Meet Suzanne Massel

Throughout my 30+ year legal career, I’ve successfully pivoted across roles, industries and organizations—as a litigation partner, in-house counsel, HR director, and business leader.

The consistent thread weaving through my career—and a great source of fulfillment—has been helping others navigate complex decisions by asking the right questions, uncovering what truly matters, mentoring, and offering strategic guidance. I discovered a similar satisfaction helping my children navigate the transition from college to career - witnessing enormous growth through this transformational milestone.

That passion inspired me to create Massel Coaching & Consulting where I help clients cut through the noise, reimagine their futures, and build strategic paths forward. Whether you're a lawyer or executive exploring a career change or navigating a transition, or a recent graduate embarking on your first career move, the core questions often remain the same: What do I really want? How do I get there? What’s next?

I bring decades of professional and personal experience to every coaching relationship, blending powerful questions, deep listening, and strategic insight. Having sat on both sides of the table – as a leader making hiring decisions and as someone navigating career transitions– I offer insight into what’s effective in today’s market.

I help clients clarify what lights them up, craft a narrative that reflects who they are and the value they bring, and take confident, informed steps forward.

I hold a J.D. from Washington University School of Law and a B.A. in Political Science from Tufts University. I am a Certified Professional Coach (CPC) and an Energy Leadership Index (ELI) Master Practitioner

In addition to client work, I am a Mentor with Chicago Scholars supporting ambitious students from under-resourced communities as they enroll in college, succeed while there, graduate and grow into future leaders.

I live in Chicago with my husband, where we raised two children. Helping guide them from their first jobs as teens to launching their careers has deepened my love of working with emerging professionals. When I’m not coaching, you’ll find me outdoors, gardening, playing pickleball, or enjoying live music.

A little bit more…