17–19 for the initial annual strategic plan review
and first director’s meeting of 2008.
aPrIl• 2008 ICF President Diane Brennan, MBA, MCC, President-
Elect Karen Tweedie, PCC, and ICF Assistant Executive Direc-
tor Magdalena Mook met with the ICF European Leaders
group in Copenhagen, Denmark. While there, they were also
part of an open meeting held by the local chapter for all area
ICF members and coaches in the surrounding communities.
Board member Lene Rønning-Arnesen, PCC, joined them
for one day in Denmark. While in Copenhagen, Brennan also
spoke at the University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen Coach-
ing Center and the Danish Nurses Organization.
• Tweedie attended the ICF Victoria Chapter’s 300th Member
Celebration and professional development event. Tweedie
participated in a panel discussion addressing key points about
integrating coaching into the corporate world; what corpo-
rate clients are looking for from a coach; and mega trends in
coaching.
May • Brennan along with ICF Executive Director Gary Boyler and
Director of Credentialing and Program Accreditation George
Rogers attended the Coach Training Schools’ Conference
sponsored by the Association of Coach Training Organiza-
tions (ACTO) in San Diego, California, USA. They partici-
pated in roundtable discussions with representatives from 17
coach training programs from Canada, Europe and the US.
june• The ICF hosted the first Global Leadership Forum outside
of North America in conjunction with the ICF European
Coaching Conference (ECC) in Geneva, Switzerland. Chapter
leadership representatives from 20 countries attended this
event. The global Board held its second face-to-face Board
meeting of the year in Geneva prior to the ECC. Brennan,
Tweedie, Boyler, Mook and other members of the ICF Board
attended the ECC.
• Brennan traveled throughout Europe visiting the United
Kingdom, Czech Republic and Switzerland. Her European
travels began with a speaking engagement in Oxford for
the OCM Conference sponsored by the Oxford School of
Coaching and Mentoring. There she presented a case study on
coaching with a chief executive of a hospital organization in
the United States. In London Brennan met with 2008 ICF UK
Chapter President Neil Scotton, ACC. She went on to Prague
to a ICF Prague/Czech Republic Chapter meeting arranged by
Marta Anna Petrasova, PCC, ICF Chapter President, with the
chapter leaders, members and individuals interested in learn-
ing more about coaching and ICF as a community.
Brennan and Tweedie meet with ICF European Leaders.
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• Ginger Cockerham, MCC, ICF Vice President, and Boyler
were special guests at the ICF Washington DC/Metro Chapter
annual meeting with over 200 attendees.
• Boyler attended the initial focus group for the ICF Coach-
ing Client Study held in the New York offices of Pricewater-
houseCoopers.
• Mook traveled to the United Kingdom for the UK Chapter’s
Corporate Day which focused on coaching in organizations.
She also attended the final client focus group for the ICF
Coaching Client Study with PricewaterhouseCoopers.
july • Brennan participated as a workgroup facilitator at the Global
Convention of Coaching (GCC) in Dublin, Ireland. Over 60
coaches from 16 countries engaged in an intense weeklong
process and in conclusion created a declaration for coaching
along with summaries for each workgroup topic. The declara-
tion aligns with ICF’s strategic mission and our effort to
outreach to other organizations as we work toward advancing
coaching as a profession. While in Dublin, Brennan also con-
nected with the ICF Ireland Chapter.
auGust• Global ICF Board Member Sylviane Cannio, PCC, spoke
about Coaching Cases at the launch celebration of ICF Peru.
oCtober • Brennan attended the first McLean Hospital /Harvard Medical
School Conference, a two-day event that put evidence-based
coaching and a call for coaching research on the world map.
• Global ICF Board member Philip Brew, MCC, attended the
UK ICF Chapter event Make a Difference that focused on
how coaches can make a difference in areas of local com-
munity, global community, education and sustainability. Sir
John Whitmore, 2007 ICF President’s Award winner, was the
keynote speaker.
noveMber• The global ICF Board held their final face-to-face meeting
prior to the ICF Annual International Conference in Montréal,
Québec, Canada. Brennan, Tweedie, Mook, Boyler and 2008
ICF Secretary/Treasurer Giovanna D’Alessio, MCC, had meet-
ings with representatives of ACTO, GSAEC and the EMCC
during the Annual Conference.
• D’Alessio spoke at the third Conference about Coaching in
Slovakia, a joint effort of the Slovak Association of Coaches
and the ICF Chapter in Slovakia.
• Global ICF Board Member Ira Dressner, PCC, addressed
attendees at the first ICF Norway Conference in Oslo.
• Brennan spoke at the OD Coaching Corner, held by the
University of Pennsylvania, on the topic of coaching and
behavioral change.
DeCeMber• Brennan, Tweedie and Mook met with the ICF European
Leaders group in Prague, Czech Republic. Mook and Brennan
presented a session on ethics in coaching during the EMCC
meeting. While in Prague, Brennan and Tweedie held a ses-
sion on trends in organizational coaching for HR specialists.
The event was organized by the ICF Czech Chapter.
ICF leaders outreach around the Globe (cont.)
Cannio with ICF Peru members.
D’Alessio addresses coaches in Slovakia.
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eleCtIons For 2009 ICF boarD oF DIreCtors In March 2008, ICF bylaws were updated to reflect several
changes, including a change in the selection of officers for the
organization. According to the revised bylaws, officers—three
vice-presidents and secretary/treasurer—were elected by
eligible Board members from their peers.
ICF Credentialed members continued to enjoy the privi-
lege of voting for future ICF leaders on the Board including
the President-Elect and Directors.
Seventeen candidates from five countries submitted ap-
plications to serve on the Board of Directors in 2009, reflective
of the great international make up of ICF’s membership. After
a month of intense deliberation, the 2008 ICF Nominating
Committee proposed a slate of six ICF Credentialed coaches
from three countries to fill the open president-elect and direc-
tor positions on the 2009 global ICF Board of Directors.
For the first time in ICF history, a European candidate,
Giovanna D’Alessio, MCC, was elected as ICF President-Elect
to serve as the organization’s president in 2010.
CoaChFeDeratIon.orG enhanCeMentsThe ICF continued to enhance its online presence in 2008
with improvements to its official Web site, Coachfederation.
org, while preparing for a major site redesign in early 2009.
Web site enhancements were largely directed by member feed-
back to the ICF Marketing Survey in early 2008.
To honor their commitment and contributions of former
ICF leaders, a Past President’s page was added in March, which
lists a history of the organization’s presidents with photo-
graphs, brief bios, contact information, lessons learned, words
of wisdom and more for each former president.
To better serve our global membership, three language
microsites of Coachfederation.org were developed in French,
German, and Spanish. These were the greatest language prefer-
ences indicated by the ICF Marketing Survey. These microsites,
which launched in August, provide translation of key docu-
ments and information and will be expanded in the future.
During 2008, each microsite received over 27,000 visits
each – Spanish: 28,404; French: 28,574; German: 27,273.
InternatIonal CoaChInG week 2008The ICF celebrated International Coaching Week February
3–9, 2008. During this annual celebration of the coaching pro-
fession, ICF Chapters and members across the world hosted
special events to create awareness and demonstrate the value
of working with a Personal, Business or Executive Coach.
Coaches offered a variety of activities and pro-bono
services in their communities during the week, including free
coaching sessions, lectures and workshops. This was the tenth
year International Coaching Week has been celebrated, origi-
nating in 1999 by Coach Jerri N. Udelson, MCC, from Santa
Fe, New Mexico, USA.
International Coaching Week is celebrated the first week
of February each year.
CoaChInG worlD uPDatesThe ICF made its monthly e-newsletter Coaching World
available to the public in April, displaying a link to each new
issue prominently on the home page of Coachfederation.org
and no longer requiring members to enter login/password
information to access the newsletter.
In addition to going public, features such as more bylined
articles from members, an Ask the Board column, and more
photographs and graphics were included. All the while, staff
looked ahead working on further redesign and enhancement
for 2009.
MarketInG surveyThe in-house ICF Marketing Survey was conducted dur-
ing a 21-day period in February and March, resulting in 692
responses from ICF members. The survey polled members on
their usage of various ICF marketing materials and services.
Results guided many initiatives throughout the year such as
the three new language microsites of Coachfederation.org and
user-friendly enhancements to the ICF Online Community,
Coaching World, and more.
orGanIzatIonal Partner CounCIlIn 2008, the ICF began first-stage development of the ICF
Organizational Partner Council, a unique group to be com-
prised of corporations, organizations and government institu-
tions utilizing and promoting coaching everyday.
By serving on this council, organizations will have the distinct
opportunity to influence Business and Executive Coaching and
additional Milestones of the year 2008
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InternatIonal CoaCh FederatIon
w w w . c o a c h f e d e r a t i o n . o r g
www.CoaChFederatIon.org
additional Milestones of the year 2008 (cont.)offer direction, insight, and creativity to enhance the coach-
ing culture of the future. Through this assembly, the ICF will
expand communications and outreach to top tier business and
organizational outlets to build ICF’s corporate reputation and
elevate the practice of coaching into the mainstream by show-
casing best practices with documented return on investment.
ICF FounDatIonIn January 2008, the ICF Board authorized the Execu-
tive Committee to work with staff to establish the first formal
Board of Trustees for the Foundation, including developing
the job descriptions and charge for the Board. The Foundation
exists as a separate nonprofit entity from the ICF and exists
exclusively for education, research and charitable purposes in
professional coaching.
the 2008 boarD oF trustees InCluDeD:Kay Cannon, MCC – President
Karen Tweedie, PCC – Treasurer
Ginger Cockerham, MCC – Vice President
Barbara Walton, MCC – Vice President
InCreaseD ChaPter webInarsIn 2008, the ICF offered 29 Webinars to Chapter Leaders.
These best practice Webinars helped assist chapter leaders with
retention, recruitment, strategic planning, knowledge-based
decisions, revenue generation and leadership skills. Plans are
in place to include the Regional Service Centres in facilitating
more chapter leader Webinars and Virtual Education calls that
are scheduled during their region’s business hours. Webinars
are archived on the ICF Web site in the Virtual Education sec-
tion. Audio recordings are provided for most calls.
CoDe oF ethICs revIseDTo remain fair and objective, the ICF must maintain a
Code of Ethics that not only protects the public, but also clari-
fies and educates both the public and coaches about the ethical
implications of coaching.
In 2008, the Ethics and Standards Committee completed
the scheduled three-year review and update to the 2005 ICF
Code of Ethics. The 2008 Code, approved by the ICF Board of
Directors, effectively reflects our global membership, clarifies
ethical choices, and addresses concerns of coaches working
within organizations. One specific improvement is the addi-
tion of definitions for client, sponsor, coaching, professional
coaching, and ICF professional coaching. The revised version
of the Code truly reflects the complexity of our profession.
The 2008 Ethics and Standards Committee was made up
of a team of coaches from all over the world including Europe,
Asia, North America and Latin America.
euroPean CoMMunICatIon auDIt ConDuCteDIn an effort to evaluate how effective communications
from the ICF are in certain geographic areas, an outside
vendor was hired to review materials and provide recommen-
dations.
In MeMorIaM
MICHAEL R. GOLDSTEIN, MCC
President and Founder
of COACH2000 Inc.
Died April 15, 2008.
SUSAN RACE, PCC
Founding member of the
Philadelphia Area Coaches
Alliance (PACA) ICF Chapter
Died August 5, 2008.
InternatIonal CoaCh FederatIon
22
www.CoaChFederatIon.org
w w w . c o a c h f e d e r a t i o n . o r g
Financial overview
FIsCal year 2009 (enDInG MarCh 31, 2009)
Pending Audit
All figures shown Are in usd.
For Fiscal Year 2009, the ICF realized net income of $533,595
which becomes the annual contribution to reserves.
Other points of interest include the following:
NET INCOME FOR FY 2009
WAS $41,806 MORE THAN FY 2008.
Although the results for the Annual International Conference
revenue were down ($67,407) versus budget, the shortfall was
made up by savings on budget Conference expenses such as
Food and Beverage, Speaker Honorarium and Expenses, and
Exhibit Sales Commissions, and the overall gain from the
Conference was $88,170.
MEMBERSHIP INCOME
ExCEEDED BUDGET BY $295,268.
PROGRAM INCOME
ExCEEDED BUDGET BY $24,065.
With net income projected to be $533,595, the reserve balance
will be approximately $1,860,414. This is pending any changes
resulting from the audit.
To insure financial stability and be appropriately prudent, the
ICF needs to achieve a reserve equal to six months operat-
ing expenses. The association has yet to achieve this amount,
currently equivalent to $2 million, and requiring an additional
contribution of $139, 586.
FY09 YTD Revenue by Source
Administrative(Interest)24,896
2%
FY09 YTD Expense by Source
Membership2,636,551
59%
Conference 20081,205,468
28%
Programs509,082
12%
Administrative499,530
13%
Committees451,274
12%
Membership562,650
15%
Conference1,117,299
29%
Programs485,017
13%
Research & Development206,533
5%
Regional Service69,561
2%
Web/Tech89,943
2%
PublicRelations364,749
9%
Total Revenue for FY09: $4,380,144.22
Total Expenses for FY09: $3,846,594.68
All figures shown are in USD.
FY09 YTD Revenue by Source
Administrative(Interest)24,896
2%
FY09 YTD Expense by Source
Membership2,636,551
59%
Conference 20081,205,468
28%
Programs509,082
12%
Administrative499,530
13%
Committees451,274
12%
Membership562,650
15%
Conference1,117,299
29%
Programs485,017
13%
Research & Development206,533
5%
Regional Service69,561
2%
Web/Tech89,943
2%
PublicRelations364,749
9%
Total Revenue for FY09: $4,380,144.22
Total Expenses for FY09: $3,846,594.68
All figures shown are in USD.
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InternatIonal CoaCh FederatIon
w w w . c o a c h f e d e r a t i o n . o r g
www.CoaChFederatIon.org
working toward our envisioned Goal
In 2008, the ICF continued to expand
our global reach and achieve unprec-
edented growth and recognition in all
regions of the world.
Many milestones were reached this
year due to our dedicated and talented
members and volunteer leaders. As we
look toward the future, there are still
a number of challenges and opportu-
nities to address through our global
coaching community. Our passionate
and engaged membership will continue
to meet those challenges and seize
opportunities to make coaching an
integral part of society.
Collectively, with a strategic
knowledge-based approach, we can
continue to advance the art, science
and practice of the coaching profession
and reach ever higher levels of
accomplishment and success.
InternatIonal CoaCh FederatIon
24
www.CoaChFederatIon.org
w w w . c o a c h f e d e r a t i o n . o r g
your ICF staFFGary E. Boyler Executive Director
Magdalena Mook Assistant Executive Director
Jessica GentryAdministrative Assistant
CreDentIalInG anD ProGraM aCCreDItatIonGeorge Rogers Director of Credentialing & Program Accreditation
Wesley Bullock Credentialing and Program Accreditation Coordinator
Brittany Clark Credentialing and Programs Training Coordinator
Sherrie Harvey Credentialing Coordinator
Meaghan Thomas Credentialing Coordinator
MarketInG/PublIC relatIonsAnn BelcherMarketing Manager
Kristin HogueMarketing Coordinator
Amy W. RichardsonMarketing Coordinator
MeetInGs anD eventsDenise StenzelDirector of Meetings and Events
Jackie BurtonEvent Coordinator
MeMbershIP Don WhittleDirector of Membership
reGIonal servICe Centre ManaGersIsabelle MaesFiena Toy
researCh anD eDuCatIonMark RuthResearch and Education Manager
salesJosh CaseySales Account Executive
Annual report designed by Adam MartinMartin Design Studio, LLC // www.amartindesign.com
International Coach Federation Headquarters
2365 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite A325Lexington, KY 40504
Phone: 888.423.3131 (toll-free) +1.859.219.3580 Fax: +1.859.226.4411
E-mail: [email protected]
ICF Regional Service Centres (RSCs)
Asia-Pacific
Phone (within Australia): 02 4340 8848 Phone (outside Australia): +61 2 4340 8848
Fax (within Australia): 02 4340 2122 Fax (outside Australia): +61 2 4340 2122
E-mail: [email protected]
EMEA (Europe, Middle East, Africa)
Tel: +32 53 39 34 52Fax: +32 53 39 37 19
E-mail: [email protected]