Michelle Tafel (she/her) is a Principal & Managing Director, Organizational Consulting at DRG, a leading talent advisory firm dedicated to supporting nonprofits through executive search and talent consulting services. In her role, Michelle specializes in organizational redesign, executive coaching, succession and transition planning, and addressing complex challenges that hinder organizations from reaching their full potential. She works closely with leaders to reimagine the possibilities for their organizations and teams, clearing the path to a stronger future. With deep sector experience, Michelle offers a pragmatic approach to moving from vision to execution, helping clients transform ambitious goals into actionable plans.
With two decades of experience leading nonprofit organizations through strategy, innovation, and change management—both nationally and in Washington, DC—Michelle’s expertise is shaped by her past roles as Chief Innovation Officer, Chief Strategy and Advancement Officer, and Executive Director.
Michelle holds a bachelor’s degree from American University and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. She is a graduate of the Equity Lab’s Seeding Disruption Fellowship (2022) and Leadership Greater Washington (2019), and completed her coaching training with the Co-Active Institute. She was also a former member of the Federal City Council and was recognized in 2020 by the Washington Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 awards.
Michelle lives in Silver Spring, Maryland with her husband and two daughters.
