The Leona Group Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

The Leona Group has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, and administration.

Driven by a commitment to educational excellence, The Leona Group provides comprehensive management services, supporting academic and operational success across multiple states and fostering school start-up initiatives.

Leadership Roles at The Leona Group

  • Founder & Chief Executive Officer - William Coats
  • Chief Financial Officer - Patrick Lawrence
  • Chief Operating Officer - Michele Kaye
  • Chief of Staff - Eddie Wheeler
  • William Coats - Founder & Chief Executive Officer

    William Coats, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer at The Leona Group, architects the overarching strategic direction and operational philosophy for the educational management services provider. Coats guides the organization's expansion and service delivery across Arizona, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio, ensuring alignment with the company's mission to support academic and business operations. This leadership role involves setting the vision for school start-up support and fostering an environment of continuous improvement within the educational sector. William Coats drives the long-term growth initiatives and maintains the core values that define The Leona Group's impact on student success and institutional development. The Founder & Chief Executive Officer's strategic insights are crucial for navigating the evolving landscape of educational management and solidifying the group's market position.

    Patrick Lawrence - Chief Financial Officer

    Patrick Lawrence, the Chief Financial Officer at The Leona Group, directs all financial planning, management, and reporting activities. Lawrence oversees the fiscal health of the organization, managing budgets, financial forecasts, and investment strategies to support the company's operational expansion across Arizona, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. This critical role ensures the efficient allocation of resources for academic programs, business operations, and school start-up initiatives. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise is vital for maintaining financial stability and driving sustainable growth, directly impacting the group's capacity to deliver high-quality educational support services. Patrick Lawrence's stewardship of financial resources underpins the organization's ability to achieve its strategic objectives and enhance its market presence.

    Michele Kaye - Chief Operating Officer

    Michele Kaye, the Chief Operating Officer at The Leona Group, manages the day-to-day business and operational functions across all service areas. Kaye ensures the seamless execution of academic support, business services, and school start-up initiatives throughout Arizona, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. This leadership position involves optimizing operational efficiency, implementing best practices, and overseeing the delivery of services to educational institutions. The Chief Operating Officer's focus on operational excellence directly contributes to the group's reputation for reliability and effectiveness. Michele Kaye's oversight of operational infrastructure is fundamental to supporting the company's mission and expanding its reach within the education sector, ensuring consistent quality and service delivery.

    Eddie Wheeler - Chief of Staff

    Eddie Wheeler, the Chief of Staff at The Leona Group, facilitates strategic initiatives and enhances organizational effectiveness across all departments. Wheeler supports the executive leadership team by managing key projects, streamlining communication, and ensuring the efficient implementation of company-wide strategies. This role is integral to coordinating efforts related to academic services, business operations, and school start-up support in Arizona, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. The Chief of Staff's ability to drive cross-functional collaboration is essential for achieving the group's mission and operational goals. Eddie Wheeler's contributions are vital for maintaining organizational alignment and maximizing the impact of The Leona Group's services in the educational landscape.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding The Leona Group Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads The Leona Group?
    The Leona Group is led by William Coats (Founder & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Patrick Lawrence (Chief Financial Officer) and Michele Kaye (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of The Leona Group’s executive team?
    The executive team of The Leona Group includes leaders such as William Coats (Founder & Chief Executive Officer), Patrick Lawrence (Chief Financial Officer), Michele Kaye (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does The Leona Group have?
    The Leona Group has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in The Leona Group’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of The Leona Group includes roles such as Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief of Staff.