Over the past years, we have observed companies implementing external coaching consultants. At Williams Allan we recognised the benefit of coaching within the organisation but it was widely acknowledged that we wanted to achieve more than employing an external consultant for a few months or on an adhoc basis. We also saw within the corporate world that coaching appeared to be accepted for the senior leadership team as a self-help/progression model instead of a development tool offered to all.

We wanted to take this to the next level and entrench coaching into the culture of the organisation and develop this as an element of the Williams Allan philosophy. Recruiting an external consultant on this occasion wasn’t seen as a priority but rather a person who already understood the challenges, pressures and culture of the organisation with a constant presence, whose door was open right at the time when you needed to share and discuss something and be able to move on without waiting a week for your next appointment with the coach. 

During discussions, it was recognised that our General Counsel, Sheba Affridi, was privy to many discussions across the organisation and she already had an existing coaching consultancy and was qualified as a coach. Taking into consideration the confidential nature of coaching, we managed to agree on a way forward and identified the components of an effective internal coach relationship.

Sheba is already in the post as General Counsel and this comes with great respect, however now as our General Counsel Coach (GCC) it now comes with more responsibility than ever before. Brian Allan CEO of Williams Allan said, “It is our job to inspire our colleagues to achieve more and be happy within themselves. The new role of GCC is a first and it comes with great responsibility, a position of guidance and oversight to help us all realise our full potential as individuals and as an aspiring and inspiring business.”

The 5 things our business gained by hiring a coach:

Time – We often talk about not having enough time. By fixing a 90 minute appointment with Sheba, the team know the session is in the diary and they have been released from their work to focus wholly on themselves. This is time we wouldn’t put aside for ourselves, to work on ourselves and reflect on how to make the changes they seek and what steps they would need to take to implement them.

Without agenda – this was key for us - they feel they have a safe space to be themselves without being judged or fear or retribution and 100% confidential. This has been such a powerful tool for us as our team feel they have been seen and heard and the coach is fully on side. 

Independent thinking - Time away from the business to explore new ideas (projects/campaigns) from inception to completion. Encouraged to think for themselves, to take the initiative and take a more creative approach to problem-solving. There are times when we all get a little stuck. Sheba has encouraged us to look at our blind spots and help uncover our next steps. Every session delivers a tangible outcome fully supported with clear next steps.

Unlocking potential – we recognise that our staff are immensely talented bringing with them their unique strengths and experiences. A key part of this individual development has been to look at and understand the limiting beliefs our team hold. 

Positive organisational culture – we were clear from the beginning that we wanted to build a coaching culture within the organisation and move far away from the ‘tell culture’ we’ve all been a part of in previous organisations. We have noticed we are brighter, feel valued and supported. Our clients also notice this and feel the benefit. 

We feel we have made the right decision to utilise coaching within the fabric and company philosophy across the business and not just directed at the leadership team. It will help us to effectively motivate, promote positive mental health and connect on a deeper level, create more trust both internally and with our clients but most importantly create an emotionally centred work environment.

Want to know more about Williams Allan?

Get in touch with us directly by contacting Brian Allan, our Chief Executive Officer, using

Email: brian@williamsallan.com

Brian's Linkedin Profile

WhatsApp: +44 (0)794 929 5097

Tel: +44 (0)203 289 2021

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Williams Allan is a global consultancy based in the UK offering immigration service, financial & tax planning, employment law and relocation services with a powerful Global capability. We work hard with our clients to get to where they want to be in the most cost-effective and efficient way. We understand our clients' plans and objectives and match our clients' needs with the right team, the right mix of skills and the right language.