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Executive Coaching for Nonprofit Leaders

 

Tailored coaching designed specifically for people working in mission-led organisations across the charity and nonprofit sector 

Helping Purpose-Driven Leaders Navigate Complex Challenges

Leading a charity or nonprofit organisation is deeply purposeful—but also exceptionally challenging.

 

As a former charity Chief Executive, I understand the pressures leaders face: fundraising targets, policy shifts, digital disruption, board dynamics, staff wellbeing, and the daily responsibility of delivering on your mission.

 

It’s a lot—and it can feel isolating.

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That’s why executive coaching for nonprofit leaders can be so powerful. It creates protected time to reflect, regroup and build resilience. Coaching provides a confidential, non-judgemental space where you can gain clarity, reconnect with your purpose and make confident, strategic decisions.

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Whether you’re a Chief Executive, founder, trustee or senior leader, this coaching is grounded in deep understanding of the third sector and tailored to the realities of charity leadership.

Whatever you're facing, coaching provides a safe, confidential space for personal and professional growth.

Why Choose Coaching Designed for Charity Leaders?

Generic executive coaching often misses the mark for nonprofit leaders. You need someone who understands:

 

  •     The nuances of restricted and unrestricted funding

  •     The pressures of being mission-led in a resource-stretched environment

  •     The complex dynamics between boards, funders, stakeholders and beneficiaries

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With over 20 years' experience working across the third sector—and as a qualified, accredited coach—I bring both empathy and practical insight to every coaching session. I’ve supported charity CEOs, founders, trustees, programme leads, and impact officers across a wide range of causes.

A Coaching Framework That Works in Practice

My nonprofit leadership coaching draws on a unique five-part framework:

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  • Purpose – Reconnect with the values and mission driving your leadership

  • Pace – Find sustainable rhythms and avoid burnout

  • Patterns – Explore your leadership style and its impact

  • Perspective – Step back and see the bigger picture

  • Presence – Lead with focus, confidence and calm

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This structure provides clarity and consistency, while keeping the coaching flexible to your immediate needs.

What Nonprofit Leaders Commonly Explore in Coaching

Proven Impact: Stories from the Sector

No two leaders are the same—but there are common themes that come up in sessions. Clients often explore:

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•  Defining and communicating a clearer strategic direction

•  Leading through sector-wide uncertainty or organisational change

•  Strengthening team culture, engagement and performance

•  Managing conflict, board relationships and people challenges

•  Addressing stress, burnout and emotional fatigue

•  Reflecting on career transitions or future leadership roles

•  Navigating digital transformation, AI and shifting policy landscapes

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Coaching gives you space to work through these challenges in a focused, supported way—without judgement or pressure.

 

 

"We now lead with greater focus and far less self-doubt. Coaching gave us space to regroup, reflect and grow." — Co-leads of a youth charity navigating a major leadership transition

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"Iain offered an environment in which I could calm down, slow down, think better and clarify what really matters." — Director, international development NGO

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Leaders I’ve worked with have gone on to:

•  Secure multi-year, unrestricted funding

•  Redesign their leadership teams and governance models

•  Reduce burnout and rebuild work-life boundaries

•  Reframe their organisation’s vision in line with strategic priorities

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this coaching for? This coaching is designed for Chief Executives, founders, trustees and senior leaders working in charities, nonprofits and social enterprises.

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How are sessions structured? Sessions are typically 60 minutes, held remotely via Zoom or Teams. They take place fortnightly or monthly, depending on your availability and goals.

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Is this coaching suitable for teams? Yes, I also work with co-leads, leadership pairs and small executive teams navigating transitions or collective challenges.

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How do I know if coaching is right for me? It starts with a 30-minute, no-pressure conversation. We’ll explore what you’re facing and whether this approach feels like a good fit.

Coaching offers a secure and private environment to support your personal and professional development—no matter what challenges you're dealing with.​

Start a Conversation

If you're a nonprofit or charity leader looking for thoughtful, experienced support—I’d love to hear from you.

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Let’s talk about how coaching can support your leadership journey.

 

Book a free initial conversation and take the first step towards clearer, calmer leadership.

"Iain’s coaching has been instrumental in guiding me through the challenges of implementing meaningful change in my role. His ability to listen without judgement, ask critical questions, and challenge my self-doubt has been key in building the confidence and clarity I needed.

For anyone questioning whether they have time for coaching, I would say this has been an invaluable investment in my professional growth."

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— Mary Rice, Executive Director, Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA)

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