top of page

Coaching for Public Sector and Government Leaders

 

Confidential coaching for senior leaders in public service—supporting clarity, resilience and ethical leadership

Leadership in Public Service is Complex and Demanding

Public leadership carries visibility, responsibility and constant scrutiny. Whether you're navigating budget constraints, political shifts, reform agendas or the challenge of leading large teams through uncertainty—the pressures are significant.

​

You may be:

​

  • Balancing strategic priorities with day-to-day service delivery

  • Managing stakeholder expectations across political and operational lines

  • Dealing with media pressure or public accountability

  • Holding morale and momentum amid stretched resources

​

Coaching for public sector and government leaders creates space for honest reflection, strategic thinking and calm, values-led decision-making. It’s a trusted partnership focused on supporting your impact and wellbeing.

stormont-government-building-northern-ireland_1048944-9838057.avif

Support from Someone Who Understands Your World

I bring experience working with leaders across local authorities, the civil service, education, the NHS and wider public service. I understand:

​

  • The constraints and accountabilities unique to public roles

  • The complex environment of working with elected officials, service users and civil servants

  • The emotional labour of leading teams in high-stakes systems

​

Coaching for NHS or local authority leaders, civil service professionals and senior managers in public bodies is delivered with neutrality, discretion and deep respect for the public good.

As a qualified, accredited coach, I offer calm, ethical and non-judgemental support—always grounded in the reality of public sector leadership.

A Coaching Framework That Works in Practice

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

​

  • 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

​

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

A Coaching Approach That Builds Capacity and Confidence

What Others Have Experienced

Public service leadership coaching helps you:

​

  • Lead effectively through reform, change or political transition

  • Strengthen confidence in high-pressure decision-making

  • Work strategically with internal and external stakeholders

  • Manage personal resilience and leadership energy

  • Reconnect with the purpose behind your public role

​

Sessions are flexible, confidential and tailored to your leadership context. This is leadership development for public sector executives who want to lead with clarity, purpose and professionalism.

​

Whether you’re in central government, a council, a health trust or an arms-length body, government executive coaching gives you space to think and strengthen your leadership practice.

"Iain’s coaching gave me perspective during a period of major local government restructuring. It helped me lead with more calm and confidence." — Director, local authority

​

"The combination of deep listening and practical insight was exactly what I needed. Coaching helped me reframe the challenges I was facing." — Senior Leader, NHS

​

Clients using coaching for civil service leaders and public executives report:

​

  • Improved strategic clarity in complex environments

  • More confident communication under scrutiny

  • Renewed focus and resilience during times of change

  • Greater alignment between values and leadership actions

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this coaching for? This coaching is for senior leaders working in the public sector—including NHS executives, council directors, civil servants, and education leaders.

​

Do you offer coaching for civil service leaders? Yes. Coaching for civil service leaders is a core part of my work. I understand the culture, expectations and structures that define civil service roles.

​

Is this suitable for NHS or local authority leaders? Absolutely. I offer coaching for NHS or local authority leaders at all levels, with experience supporting chief executives, directors and senior managers.

​

What is government executive coaching? Government executive coaching supports leaders in public roles to navigate change, lead ethically, and develop their leadership presence.

​

How are sessions delivered? Sessions are usually remote, via Zoom or Teams, and scheduled to fit your availability. In-person sessions may also be arranged where feasible.

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

Leading in the public sector comes with unique pressures. Let’s talk about how coaching can help you lead with confidence and clarity.

​

Start with a confidential, no-pressure conversation to explore your leadership goals and whether coaching is the right support for you.

"Coaching with Iain gave me a safe space to step back from the noise and think clearly. It helped me navigate competing political pressures while keeping the integrity of my decisions intact. It’s made me more composed and strategic under pressure."


— Deputy Director, Civil Service. (wishes to remain anonymous)

bottom of page