A young HR professional at a UK bank is transitioning to Chief People Officer. But she lacks leadership presence, particularly in board meetings with older male executives. The client feels the pressure to prove herself, manage her critical voice, and demonstrate influence within the organisation.

Client challenges include feeling pressure, uncertainty, and the need to demonstrate influence and leadership. She also struggles with imposter syndrome and a struggle to adapt to the male dominated culture.

The client also seeks to transition from a firefighting style to a more strategic and delegating leadership style. 

We focused on building self confidence, leadership skills, and impact in board meetings.

We worked on managing her critical voice, imposter syndrome and strategies for stress management.

We also explored ways to improve relationship dynamics with members of the exec team.

The coaching sessions included the co-creation of strategies for managing stress, improving eating and sleeping habits, and enhancing mental well-being.

We also focused on developing the client’s leadership presence, communication skills, and confidence in boardroom settings.

The client left with an increased feeling of self confidence, enhanced communication skills, and effective stress management.

The client’s ability to have more impact in board meeting presentations — being vocally stronger and answering challenges better — was also developed.

Feedback from the exec team noted she was ‘managing stakeholders better’, showed ‘stronger leadership presence and gravitas’, and is ‘more assertive and firmer.’