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.

Building A Global Team - Our Approach

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.

Global Contracting

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.

What our Client Notices:

• Consistently high standard of coaching and service from the Gordon  Cooper Team
• Regular contact to communicate progress with a highly valuable discussion of insights gained about key themes.
• A proactive service in which we anticipate and future developments in the programme and make our suggestions accordingly.
• Easy to contact Lead Coach and quick response

What Our Team Notice

• A comprehensive programme of support including 1:1 conversations (any time), team conference calls every month, team meetings quarterly and the provision of independent coach supervision.
• Regular briefings and updates so that each coach knows the context in which they are working, what is expected and all the logistical requirements such as programme timings etc.
• A catalyst for the team to share best practice, encourage innovation and strive for excellence.
• Easy to contact Lead Coach and quick response

Team day

In light of the sustained growth in our team across Europe the time was right to hold a GCA team day.

The directors, the executive coaching team and the supporting staff came together to Meet, Share, and Connect at a team day in central London. With a focus on continual shared learning it was quickly apparent how valuable it was to devote time to sharing expertise across the team, strengthening the collective vision and extending ourselves to deliver even better service to our clients.

Presentations on blended learning solutions, executive coaching, building a coaching culture, 360 degree feedback and psychometrics, supervision, research, and team coaching provided a fantastic vehicle for communicating ideas and sharing expertise across the full range of our services.

The energy and enthusiasm from the whole team was truly inspirational and our very warm thanks are extended to everyone for their participation, as we continue to build a strong and transformational business committed to excellence in the profession.

New collaborations

Joy Bussell, Director, Insight Oxford

Continually looking at how to add value, GCA is very pleased to be able to collaborate with Insight Oxford on initiatives where bespoke tailored research would benefit a specific talent development strategy. Combining GCA’s expertise in executive coaching, leadership development and talent solutions with IOL’s experience and capability in research further enhances both the range and quality of services available to the client.

GCA is delighted to announce a new relationship with Grovelands, recruitment specialists in the financial services, consultancy and technology sectors. Working with Grovelands enables GCA to extend its reach in the area of talent development solutions across the professional services sectors.

Professional development

Contributing to the growing body of experience in the area of team coaching Andrew Cooper, Director, GCA, has begun the Systemic Team Coach Master Practitioner Diploma with the Academy of Executive Coaching. Commenting on his reasons for joining the programme Andrew said,

“ Every day we see the powerful effects 1:1 executive coaching has in transforming the impact of the individual and leaders. I have joined the programme as I see great potential in expanding the impact coaching can have in creating high performing teams. I am therefore very keen to explore possibilities and contribute to the development of best practice in this area”.

Andrew has agreed a collaboration with Faithful & Gould which will involve Andrew and Tara Nolan (a colleague on the programme) working with the London and South East Region management team.

“ We are excited to be working with Stephen Hateley and his team. We will start our diagnostic work In July 2013 and then collaborate on a monthly basis by providing a programme of input and team facilitation and 1:1 coaching. With the agreement of the team we hope to share key insights gained from this collaboration, so watch out for thought provoking updates!”