Who We Are

Shy Lion Co. is a premier leadership and executive coaching firm that harnesses the transformative power of emotional intelligence to elevate leadership capabilities worldwide.

Founded on the principle that emotional intelligence is the cornerstone of exceptional leadership, Shy Lion Co. has dedicated itself to pioneering a nuanced approach to executive coaching that emphasizes the profound impact of emotional awareness and regulation on leadership effectiveness, resilience, and interpersonal dynamics.

Through our commitment to understanding and developing the emotional intelligence of each leader, Shy Lion Co. ensures that our clients are not just prepared to meet the challenges of today's fast-paced business environment, but are also equipped to foster a culture of empathy, innovation, and sustained growth within their organizations.

Originally from Canada, Ismail has traversed the globe, accumulating a rich tapestry of experiences in major cities like Calgary, London and New York, before settling in Chicago with his wife and two sons. His academic background is robust, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce and a Masters in Industrial & Organizational Psychology, with a specialization in mentoring and emotional intelligence. He is well known for his innovative approach and extensive global experience. He brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique international perspective to his work.

Ismail’s expertise is further bolstered by his certification as a Master Coach in Emotional Intelligence Training. His career has been marked by significant achievements in the corporate world, having worked with some of the largest Fortune 500 financial institutions and consulting firms. He is particularly acclaimed for his skill in building and growing geographically dispersed teams, demonstrating a unique ability to manage and motivate individuals across diverse cultural landscapes.

Ismail Qadry

Founder & Managing Director

Meet the Team

Christian Schmidt brings years of experience in sustainable business practices and innovative leadership to his role as a Partner and Senior Advisor at Shy Lion Co. With a strong educational foundation, including a Bachelor's degree in Commerce and a Masters in Environmental Studies and Sustainability Science, Christian has dedicated his career to integrating environmental consciousness within the business sector.

At the helm of Black Sheep Mattress Company, which he founded and is still the owner, Christian and his team have been changing the mattress industry by emphasizing sustainability as a core value and practice. His commitment to integrity, quality, and compassion is evident in every aspect of the business.

In his advisory role, Christian leverages his experiences and knowledge to guide executives towards implementing sustainable, impactful business strategies. His vision and guidance encourage a future of ethical business practices, making him a valuable asset to any organization seeking to navigate the complexities of modern business with a conscience.

Partner & Senior Advisor

Christian Schmidt

Our mission

Our mission is to empower leaders across the globe to transcend traditional leadership boundaries through the mastery of emotional intelligence. We are dedicated to transforming leadership skills, enabling leaders to connect with their teams and stakeholders on a profound level. Through personalized coaching, evidence-based strategies, and a deep commitment to each individual's growth, we strive to unlock the full potential of every leader we work with. Our approach ensures that leaders not only excel in their roles but also create environments where empathy, understanding, and genuine connections flourish, leading to sustainable and impactful organizational success.

Our vision

Our vision is to be the catalyst for a global leadership revolution, where emotional intelligence is at the core of effective leadership. We aspire to create a world where leaders lead with heart and mind, fostering environments of trust, respect, and unparalleled collaboration. We envision organizations where the power of emotional intelligence is harnessed to not only achieve but exceed business objectives, while also enhancing the well-being and satisfaction of every team member. Through our relentless pursuit of excellence in leadership coaching, we aim to inspire a shift towards more empathetic, connected, and transformative leadership practices that benefit individuals, organizations, and society as a whole