Meet Your Independent Career Development Coach - Dr. Justin Lawhead

With over 30 years of transformative leadership in higher education and career development, Justin has established himself as a strategic educational executive who consistently delivers meaningful student and professional success. His career spans dean and associate vice president roles where he's revolutionized student affairs operations and helped guide thousands of emerging professionals through critical career transitions.

Today, he channels his expertise into helping individuals and organizations achieve sustainable growth through the alignment of personal strengths and professional competencies. As a catalyst for professional transformation, Justin creates the framework professionals need to thrive at the intersection of career planning, personal development, and workplace excellence. He's particularly passionate about building resilient career pathways that evolve with changing workplace landscapes, drawing from his experience guiding countless students and professionals at the University of Memphis and achieving remarkable career advancement outcomes despite challenging economic conditions.

Justin combines proven educational leadership with relationship-building excellence to help career-minded professionals discover and fulfill their potential. Starting June 1, 2025, he will serve as the Assistant Vice President for Career Readiness and Post-Graduate Success at the University of South Carolina, further expanding his impact on career development in higher education.

Justin’s Services

Career Readiness

Coaching to equip you with essential skills, strategies, and confidence to successfully navigate job searches, interviews, and career launches, bridging the gap between education and professional success.

Professional Development

Through personalized coaching and targeted skill-building, identify growth opportunities, develop leadership capabilities, and create actionable advancement plans that align with both personal values and industry demands.

Workplace Transitions

Get the strategic guidance and emotional support you need to navigating career changes, promotions, or organizational shifts, ensuring smooth transitions that maximize potential while minimizing disruption.