LEADERS IN EXECUTIVE COACHING

Our latest Praesta Profile features Partner Elspeth May. Elspeth was formerly a Partner at KPMG, heading up the firm’s Personal Financial Services practice in the UK where she also had responsibility at various times for marketing and human resources. She has held a number of Non-Executive directorships and is currently a Governor of The University of Northampton and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.

Why did you become a coach?
It’s a natural progression from my time at KPMG where I was advising senior executives and business owners on strategic development and succession planning. It’s great to be able to work closely with talented people and to help them achieve their personal and professional goals. And it’s not just one-way traffic; it’s an enriching experience for the coach as well. You’re learning something new every day.

Who’s inspired you in the business world?
I had two great role models at KPMG. Roger Dickens, a former Senior Partner, had a real passion for pushing the boundaries and encouraging people to fulfil their true potential. He taught me never to settle for second best and always to try that little bit harder. John Eggleston, my local Senior Partner, exemplified these precepts in his personal life through his tireless contribution to improving the welfare of his local community. Their energy and constant enthusiasm were infectious and they touched so many lives.

What was your most fulfilling experience in business?
Aside from my present role, I’d say helping someone to realise the fruits of their labours; working with an owner-manager to take his company – the centre of his life for many years – to market and, through that, providing him with the opportunity to begin a new life with new horizons.

What’s your No 1 business book?
Something I’m reading at the moment: ‘What We May Be’ by Piero Ferrucci. Essentially it’s all about getting the individual to form a complete understanding of their inner self and to use that knowledge to become the best they can be. This self-examination is fundamental to business leadership: if you want to lead with conviction you have to start with an awareness of your own values and beliefs.

How would you describe the Praesta ‘offer’?
Praesta’s coaches have seen business from the sharp end; we’re all familiar with the dynamics of senior management and this insight is invaluable when coaching other business leaders. Of course, we’ve each got our own way of working with our clients but we can also tap into the partnership’s knowledge bank and share ideas. That’s what makes the Praesta offer so attractive: our clients form a strong, supportive relationship with the coach of their choice whilst also benefiting from the firm’s collective experience.

How do you relax?
I’m a theatre buff and my husband and I are trying to see as many as we can of the RSC’s The Complete Works programme at Stratford. When it comes to TV, it’s got to be David Attenborough, and the recent series on the Galapagos islands was wonderful.

Who would be your perfect dinner guests?
Judi Dench because she’s one of the greats of the theatre and she’s had a fascinating life. Vivienne Westwood – she’s a total original and a creative genius; in another life I’d like to have been a knitwear or textile designer. Charles Handy is also one of my heroes. I admire him as an original and provocative thinker and commentator on the world of work and life in general. And lastly – I’d better get in fast because he’s on almost everyone’s wish list – it would have to be Nelson Mandela. It’s his combination of wisdom and humour, all delivered with such a light touch, which is so attractive.

What’s your favourite holiday destination?
I’m fascinated by islands and sea travel. I love the Western Isles and the Galapagos, but almost any island will do. It’s the combination of water and rock which is so compelling.

What’s your biggest challenge?
Forcing myself to take enough exercise. I know I should, it’s just finding the time – the classic excuse!