When projects stumble, most leaders look at tools, processes, or even team composition. Rarely do they consider the missing multiplier: an Agile Coach. Yet in 2025, with organizations juggling hybrid models, remote teams, and complex portfolios, Agile Coaches are quietly becoming one of the most impactful (and underutilized) roles in delivery.
What Exactly Does an Agile Coach Do?
Unlike a Scrum Master who supports a single team, Agile Coaches zoom out to improve the entire system. They:
- Mentor teams, leaders, and executives on agile practices.
- Identify bottlenecks across projects and portfolios.
- Help shift culture, not just process.
- Ensure agile principles are applied consistently, even outside IT.
Why They’re Underutilized
Many organizations confuse Agile Coaches with Scrum Masters or assume their role ends after an agile “transformation.” In reality, the hardest work starts after the ceremonies are in place. Without continuous coaching, teams often slip back into old habits — stand-ups that drag, sprints without outcomes, retros with no follow-up.
The Payoff of Having One
- Higher Velocity: Teams deliver faster and with fewer blockers.
- Stronger Alignment: Portfolios stay connected to strategy.
- Improved Morale: Teams feel empowered, not micromanaged.
- Better ROI: Agile isn’t just about speed — it’s about delivering the right outcomes.
Final Takeaway
Agile Coaches aren’t just a nice-to-have. They’re the bridge between agile theory and agile reality. For organizations serious about scaling agility and improving delivery, an Agile Coach is often the missing piece of the puzzle.