The Leona Group Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Dedicated to advancing educational outcomes, The Leona Group provides comprehensive academic, business, and operational support, alongside school start-up assistance across multiple states, driving impactful learning environments.

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, directs the overarching strategy and vision for the educational management service provider. Coats establishes the core principles guiding academic excellence and operational efficiency across Arizona, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. This leadership role involves setting the long-term direction for school start-up support and business operations. By defining the company's mission, William Coats ensures alignment with educational goals and market needs. The Founder & Chief Executive Officer's influence extends to fostering innovation in educational delivery and management practices. This position is central to The Leona Group's commitment to improving learning environments through expert academic and business support.

    Patrick Lawrence - Chief Financial Officer

    Patrick Lawrence, the Chief Financial Officer at The Leona Group, directs all financial planning, management, and reporting activities. Lawrence is responsible for the fiscal health of the organization, managing budgets, investments, and financial strategy across its operational regions. This role involves ensuring financial stability and supporting the growth initiatives of The Leona Group in Arizona, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. By overseeing financial operations, Patrick Lawrence provides critical insights for strategic decision-making. The Chief Financial Officer's purview includes managing financial risks and optimizing capital allocation for academic and operational programs. Lawrence's financial leadership is essential for sustaining The Leona Group's mission and expanding its reach.

    Michele Kaye - Chief Operating Officer

    Michele Kaye, the Chief Operating Officer at The Leona Group, oversees the day-to-day business and operational functions, ensuring the effective delivery of services across all supported states. Kaye directs the implementation of strategies that enhance academic support and school start-up processes. This leadership position is critical for managing the operational scale of The Leona Group's presence in Arizona, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. By optimizing resource allocation and streamlining operational procedures, Michele Kaye drives efficiency and service quality. The Chief Operating Officer's focus includes ensuring compliance and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the organization. Kaye's operational oversight is fundamental to The Leona Group's mission of providing comprehensive educational management.

    Eddie Wheeler - Chief of Staff

    Eddie Wheeler, the Chief of Staff at The Leona Group, manages critical administrative functions and supports the strategic initiatives of the executive team. Wheeler ensures seamless operational flow and facilitates communication between departments, enhancing overall organizational effectiveness. This role involves coordinating key projects and driving process improvements across the company's service areas in Arizona, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. By optimizing internal workflows, Eddie Wheeler contributes to the efficient delivery of academic, business, and operational support. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include overseeing special assignments and ensuring executive priorities are met. This leadership position is vital for maintaining The Leona Group's operational integrity and supporting its mission of educational advancement.

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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.