About
The world of work is changing faster than many education and career systems can respond.
For over 15 years, I’ve worked at the intersection of higher education, career design, and executive coaching. I support professionals in making confident career decisions and help institutions build career systems that actually work.
I co-founded Avenirs, an EdTech platform for modern career guidance, and the Albanian Career Development Association (ACDA), which strengthens professional standards in career practice.
My work combines strengths-based coaching, executive leadership training, and practical experience across European career and mobility contexts.
Currently focused on
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Applying CliftonStrengths® to career and leadership decisions
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Supporting EU career mobility and pathways for students and professionals
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Working across European education and labour markets
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Bridging what universities teach with what careers actually need
Strategic Services
Career & Transition Coaching
For professionals taking deliberate next steps. We clarify priorities, assess options, and map actionable plans.
Focus areas:
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Defining priorities and next moves
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Navigating career pivots
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Strengthening CVs, applications, and interviews
Best for: Early and mid-career professionals at a decision point or seeking a more meaningful direction.
Strengths-Based Coaching
Leadership thrives on natural talents. Using CliftonStrengths®, we build everyday decisions from your strengths.
Focus areas:
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Assessment in-depth debrief
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Strengths-based leadership development
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Coaching on communication, influence, and decision-making
Best for: Managers, team leaders, and high-potential professionals.
Career Systems for Universities
Effective career services are designed, not improvised. We build systems that connect students with opportunities.
Focus areas:
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Career service strategy and implementation
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Employer and alumni engagement models
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Tools, manuals, and programmes tested at scale
Best for: Universities and initiatives focused on career guidance and employability.
Strategic Positioning & Ghostwriting
High-value work deserves high-value visibility. We craft narratives that position you as a thought leader.
Focus areas:
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Positioning and narrative development
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Thought leadership and content strategy
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Writing, editorial support, and ghostwriting
Best for: Rectors, directors, experts.
Intercultural Training & Expat Support
For professionals relocating to or working in Albania. We guide you through local norms, workplace expectations, and daily life adjustments.
Focus areas:
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Workplace culture and communication
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Practical guidance for daily life and work
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Reducing culture shock and friction
Best for: International staff, expats, and organisations supporting relocation.
Why Xhafer?
Evidence-Based
Bridging Harvard-level research with practical realities in European career and education contexts.
Unique perspective
Combining Gallup and GCDF credentials with hands-on experience in EU career policy.
Systemic View
Understanding students, CEOs, and policymakers to ensure advice is grounded and practical.
How We Work
The Diagnosis
A 30-minute call to identify your current challenge.
The Map
Customized strategy, whether a 1-on-1 coaching cycle or institutional redesign.
The Execution
Regular sessions supported by tools, reflection, and accountability.
The Result
Clearer direction, higher market value, and systemic impact.
Testimonials
Project Lead, national university initiative
“Xhafer helped us redesign career services for thousands of students. The impact was visible in engagement and opportunities.”
Early-career leader, international organisation
"Strengths coaching with Xhafer changed how I approach my career and leadership decisions. It felt both rigorous and human."
Leonardo, Master Student, Italy
"The session with Xhafer was eye-opening and informative. It helped me recognize my mistakes and set me on the right path."