CEO Today - Executive Coaching Awards 2022

CEO Today Execut ive Coaching Award s 2022 - USA -

Lesley A. Perkins Founder of People Matters Consulting and Coaching

What was it that prompted your start in executive coaching?

empowered with far greater insight. This type of insight paves the way for powerful and positive change. I love witnessing the shifts in my clients that arise from their growing awareness and perspectives.

Being a management consultant trained in business psychology, I started my career working with organisations looking to diversify their workforce and create inclusive cultures. Often, I was working with organisations embarking on momentous change. I noticed early on that a significant and often unspoken part of that work was coaching leaders responsible for moving the organisation forward. It was a peripheral part of my work. Over time, however, I began to see the powerful impact of a leader’s vision and appreciate the opportunity to work with leaders to truly effect meaningful change. Today, it is the central focus on my work.

What does this award mean to you?

I am honoured to be acknowledged for my coaching work. I love coaching leaders and having a direct impact on their lives and those that they lead.

Can you share anything about your plans for 2023 and beyond?

In 2023, we will be adding to our coaching offerings. Specifically, we will be rolling out a coaching program designed for Chief Diversity Officers and those responsible for their organisations’ diversity and inclusion strategies. The program is a series of one-on-one coaching sessions focused on addressing the unique challenges these leaders often face in their roles. In this series, leaders will work on outlining their individual strategies to enhance their reach and impact, fortify their resilience and increase their emotional agility.

What are the greatest lessons that you have learned since beginning your career as a coach?

Coaching has taught me several lessons over the years. However, one of the more poignant lessons has been to provide my clients with space for growth and learning. When you allow time for reflection that is cultivated through curiosity – and without judgement – leaders are

www. lesleyperkins . com

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