Who We Are
Matt Rivers
Strategic Advisor | Executive Coach | Leadership Trainer
Matt is a dynamic and transformative mentor who has honed his leadership skills in diverse arenas and can guide you to success through servant leadership. A Director of Operations at SHIELD Illinois, whose extensive background spanning over 15 years in leadership roles across various sectors positions him as an ideal choice for executive coaching, leadership training, and strategic consultation.
Matt brings a wealth of experience, underscoring his proficiency in cultivating teams, driving strategic initiatives, and embracing servant leadership. With a strong commitment to nurturing individuals and solving intricate problems, Matt is your go-to mentor for executive coaching and leadership development.
Diverse Leadership Background: Matt's leadership journey is a tapestry woven with diverse experiences. From his pioneering days as a member of the City of Dallas' trailblazing accident mitigation division to his influential role in shaping the success of SHIELD Illinois' Field Operations and Regional Operations Network, his impact has been profound. His leadership capabilities have traversed various domains, giving him a unique perspective on handling challenges and driving growth.
Invaluable Public Safety Experience: Matt's formative years as a dedicated police officer laid the foundation for his remarkable ability to make decisions under pressure. Responding to 911 calls for service, investigating minor and major offenses, and also serving as a Patrol Supervisor and Detective, Matt honed his skills in the crucible of real-world, pressure-packed situations. This invaluable experience taught him to think on his feet, make critical decisions swiftly, and maintain composure in high-stress scenarios.
Strategic Vision and Innovation: Matt's legacy of achievement shines brightly. Leading Shield Illinois' procurement and supply chain management for 10 laboratories showcased his strategic foresight, meticulous planning, and adept partnership-building skills. The launch of a laboratory within four months and the statewide provision of vital COVID-19 testing services underscore his prowess in navigating complexity and ensuring success.
Continuous Learning and Resilience: Matt's commitment to lifelong learning, exemplified by his pursuit of an MBA degree and Lean Six Sigma certification, is a testament to his growth-oriented mindset. His achievements as an author, performing musician, and marathon runner showcase his discipline, dedication, and resilience—a reflection of his ability to overcome challenges.
Coaching and Mentoring Excellence: Matt's impact extends beyond his professional roles. His commitment to coaching and mentoring has catalyzed the upward trajectories of many individuals who now occupy upper management positions. His ability to impart wisdom, foster growth, and shape the future leaders of tomorrow sets him apart as a transformative mentor.
Mission to Create Positive Change: Driven by purpose and compassion, Matt's mission is to solve challenging problems that create a lasting positive impact. Having fulfilled his mission at SHIELD Illinois, he now seeks to channel his experience, knowledge, and wisdom into guiding, coaching, and enabling other leaders.
Matt Rivers' journey, fortified by his experience and his dedication to servant leadership, and his capacity to thrive under pressure, positions him as a quintessential executive coach, leadership trainer, and strategic advisor.