What does a Chief of Staff actually do?
+
A Chief of Staff operates as the executive's force multiplier — managing strategic priorities, aligning cross-functional teams, and ensuring that decisions translate into action. Unlike an executive assistant who manages schedules and logistics, a CoS owns outcomes: they run operating rhythms, prepare decision memos, manage special projects, and serve as the connective tissue between the executive and the rest of the organization. The CoS-OS™ methodology breaks this role into four archetypes: Operations, Strategy, Transformation, and Executive.
What is the difference between a Chief of Staff and an Executive Assistant?
+
While both roles support executives, the distinction is scope and authority. An EA manages the executive's time, calendar, and communications. A Chief of Staff manages the executive's priorities, decisions, and organizational alignment. A CoS typically has authority to make decisions on the executive's behalf, lead cross-functional initiatives, and represent the executive in meetings. Think of it this way: the EA ensures the executive's day runs smoothly; the CoS ensures the executive's strategy gets executed.
What is CoS-OS™ and how does it work?
+
CoS-OS™ (Chief of Staff Operating System) is a proprietary methodology created by Michelle DeFouw that gives leaders a structured framework for executive-level operations. It includes the D.A.R.E. framework (Decisions, Alignment, Rhythm, Execution), an archetype assessment system that identifies your leadership style, and practical tools for running operating rhythms, decision processes, and strategic planning. Whether you hold the CoS title or simply operate at that level, the system helps you think and execute like an executive operator.
How do the AI transformation sprints work?
+
Find MAC offers three structured engagement levels for AI implementation. The 30-Day Sprint establishes your AI foundation — auditing current capabilities, identifying high-impact use cases, and deploying initial AI agents. The 90-Day Sprint scales what works across departments with custom workflows, team training, and measurable ROI tracking. The 365-Day Sprint is a full enterprise transformation that embeds AI into your operating model, builds internal AI capability, and creates a self-sustaining innovation engine. Each sprint builds on the previous one.
Who is Find MAC for?
+
Find MAC serves two audiences. First, Chiefs of Staff and executive operators — whether you hold the title formally or operate in that capacity — who want a structured methodology for managing up, running operating rhythms, and driving strategic execution. Second, organizations and executive teams looking for structured AI transformation, from initial capability assessment through full enterprise deployment. Both tracks are connected by the same principle: building operating systems that turn strategy into execution.
What is the CEO Archetype Quiz?
+
The CEO Archetype Quiz is a free assessment that identifies your executive leadership style across four archetypes. Understanding your archetype helps you leverage your natural strengths, identify blind spots, and build a complementary team. It takes about 5 minutes to complete and you receive personalized results with actionable recommendations for your leadership development.
How do I join the Chiefs of Staff Circle?
+
The Chiefs of Staff Circle is a community hosted on Mighty Networks for current and aspiring Chiefs of Staff. Inside you'll find peer discussions, resource libraries, the free webinar series, and direct access to the CoS-OS™ methodology in practice. You can join by visiting the Circle landing page through the link on our Executive OS page or in the footer navigation.
