About Synko Associates
Alberto Elli, owner and certified career coach
In 2015, I first came to Synko Associates not as a coach, but as a client. After years in Fortune 100 leadership, I was ready for a change and sought clarity on my next steps. Through Nick Synko’s coaching, I transitioned into my first CEO role in a startup, a move that reshaped my career and deepened my understanding of personal and business transformation.
With over 30 years of global leadership experience, I have held executive roles in business strategy, operations, and finance, leading M&A transactions, market expansions, and corporate transformations. I have worked in multinational corporations, private equity, and startups, raising more than $20M of capital and leading high-impact growth initiatives across diverse industries and geographies.
In 2022, I returned to Synko Associates - not as a client but as a certified career coach - working alongside Nick to guide professionals through their own career transitions. Now, as Owner and Principal Career Coach, I am proud to carry forward Synko Associates' 25+ year legacy of helping executives, professionals, and career changers move forward with confidence.
(Alberto also serves as CEO of Pever LLC, a business advisory firm specializing in Startups and Small Business and, succession planning.)
Cathy Synko, client success manager
Cathy has long been the welcoming voice behind Synko Associates. As our Client Success Manager, she schedules Preview Sessions, explains the benefits of our coaching programs, and helps professionals understand how personal career coaching can guide their next career transformation step.
With her personable style and attention to detail, Cathy ensures that each prospective client experiences the professionalism and care that define the Synko Associates approach. Her steady support over the years has helped maintain the high standards and trusted reputation our firm is known for.
IN HONOR OF OUR FOUNDER - Nick synko
For over 25 years, Nick built Synko Associates into one of Michigan’s top career coaching firms, helping thousands of professionals and executives successfully navigate career transitions. In 2025, Nick left us, leaving behind a lasting legacy of integrity, structure, and genuine care for the people he coached.
As Founder and Principal Career Coach, Nick developed structured, results-driven coaching programs that combined personalized guidance, practical tools, and strategic career planning. He laid the foundation for the coaching methods and materials that continue to guide our practice today, shaping how Synko Associates helps clients achieve clarity, confidence, and momentum in their careers.
Nick was the author of Future@Work: An Employee Survival Guide for the 21st Century and contributed to the early development of the 100+ Career Transition Tips methodology that remains part of Synko’s foundation today. Earlier in his career, he held HR leadership roles with Tenneco, Ford Motor Company, RCA, and Sears, where he specialized in executive coaching, recruiting, and talent development.
