About Your Coach Désirée 
 
 Image of the character Cloud Strife from the game Final Fantasty VII: Rebirth

"Will you all come with me?"
Cloud Strife,
Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth

Characters Matter
I’ve always believed in the power of compelling characters. They’re the heart of every unforgettable story...the ones we root for, grow with, and sometimes even become. Characters show us what’s possible. They reveal how courage, clarity, and conviction can reshape a life and a legacy.

One character who’s always stayed with me is Cloud Strife. His journey in Final Fantasy VII involves grappling with identity, confronting a fragmented past, and ultimately forging his own future. This is a story of deep self-discovery. And honestly, who can’t relate to that? His arc reminds us that true strength comes not from certainty, but from choosing who we become in the face of complexity.

And Cloud’s words? They capture the very heart of my leadership philosophy.

My Leadership Philosophy

“…I’m not a hero. Never was. I’m just a guy who’s trying to do the right thing.”
– Cloud Strife
Many pursue leadership thinking it’s about holding power. But I believe leadership—real leadership—is about shared purpose. In a democratic society, authority flows from people, not positions. And over 24 years in both public and private sectors, I’ve learned that the most effective leaders don’t command—they invite. They don’t say “Follow me” with force; they ask, with quiet confidence:

“Will you come with me?”
That single question, rooted in humility and vision, creates trust. It fosters belonging. It inspires others to choose the journey with you, not because they have to, but because they want to.

At Character Arc Leadership Coaching, I help you become the kind of leader whose story inspires a resounding “Yes.”

So…
Will you come with me?
Professional Resume
To view a traditional listing of my work experience, please click below:





Portrait of Désirée Santiago, Founder of Character Arc Leadership Coaching LLC
Portrait of Désirée Santiago in cosplay as character Yuffie from game Final Fantasy VII
Portrait of Désirée Santiago in cosplay as character Arya Stark from Game of Thrones
 Portrait of Désirée Santiago in cosplay as character Claire Redfield from Resident Evil, with other cosplayers

My Origin Story

Have you ever felt like you’re standing at a pivotal moment in your leadership journey? Called to evolve, to lead with more clarity, or to reconnect with a deeper sense of purpose?

I believe every leader is living a story...and you have the power to author yours with intention.

My journey into leadership coaching began long before I ever held the title. As a child, I was captivated by the transformational arcs of characters in fantasy novels, role-playing games, and timeless literature. These stories weren’t just entertainment to me—they were lessons in courage, resilience, and becoming. I came to understand something profound: that stories hold the blueprint for growth, and that we become who we’re meant to be not in spite of our challenges, but because of them.

This storytelling lens carried into a 24-year career as a Federal Human Capital Leader. I led efforts in strategic recruitment, organizational design, and employer branding—but at the heart of every initiative was one central thread: people. I saw the untold narratives behind every resume, every transition, every leader. My work was about helping individuals find their voice in complex systems, align their unique talents with meaningful work, and lead from a place of authenticity and purpose.

Coaching wasn’t a pivot for me, it was a natural next chapter.

As a certified Gallup Global Strengths Coach, I now partner with leaders who are ready to evolve their leadership narrative. I blend the science of strengths-based development with the art of story because leadership isn’t just about outcomes, it’s about becoming. It’s about rising into your values, embracing your turning points, and leading from the truth of who you are.

Through Character Arc Leadership Coaching, I help you identify the themes shaping your leadership today and rewrite what comes next. Together, we’ll explore your defining moments, uncover the strengths you may have overlooked, and chart a path that’s not just strategic, but soulful.

Because when you lead from your story with intention, insight, and integrity you don’t just change your trajectory...you invite others to rise with you.

Are you ready to author the next powerful chapter of your leadership story?


My Promise
At Character Arc Leadership Coaching, I promise to be your dedicated partner in transformation.

I will listen deeply, not just to the words you speak, but to the aspirations, challenges, and untapped potential beneath the surface. Together, we will uncover and strategically leverage your innate  strengths, illuminating the unique talents that reside within you.

This journey is about more than just setting goals; it's about unlocking your personal "character arc" – the powerful narrative of your growth and evolution. Through our work, you will step into the most authentic, unique, and powerful version of yourself, ready to lead with purpose, impact, and unwavering confidence.

Your extraordinary future awaits.

Ready to schedule a complimentary consultation?

Contact me and let me know how I can help rewrite your story!