My two Boston terriers
The real bosses of the household.
Meet Alicia
A different perspective on transition.
Some of the biggest changes in my life happened long before I started my career.
I grew up in apartheid South Africa, getting a very early education in what made me different. At thirteen, I was among a small minority fortunate enough to attend a Model C school (formerly whites-only schools, now open to pupils of all races).
At twenty-one, I took the leap and moved to London on a two-year working holiday visa. Both experiences opened up a different world of possibilities, and at the time, my focus was firmly on the opportunities that change could bring.
Looking back, I can see how those experiences also shaped how I saw myself and what I believed was possible.
Years later, I built a successful corporate career. Yet I often found myself working harder to prove I belonged, looking to others for validation and following a version of success I’d rarely stopped to question.
Those experiences made me curious about the difference between change and transition. William Bridges’ work helped me put that difference into words:
“Change is situational. Transition is psychological.”
William Bridges
Our circumstances and environments can change dramatically, but the beliefs and expectations we carry don’t necessarily change with them.
That’s what interests me about transitions. The opportunity to step back, question what we’re carrying forward and decide what still fits.
Professional experience. A human perspective.
I’ve been fortunate to have a varied and rather squiggly career. Over more than 15 years, I’ve worked across Finance, Risk, Audit, Operations and Learning & Development, from Big Four practice to a FTSE 100 insurer. I’ve led teams and complex programmes, worked closely with C-suite leaders and experienced the constant pressures of corporate life.
That experience has taught me that change doesn’t happen in a bubble. It’s influenced by the people around us, the environments we work in, the expectations others place on us and those we place on ourselves. Recognising and managing these different influences is an important part of any transition.
I tend not to view things as simply black or white. For me, it’s often what happens in the shades of grey that matters most. And that’s the perspective and curiosity I bring to my work as an executive coach.
What I value
Integrity
Doing the right thing, even when it’s not the easiest option. And when I know better, I do better.
Courage
Being willing to take a chance, bet on myself and find a way to act, even when there’s fear or discomfort.
Learning
Staying curious, keeping an open mind, questioning assumptions and being willing to try something new.
Equity
Everyone deserves the opportunity to realise their potential, regardless of where they started.
Freedom
Building a life and career that give me choices, and the freedom to define success on my own terms.
Credentials
- ICF Associate Certified Coach (ACC)
- FCCA (Fellow Chartered Certified Accountant)
- Henley Business School, Professional Certificate in Executive Coaching
- LEGO® Serious Play® Facilitator
- Thrive & Grow Index® Licensed Practitioner
When I’m not working
Rugby
A very vocal Springboks supporter.
Travel
Exploring new places, different cultures and finding those spots off the beaten track.
Running (and jeffing)
Working on getting back into it. It’s always a great opportunity to catch up on my audiobooks and podcasts.
Let’s talk about what’s next.
Whether you’re considering working together or simply want to start a conversation, I’d love to hear from you.
Or connect with me