One December Thursday in 2008, I was sitting in a Cafe Nero for a pre-work coffee with two of my fellow managers, ahead of a big fundraising event. I knew my talented events team was going to deliver. I knew I’d personally delivered events on a far larger scale, with bigger budgets and bigger targets before. And yet, I was so stressed that morning, that, cappuccino in hand, I simply burst into tears.

Why? Because I didn’t feel trusted, I felt under scrutiny, I was attempting to shield my team from impending restructure so they could get on and do their jobs, so with my closest colleagues my outward confidence cracked and my inner feelings poured out.

I knew from past roles what a truly supportive work culture could feel like and I vowed then I’d find it again. I left, but returned shortly after into a learning & development role where I was empowered to learn and create (and train as a coach!) and I thrived, supporting leaders in many countries to build the skills, practical strategies and team cultures to succeed.

Since then I’ve worked with leaders in a diverse range of organisations including the UN refugee agency, HSBC, Department for Education, law firms, tech start ups and small charities, helping leaders thrive when resources are tight. Not only do I cut through the noise to quickly work out what is really going on for clients, but I’m also sought out to support clients process the emotional fallout, like the one I led experienced in 2008, from difficult work situations and relationships which dent their confidence and make work feel stressful.

Coaching with me is warm and practical, non-judgemental and joyful, where emotions are not only welcomed but they are encouraged, because on the other side of the tricky stuff is YOU – a compassionate and calm leader, ready to meet whatever curve ball might be around the next corner.