Chief Explorer

What is the
CHIEF EXPLORER?

I have been coaching since 2004 and have carried out over 1,600 hours of coaching. I’m a Master Practitioner Coach accredited by the European Mentoring & Coaching Council. I began my career working as a Community Artist in the charity sector and worked in the NHS since 1989. I have worked in all sectors of the NHS and have a doctorate in Organisational Psychology from Manchester Business School. I also write extensively on coaching practise, organisational change, personal effectiveness and innovation.

I’m the author of “Values Count: believing in what we do” and “Insight Coaching: from values to action”. Alongside my coaching practise, I work part-time in the NHS as Chief Executive of NHS R&D North West, the strategic team developing research capacity in the region.

I’m also a poet, having produced many collections of poetry over the years – most recently, “Blue: experiments in sound” and “Hang Fire” were published. 

The Chief Explorer is an experiment in exploring inner and outer worlds. A voyage into the fifth element of space. Through this website, publications and images on Instagram – you will be able to follow my work as I unpack the explorer concept. 

Why is this role important?

I have been coaching Leaders since 2004. I use an eclectic style, drawing on a wide range of techniques, including: NPL, psycodynamic, behavioural & creative, narrative-based approaches.

I take an approach centred on you, beginning with any issues you bring and identifying the best approach to match your preferred style.

If you want to find out more about the Explorer and join me on the journey, please do get in touch. We can look at ways for you to participate. 

This role brings innovation, creativity and play together. Through this union, it is possible to chart new territories, new waters – and reach out to the beyond.

AREAS OF
SPECIALISM

Stuart has extensive experience of coaching leaders at all stages of their career, helping them to understand the importance of building strong teams. He has significant experience of change management, resilience and developing entrepreneurial and innovation skills. In addition, he provides coaching on creativity and productivity and specialises in career coaching, career transitions, performance development, strategic planning, influencing stakeholders and business development.

CAREER
BACKGROUND

I worked for 7 years for a regional charity, and have worked since 1989 in the public sector. I have held a number of senior roles in the NHS, including National Head of Evaluation for the NHS Modernisation Agency and Regional Director of R&D for NHS North West, as well as a number of non-executive roles at regional and national level. I have expertise in evaluation of impact, public involvement and engagement, and service improvement / change management.

I have previously held honorary appointments at Manchester Business School, University of Lancaster and Liverpool John Moores University. I am currently Honorary Visiting Professor, Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences, University of Liverpool.