The Stone Strategy – The stone strategy

I’m Dr. Ty Stone

a strategic leader who has served as President, CFO, and COO. I know what it’s like to sit in the seat you’re in, and I understand the pressure that comes with it.

I help institutions bring order to complexity — and move forward with clarity. Over the years, I’ve led through financial instability, cultural shifts, leadership transitions and I’ve learned how to connect the dots across an entire institution.

My strength is seeing how everything fits together and helping teams make smart, aligned decisions that create lasting impact. I work with colleges, universities, and mission-driven organizations that are navigating change, complexity, or transition.

I don’t offer surface-level solutions or one-size-fits-all frameworks. My work is rooted in real leadership experience — and it’s always tailored to what’s happening on the ground.

Here’s what I focus on:

Strategic Leadership

I support executive teams and boards through times of transition, crisis, or strategic growth. I help you define where you’re going and what it will take to get there — with clarity, urgency, and alignment.

Organizational Effectiveness

We take a close look at what’s working and what’s not — systems, structures, and people. I help simplify complexity, reduce friction, and strengthen performance across the organization.

Leveraging Resources

Often, the tools you need are already in the building. I help you see what you have, what’s being underused, and how to reallocate resources for greater efficiency and impact.

Governance Alignment

When leadership and governance are out of sync, progress stalls. I work with boards and executive teams to clarify roles, improve decision-making, and build trust — so the whole institution moves forward together.

You don’t need another report.

You need a partner who can lead alongside you.

Whether I’m stepping in as an interim executive or advising from the outside, I don’t just diagnose. I help you move.
My work is hands-on, direct, and honest.

Here’s how we typically work together:

1.Discovery & Alignment – A focused, strategic conversation to name what’s really going on.

2.Assessment – I dig into your operations, finances, people, and systems. You get a clear picture — and a clear path forward.

3.Execution – I serve as your interim CFO/COO or strategic advisor, depending on your needs. We move quickly and intentionally.

4.Candid Counsel – You’ll get unfiltered insight and real-time support. I’ll say what others might avoid — with respect and care.

5.Sustainable Tools – When our work is done, you’ll have the clarity, structure, and systems to keep moving forward.

Ready to Talk?

If your institution is facing pressure, now is the time for steady leadership.

You might be hesitant to bring in outside support, especially if you’ve had experiences that felt vague or disconnected. But that’s not how I work.
I show up as a partner , fully invested in your success.
You get direct access to me
You get practical, actionable support
You get results — not just ideas

Ty Stone, PhD Consulting

Real leadership. Strategic clarity. Calm in the chaos.