Melissa Thompson, PhD, is a leadership strategist, organizational development expert, and sought-after communication specialist who excels at transforming teams, cultures, and organizational performance. As a partner at Success Labs, she guides executives, emerging leaders, and high-potential talent to navigate change, sharpen strategic thinking, and achieve lasting growth.
With a PhD in communication theory, Melissa applies a rigorous, research-backed approach to leadership development, employee engagement, and organizational strategy. Known for making complex concepts accessible, actionable, and engaging, she brings clarity and impact to every interaction—whether leading strategic planning for large hospital systems, guiding petrochemical teams through organizational change, or facilitating high-energy leadership workshops.
Melissa’s influence extends beyond the corporate environment. As the curator of TEDxBatonRouge, a Council Trustee for Delta Gamma, and an adjunct professor at LSU’s E.J. Ourso College of Business, she actively shapes the conversation around leadership, innovation, and effective communication in both academic and community settings.
Praised for her warmth, charisma, and intelligence, Melissa is a trusted and proven expert who builds trust quickly. She believes that leadership development is as much about inspiring confidence as it is about strategy, empowering leaders to build resilient teams that thrive in an ever-changing landscape.
Melissa is based in Baton Rouge, where she contributes to numerous community initiatives, including serving on the board of the Louisiana Art & Science Museum and supporting Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center through the Echo Alliance. Whether speaking on stage, facilitating in the boardroom, or guiding organizational change, Melissa empowers leaders to turn potential into proven results.