Building on the success of a major Executive Coaching assignment run across Europe in 2010/11 we are now looking to deliver similar programmes for our client globally.
We have a long history of delivering for clients around the world. One of our first assignments when forming Gordon Cooper Associates back in 1996 took us to Dubai and Abu Dhabi. It is however fair to say that the bulk of our work to date has been carried out in Europe.
Working globally has its challenges, not least because the development of the coaching industry and therefore coaching practice has progressed at different paces around the world. This is also reflected in a wide range of fees charged according to region.
In creating our global team we have adopted the same approach we used back in 1996 to build our UK and then European team. We are either approached by, or identify highly experienced and qualified coaches as potential team members.
Only when we are satisfied that a coach has the appropriate experience, qualifications and more importantly shares our values, do we look to bring them into our team. In many cases we will have spent a long time getting to know the potential team member before we make a formal approach. This is however only the start of the process; in order to build a truly strong and dynamic team you need great communication, regular contact and reasons to work collaboratively.
We are currently working with our client to create a global contract for coaching that enshrines the excellence they have experienced in our work in Europe whilst also reflecting the different commercial realities region to region.
You can read in our case studies more about our work with 25 partners across Europe. The short version is that we have been providing Executive Coaching support to 25 experienced partners as they develop into a new and challenging role of Lead Client Service Partner (LCSP) for large global clients.
Our approach to delivering excellence in our coaching has been to mirror the LCSP role through the role of Lead Coach.
In addition to being part of the coaching team, the Lead Coach serves both the client and the coaching team by acting as a principle point of contact.
Levering talent in 2012
We are delighted that our new ground breaking European Partner Development Programme is now up and running. Delivered in three languages the programme reflects a genuine commitment to creating a coaching culture, and aims to unlock the full potential of talent across the organisation at every level.
Erik de Haan – Head of Coaching at Ashridge Business School, David Wagstaff from Sheffield Hallam and Christoph Mikolajczak from McKinsey have joined Andrew Cooper to complete a high profile senior team to lead the programme.
Andrew Cooper commented, "We are delighted to be partnering with a Big 4 firm to support them in their strategic objective to build a coaching organisation. Our team are delivering consultancy and a bespoke action learning programme for the Partners focusing on engaging and motivating Gen Y through effective coaching and mentoring of their teams"
Focusing on career progression
A second new European programme this year reflects the importance of delivering career progression within professional services organisations.
Clarity, transparency and performance measures are all crucial elements to building an effective route to attract, engage and retain partners. This sends a clear message that ongoing development is viewed as an essential component of a thriving organisation.
Tough at the top
Coaching continues to play a crucial role in supporting those at the very top of the organisation.
This area of one to one coaching is an important part of what Gordon Cooper offers organisations and we are privileged to work with very experienced coaches who are able to deliver at the most senior level.
Throughout the year we will be working with both existing and newly appointed leaders, with a particular focus with a new European client on the challenges faced by those transitioning into senior leadership positions.
Our commitment to best practice
Reflecting Gordon Cooper’s own commitment to professional development we are very pleased that Heather Cooper will be joining eleven other master coaches from across Europe on the Ashridge Post Graduate Certificate in Advanced Coaching and Organisation Development Supervision.
This provides a fantastic opportunity to work with other experienced practitioners and demonstrates the continued drive for excellence that informs all areas of Gordon Cooper’s work.
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