Case Study: A leadership journey from uncertainty to clarity

Coaching Nicola Myers, CEO of Saint Teresa’s Hospice

When I first met Nicola, she’d just made a significant leap, from Finance Director to Chief Executive, virtually overnight. It was a big transition, and she was looking for someone who could challenge her thinking, support her growth, and help her lead with purpose.

Nicola described our first meeting as “inspiring.” What I saw was someone with enormous potential who simply needed space, structure, and the right kind of challenge to grow into her role.

“Ian became a steady presence, insightful, supportive and strategic.” – Nicola

Over the following two years, we worked together to sharpen her strategic thinking and strengthen her confidence. Our coaching conversations created space for reflection, clarity, and often, courage. Together, we tackled some big challenges, organisational restructuring, internal communication, and developing a robust three-year strategic plan.

Nicola led those changes with intention. The result?

• Improved staff engagement
• Clearer alignment across the team
• A more efficient structure
• Greater confidence in her leadership

She tells me she often heads into meetings wondering, “What would Ian say?”, and that means we’ve done meaningful work together.

“His support has not only strengthened me as a leader, it’s created a ripple effect across the whole organisation.” – Nicola

Coaching is never about me telling someone what to do. It’s about holding up a mirror, gently, persistently, and walking alongside them as they step into their own clarity. Nicola’s growth has been transformative, not just for her, but for everyone at the hospice.

And that’s the work I’m here to do.