The Leona Group Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Dedicated to advancing educational outcomes, The Leona Group provides comprehensive management services across multiple states, driving academic excellence and operational efficiency in the education sector.

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 drives the company's mission to deliver academic, business, and operational support, alongside crucial school start-up assistance across Arizona, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. This leadership role involves setting the vision for educational innovation and ensuring the effective implementation of programs that enhance student learning and institutional effectiveness. By focusing on sustainable growth and market leadership, William Coats guides the organization's expansion and its commitment to quality education. The strategic initiatives developed under Coats' guidance directly influence the company's impact on the communities it serves, reinforcing its position as a key player in educational management.

    Patrick Lawrence - Chief Financial Officer

    Patrick Lawrence, the Chief Financial Officer at The Leona Group, oversees all financial planning, management, and reporting activities for the educational management service provider. Lawrence is responsible for fiscal strategy, budget allocation, and ensuring the financial health and sustainability of operations across Arizona, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. This critical role involves managing investments, optimizing financial performance, and providing insights that support strategic decision-making for the company and its partner schools. By maintaining rigorous financial controls and driving fiscal responsibility, Patrick Lawrence ensures that The Leona Group can effectively fund its mission of providing comprehensive academic, business, and operational support. The financial stewardship under Lawrence's direction is fundamental to the organization's capacity for growth and its commitment to delivering value.

    Michele Kaye - Chief Operating Officer

    Michele Kaye, the Chief Operating Officer at The Leona Group, directs the day-to-day operational execution of educational management services across multiple states. Kaye oversees the delivery of academic, business, and operational support, ensuring that all functions operate with maximum efficiency and effectiveness to meet the needs of schools in Arizona, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. This leadership position involves managing resources, optimizing service delivery models, and implementing best practices to enhance the operational framework of the organization. By focusing on scalable solutions and continuous improvement, Michele Kaye ensures that The Leona Group consistently provides high-quality support for school start-ups and ongoing management. The operational strategies implemented under Kaye's purview are vital to the company's ability to expand its reach and impact within the education sector.

    Eddie Wheeler - Chief of Staff

    Eddie Wheeler, the Chief of Staff at The Leona Group, manages critical internal operations and facilitates strategic execution across the organization. Wheeler ensures seamless coordination between departments, supporting the Chief Executive Officer in driving key initiatives and maintaining operational alignment with the company's educational mission. This role involves optimizing internal processes, enhancing communication channels, and providing direct support for high-priority projects that advance The Leona Group's service delivery in Arizona, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. By streamlining workflows and fostering collaboration, Eddie Wheeler contributes significantly to the efficiency and effectiveness of the management services provided. The focus remains on supporting the strategic objectives set forth by leadership, ensuring that operational efforts directly translate into improved academic and business outcomes for the schools served.

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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.