Why did you choose to study Banking and Finance at Loughborough University?

Two main reasons. First, the campus style and sporting history of the University. It was love at first sight. Second, the course offered a placement year in industry – real experience. This was practical and enjoyable. The outcome was a full-time job post-graduation.

How has Loughborough University inspired and helped you to progress in your career?

Strong foundations. It takes time to make an impact. Good foundations are essential. The year in industry and practical content of the course was invaluable. Making friends for life was also important. Our mutual progress helped us to inspire each other.

Did you take part in any extracurricular activities during your studies? If so, what impact did these have on your experience?

I did far less sport than I thought I would! Since university I’ve run seven marathons, so the sporting bug never left. I found that there genuinely was even more to Loughborough than sport. I did try kickboxing but the draw of socialising was often too much to resist.

Can you map out what your career journey has been so far?

I joined the global graduate scheme of HSBC Global Markets straight out of University – a highly sought after role. I then worked in London and Hong Kong before returning to London. From then, I had first-hand experience of the build-up and ultimate crash of the structured finance world from 2007 onwards. I then began an international career by moving to Jersey as Treasurer and Head of the Markets business. I also joined the local board of directors of a subsidiary of the Group. This was followed by a promotion to Malta, to run the Global Banking and Markets business for our publicly listed subsidiary. Following this, I moved to Zurich, Switzerland to relationship manage all our multinational clients. Being mobile helped me make fast progress, experience interesting challenges and different cultures.

How did you gain your new role as the Secretary General of the British-Swiss Chamber of Commerce?

When I moved to Zurich, one of the first connections I made was to the Chamber. I knew of the great work they did and the networking benefits that participation would involve – for me and my firm. Initially, I volunteered as a committee member. It then transpired that the incumbent in the leadership role was moving on to a new challenge and the opportunity presented itself. I had to make a decision on whether the timing was right and then go for it. It proved to me once again the power of connections.

What does this mean for your lifestyle and your career?

I made this move because I believe in the purpose of the British-Swiss Chamber of Commerce. It’s a fascinating time to be supporting and developing business opportunities between the two nations, particularly in light of Brexit. The move also gives me an opportunity to reinvent and reimagine my career. I’m now able to have a portfolio career which I see as increasingly likely for millennials.

My lifestyle will not change. I still believe that family time is a priority and that work needs to be fulfilling. To the extent that I get to stretch myself and make new connections, I see only upside.

How do you manage your time in order to work in the Chamber of Commerce as well as working on your own executive coaching business?

I work three days a week for the Chamber, which means I have two days for my own business. This variety is important to me. My own high degree of energy and enthusiasm means I enjoy balancing the demands of both. I’m a big believer in adopting rituals and routines to help improve efficiency. This is a big help.

How have you developed Woodeson Executive Coaching to the level that it is currently at? How successful has this been so far in helping people to realise their potential?

It has taken resourcefulness, creativity and connections. I also studied for a qualification with the Academy of Executive Coaching which was superb. This ensured I genuinely knew what I was doing! It also provided some introductions for clients. My broader network did the same. I believe in advocacy being the most powerful tool for growth. My clients referring me to their colleagues or friends is the surest sign that they feel they have benefitted from the coaching.

In terms of potential, I believe this is always evolving and never reached. That’s part of the beauty of human potential. It seems to always be expanding. Once we reach a plateau, that is often when we can benefit from coaching to get us to the next challenge. It takes a high degree of self-awareness to know when coaching can be a catalyst to personal (or team) growth.

What do you love the most about your job and working in the executive coaching sector?

I love helping others achieve greater fulfilment. That I can combine this with my role at the British-Swiss Chamber of Commerce and the European Network on Statelessness means I can apply different skills on a regular basis whilst learning from others at the same time. I find that this portfolio of roles leads to greater fulfilment for me, which is important!

Where do you see yourself and Woodeson Executive Coaching going in the future?

I hope to expand the team so that we can grow and reach more individuals and firms. We offer individual and team coaching, so the opportunities are extensive. Partnerships in London or further afield are also likely. However, the priority now is to enjoy this moment to its fullest. If in the future I see growth as an output of great and enjoyable work, then I will be very happy.

Do you have any Loughborough memories that you would like to share?

An interesting anecdote on Loughborough. The very first person I met and spoke to outside my hall – ‘Bill Mo’ – has since been my best man and godfather to my eldest daughter. Loughborough provided the platform from which to develop ourselves and our future. For that, I will always have the fondest of memories.