The integrator you have been looking for.
I’m an operations and people strategy specialist with over a decade of experience supporting businesses across education and leadership spaces. As the Founder of Out of the Box Ops, I partner closely with business owners to build the systems, structure, and team clarity they need to run and grow their business without everything depending on them.
My work isn’t just about creating processes; it’s about becoming a true operational partner. I step into businesses to help bring order to the moving pieces, support teams in working more effectively, and create systems that actually make day-to-day operations feel lighter and more manageable.
Before starting Out of the Box Ops, I served as Chief Operations Officer at SMJ Communications, where I led both systems and people operations. I was responsible for building internal infrastructure, strengthening team workflows, and ensuring the business operated with clarity, consistency, and efficiency.
With a background in education and a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction, I bring a unique ability to translate complex, behind-the-scenes challenges into clear, actionable systems that teams can understand and sustain.
I’m based in Braselton, Georgia, where I live with my husband, our three kids, and our pup. My life and work are both centered on building things that function well and support the people inside them—whether that’s at home or in a growing business.
If you’re looking for someone who will not only bring structure to your operations but also work alongside you as a true partner, you’re in the right place.
Our Partners
The Impact
It honestly blows my mind how far we’ve come since bringing Leah on. When we first started working together, I was overwhelmed, in the trenches, and couldn’t even imagine having the kind of team and structure we have now.
Today, everything feels different. I feel excited to work again. I feel supported. And most importantly, I feel confident in my team.
Out of the Box Ops has been such a steady, guiding force through every part of our growth, from helping us make hard team changes to building something so much stronger in its place. One of the biggest moments for me was going on maternity leave and watching the team fully step into their roles. They didn’t rely on me; they owned their work, collaborated, and thrived. That wouldn’t have happened without the foundation Leah helped us build.
I’m just so grateful for her guidance, her partnership, and the way she’s helped me see what’s actually possible.
Gretchen Hawley
CEO and Founder, The MSing Link
Out of the Box Ops is an absolute game-changer for streamlining and elevating business operations. Working with OBO has provided clarity, structure, and seamless processes that have allowed me to focus on the bigger picture as a CEO. The expertise, strategic insights, and personalized approach make it feel like you have a true partner invested in your success. OBO goes beyond just managing operations—they help you build systems that scale and empower your team. If you’re looking for someone who will not only optimize your business but also free you to focus on growth and impact, this is the solution you’ve been waiting for.
Sharise Johnson
Founder and CEO, SMJ Communications
I can't speak highly enough about the incredible impact Out of the Box Ops has had on our operations. From the moment Leah stepped in to set up our project planning systems, everything changed. She expertly set up a project planning system that was perfectly tailored to our needs, making it easy for our team to adopt and use. In addition, she created detailed resource videos that have been invaluable in helping our team navigate and execute tasks with greater confidence.
Jessica Shearer
Chief Communications and Marketing Officer, YAI

