Insight Grows in Conversation
‘I would highly recommend Stephen’s approach to developing leadership thinking and practice. His wise and considered approach is affirming and supportive.’
Pat Murden, CEO of the Diocese of Westminster Academy Trust.
Stephen Parker talks about his style of coaching.
‘Stephen is a wise and values-infused thinker, with an eye for careful observation and a gift for asking the right questions to prompt deep reflection and discernment.’
Professor Annalise Gordon, St Mary’s University, London.
WHO I WORK WITH
I work with people whose decisions shape organisations, communities and the lives of others; people working within mission-driven organisations shaped by purpose as much as performance.
Some are navigating a variety of forms of change, others are stepping into greater responsibility, or considering what should come next. Others value having a confidential space in which to think carefully about their leadership, relationships, quality of judgement and sense of direction before decisions need to be made.
I also work with organisations through reflective facilitation, leadership development, and research consultancy, particularly where thoughtful dialogue is needed around questions of purpose, culture, identity and change.
WAYS OF WORKING
Every piece of work begins with conversation rather than prescription.
For individuals, this most often develops into a contracted coaching relationship. I start with you; your needs and where you’re at presently. Rather than imposing a pre-packaged solution, I shape our conversations around you, how you find yourself now in your current context and circumstances. By listening, reflective questioning and observations offered I hope to develop your own awareness and insight.
All of what we do is grounded in careful listening, thoughtful attention and insightful enquiry, with the goal of supporting your own awareness and flourishing.
About Stephen Parker
I am an executive coach, educator and Professor of Beliefs and Values, with more than three decades’ experience of working with leaders, professionals and organisations.
My work brings together leadership, education, meaning, judgement and human development. I have held senior academic and institutional roles, led research activity, supervised doctoral students, and mentored academics and professionals. These experiences have given me a close understanding of what it means to carry responsibility for people, organisations and ideas.
My coaching provides a confidential space in which people can think clearly about demanding situations, difficult decisions and what may be required of them next. It is informed by extensive experience of education, research, leadership and institutional life, as well as a longstanding interest in how people understand their work and the responsibilities it carries.
I hold a PhD in religion and public life and a distinction-level MA in Pastoral Care, Counselling and Human Development. I am currently undertaking advanced professional formation in Executive Coaching at Hult Ashridge Business School and am a member of EMCC Global.
My approach is calm, reflective, direct and gently challenging. I help people slow down, see their situation more clearly and move towards purposeful action without losing sight of integrity, context or what matters most.