In many client conversations, it comes as a surprise that in organizations succeeding with strategy execution, there is at least one person whose main job is strategy execution. It is work. It is a role.
By Henri Sora, Founder, Sora Consulting · 5 June 2026
The role goes by many names:
These responsibilities can also be embedded in the increasingly popular Chief of Staff role.
In the book Implementing OKRs, we used the term torchbearer for this role. The person brings light and direction to the organization, which is why we chose the name. In our view, this role requires the ability to spark enthusiasm in others, and the name reflects that. The torchbearer also trains and supports people throughout the organization's OKR journey.
I would argue that this role is essential for strategy execution to work at all. Strategy belongs to the CEO, but the CEO needs a right hand for this work. It is work.
Mare has written a strong piece on the responsibilities and requirements of the role.
Once someone has been chosen for the role, they need the skills. Sometimes those skills are already in place. Sometimes training helps.
We run the Certified OKR Professional Coach training regularly, designed for exactly this role. It develops the organization's internal Strategy Execution Lead both in method and leadership stance.
Want to talk about how the Strategy Execution Lead role would work in your organization? Get in touch.
Mare's article on the role's core responsibilities at the operational level.
Certification training for the organization's internal Strategy Execution Lead. Method and leadership stance.
Henri Sora, Mare Grannenfelt, and internationally certified OKR coaches.