Lee Smithson Burd, Ph.D.

Lee Smithson Burd is a leadership coach in Kansas City who helps executives grow with clarity and confidence. As a Vice President at CMA Global, she partners with leaders navigating transition, increased scope, and complex organizational change.

Lee’s work focuses on executive coaching, assessment, succession planning, and family business consulting. She often supports first-time CEOs, high-potential leaders, and senior executives stepping into broader, more complex roles. Clients describe her as direct and deeply supportive. They value the way she challenges assumptions and helps them grow into more effective decision-makers.

With more than 25 years of experience, Lee draws on her deep knowledge of personality and behavior to help leaders strengthen awareness and performance. She leverages psychological assessment to guide insight, clarity, and better decision-making. Her work spans construction, healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and technology, industries where leadership often depends as much on people as process.

Lee earned her PhD in Clinical Psychology from Palo Alto University and completed her post-doctoral fellowship at The Menninger Clinic. She graduated Cum Laude from Vassar College with a Bachelor of Arts in English.

Her coaching style is straightforward and compassionate. She focuses on creating honest, respectful conversations where growth can happen. Clients often say they leave sessions feeling grounded and energized with renewed focus on what truly matters.

Outside of work, Lee spends time with her husband and friends. As an empty nester, she now spends time trying to get her kids to respond to her texts. She is also co-founder of a Kansas City–based leadership program that helps girls ages 10-13 build confidence and lead with purpose. A former college disc jockey, she now enjoys hot yoga, word games, and any chance to unwind with laughter and good company.

If you’re ready to lead with greater awareness and impact, then Lee is ready to help you take the next step.