Career Transitions Coach 

How did your career in career development begin?

I started as a therapeutic counsellor, moving to the UAE in 2008 meant a necessary pivot since Western counselling wasn't fully recognised. That pushed me into HR consultancy, focusing on psychometric testing. Things really clicked in Canada, working in publicly funded employment services – that's where I fully embraced being a Career Development Professional (CDP). Since then, it's been higher education, consultancy, public service, and now outplacement support in the UK.

Key turning points?

Seeing CDPs at the University of Leeds in 2006 was a lightbulb moment. Being hired on the spot in the UAE showed me the power of readiness. Canada taught me the depth of structured career development, and it was a privilege to train other CDPs there. Most recently, co-creating the #SoMuchMoreThanTalkingAboutJobs campaign with Katherine Jennick was a career high. Giving voice to CDPs globally and seeing it still used today makes me incredibly proud.

What challenges have shaped your path?

Persistence has been key. I earned my undergraduate degree at 35, through five years of night school, and my master’s at 50. Adapting across cultures – UK, UAE, Canada – also taught me invaluable lessons. These transitions taught me firsthand how to support internationally trained professionals, not just from theory.

Tell us about your current work.

I focus on career consulting, outplacement support, and workshop facilitation. I help executive-level and professional clients navigate transitions – rebuilding their career narratives, personal brands, and job search strategies. A lot of it is practical coaching on CVs, LinkedIn, interview prep, and salary negotiation. But it's equally about emotional support and reigniting their confidence. I also design and deliver job search webinars across Canada and champion the global careers community via LinkedIn. Ethics and diverse lived experience are central to my practice.

What’s your personal work philosophy?

The client is the expert in their own experience. My role is to learn from them, helping them problem-solve, reflect, and move forward with clarity. Career work is never just about the job; it's about identity, purpose, and navigating change.

Who has influenced your career?

So many incredible people. Dr. Clair Souter from the University of Leeds was pivotal. Others include Liane Hambly, Dr. Siobhan Neary, Gillian Johnston CCDP, Jenny Ide, Howard Penney, Katherine Jennick, Debbie Dymock, Ken Roberts, Wendy Patton, and Mary McMahon. Their leadership, innovation, and generosity continue to inspire me.

What does a typical day look like?

There’s no typical day! It could be supporting individuals at termination meetings for a dignified transition, or 1:1 coaching clients through next steps. I often run webinars, review client materials, and collaborate online within the careers space. Advocacy is a constant rhythm – sharing insights and campaigns to elevate the sector.  

Where do you see the sector heading?

We need to bring in new voices and talent, and boldly promote the depth of our impact. CDPs make a real difference, and we must communicate that clearly and confidently. We also need to stay tech-savvy and future-focused, without ever losing the human heart of our work.

What advice would you give to new CDPs?

Don’t be shy - connect with seasoned CDPs. We’re a welcoming group!

Be open to learning, challenge, and innovation.

If you’re curious about human behaviour and have emotional resilience, you’ll thrive.

Learn across borders; different systems offer unique insights.

Always centre the client’s story.

Final thoughts on careers?

Careers work is more than employability; it’s about voice, identity, belonging, and navigating uncertainty. To build a profession that truly reflects the people we serve, we must lead with empathy, embrace change, and lift each other up.