Executive coach for owner-leaders navigating hard decisions

Executive Coach and Retired CPA Tom Doescher

Hi, I’m Tom

I grew up in rural Michigan, the son of a mailman and a stay-at-home mom, surrounded by cornfields and community. I didn’t know any “business people.” What I did know was hard work, showing up, and treating people the way you want to be treated—respectfully, directly, and with their goals in mind.

In seventh grade, I planned to be a high school football coach. When I didn’t make the college team at Western Michigan, I assumed that meant I couldn’t coach. Instead, I spent forty years at Plante Moran—and discovered what I really am: a coach for business owners and leaders.

Over four decades at Plante Moran, I built and led the firm’s Manufacturing & Distribution practice, which became its largest industry group, and helped establish new Corporate Finance, Global Services, and ERP Implementation practices. I’ve advised privately owned manufacturers and distributors across several continents, learning that while every business is different, great leadership always comes down to integrity and follow-through.

I once ran for Managing Partner and lost—and I’m grateful. It confirmed what I already knew: I’m not the CEO. I’m the person next to the leader—the coach who clarifies strategy, pressure-tests plans, and prepares people for the hard conversations. That’s where I do my best work.

Today, I help owner-operators and executives navigate the moments where the stakes feel personal.

I listen deeply, tell the truth kindly, and help leaders act with confidence while bringing their people along.

If you lead a privately owned business—especially in manufacturing and distribution—and want a seasoned coach in your corner, let’s talk.

Respect. Directness. Loyalty. Helping people grow.

These are the values that have stuck with me throughout my life and career.

They’ve guided how I lead, how I advise, and how I help clients make the hard calls with clarity and confidence.

Tom’s Facts

I attended the Harvard Business School program for professional executives where I deepened my approach to leadership, strategy, and mentoring—skills I now bring to every coaching engagement.
My wife Barbara and I have led over 30 mission trips, all over the world. Two favorite destinations: Papua New Guinea and Cape Town South Africa
I play singles tennis twice a week and run four miles 3 - 4 times a week. I ski in Telluride every winter!