I had an e-mail recently from a potential client who had been referred to me by one of my coaching clients. His questions made me wonder if I am offering information about my work as an executive coach at the expense of sharing information about my broader offering in the field of leadership development. In truth, I have played a role over the years in helping many organisations to build their leadership bench strength as well in helping individuals to develop their own capability as leaders. I made a note to balance the referrals that I am sharing to give a broader view.

It made sense to ask my friend, colleague and client Alan Roach, Executive Principal of the Basildon Academies, for permission to reproduce a referral which has already been published elsewhere, not least because Alan has seen the breadth and depth of my work since we first met in 1999. Before I share Alan’s words, I offer some background information about our contact over the years.

Our first meeting took place when Alan participated in the national Leadership Programme for Serving Headteachers, when I was responsible for accrediting the trainers delivering the programme. Over the years, I have known Alan in a variety of contexts. I have been Entrepreneur In Residence at the schools which have recently become the Basildon Academies, a role which often involves acting as a sounding board for Alan. We have been fellow national judges for the Teaching Awards. Occasionally, the Academies have been my client – last year, for example, I conducted some work to help clarify roles and responsibilities in the newly formed Academies. Occasionally, I have conducted work on behalf of other organisations as a result of Alan’s referrals.

This is what Alan had to say:

Dorothy is an authoritative and professional management consultant and executive coach. Dorothy’s intellect, clarity and experience have enabled her to make a strong contribution to developments in the world of education. Her influence and support over the years, through consultancy and through her voluntary work have helped our schools to build social capital and to succeed in transformation. Her ongoing commitment to supporting us as our schools become Academies will ensure that our new systems are robust and that our aspirations are met.