David Bertrand

Dr. David W. Bertrand is an award-winning scholar, leadership coach, and educator with over two decades of experience at the intersection of human development, high-performance coaching, and organizational effectiveness. Earning top honors at Harvard’s Institute of Coaching conference, David is widely respected for translating evidence-based leadership research into practical, high-impact solutions.

He is experienced and skilled in working with executives at all levels from C-Suite to high potentials, as well as with teams and staff.

David partners with leading organizations such as Toyota, Zurich North America, Energy Transfer, and Interstate Batteries. He also works with top institutions like SMU Cox School of Business, Ariel Group, and Leadership Delta Partners to deliver transformational coaching, executive education, and team optimization. His work spans 1:1 leadership coaching, executive selection, keynote speaking, and customized programs focused on elite team effectiveness, accountability, and qualities of extraordinary leaders.

At the heart of David’s approach is a personal commitment to championing human potential. He is driven by a deep belief that every individual and team has the capacity for greatness with the right challenge, support, and mindset. He brings a competitive spirit, collaborative style, and a values-based perspective to every engagement. Passionate and results-oriented, he creates environments where people feel empowered to do their best work while staying grounded in purpose and trust.

Drawing on experiences with Olympic gold medalists, Division I championship coaches, and Navy SEALs, David helps clients reach peak performance and clarity under pressure. His curiosity about what defines great coaching, leadership, and success has shaped his approach by guiding his path both personally and professionally. David lives in the Dallas area with his wife, Nikki, and their three children. Outside of work, he finds renewal on the trail or mountain bike, always pursuing growth, resilience, and joy in the journey.

David is currently based in Dallas, Texas.

Certification

• Everything DiSC®
• The Five Behaviors®
• The Leadership Circle Profile™
• Hogan Assessments®
• Collective Leadership Assessment
• Leadership Practices Inventory (LPI)
• Positive Coaching Solutions
• BRITE

Education

• Ed.D., Higher Education and Leadership, Southern Methodist University
• M.S.Ed., Human Performance, Baylor University
• B.B.A., Management Information Systems (cum laude), Baylor University

Practice Areas

• 360-degree Feedback
• Executive Coaching
• Executive Team Cohesion & Effectiveness
• Executive Retreat Facilitation
• Leadership Development
• Transition and Performance Coaching

Client Feedback

• “Dr. Bertrand is one-of-a-kind. He can perfectly balance the academic insight coupled with decades of experience/practicality to infiltrate his sessions with an equilibrium of tactics and strategy. On top of that…he is an incredible storyteller and a great facilitator. Even after our program ended…I requested continuing ‘education’ from David…he’s worth the investment! A+++”
• “David exceeded my expectations with regard to knowledge and professionalism. He is a fantastic communicator and has a superb understanding of his client’s needs. He is without a doubt a great coach and person!”
• “David Bertrand is one of the best leadership coaches I have ever had the pleasure to work with. He was a change agent in shifting our culture through The 5 Behaviors of a Cohesive Team. His influence made a lasting impact through his ability to connect with leaders at all levels and drive measurable behavior change. And, most importantly, he’s just an all-around great guy who is easy to relate to and makes leadership development fun.”