Consultancy

What Jim offers 

 Jim knows first-hand that the problems faced by leaders do not fall into neat boxes. He has the broad range of skills and experience as well as the wisdom and humility to help leaders stand back, reflect and plan ways through the challenges they face. 

Jim knows that finding the right way is not just about analysis; it also requires the courage to have the difficult conversations with the blockers and the flair to lead change that takes people on the journey. These are tough issues for leaders faced with the incessant clamour of the ‘urgent’ and Jim’s understanding and care has been welcomed by the people he has supported.

Examples of Jim's support

With 45 years of making his own mistakes and getting stuck, Jim knows the benefit of having a safe place for leaders to think out loud, share their uncertainty and vulnerability and develop fresh perspectives. No two organisations are the same but a toolbox of skills and experience enables Jim to:-
  • hold up a mirror of employee mood including their ideas, hopes and fears and what they really think of the leadership they get and the direction of the organisation.
  • work with leaders and their teams to clarify purpose and direction but also work with an organisation’s culture.
  • support leaders find a language and tone that feels authentic
  • help leaders prepare for difficult discussions where there are blockages; and
  • coach leaders and support them in staying fresh and looking after their inner core.
As well as working as an independent, Jim is able to draw on the experience and resources of colleagues at Simon Barrow Associates. 

If you would like a no-commitment chat please email Jim. 

What people say

Jim ran a major listening exercise at NAHT. He quickly built trust with a diverse range of people and produced a challenging report; but one that was honest, full of wisdom and helped me, as a new General Secretary, move things on for the better. I cannot thank him enough.

Paul Whiteman, General Secretary, NAHT 
Jim is a great listener, able to work with people from all backgrounds to identify the blockages and help navigate a way through.

Chris Browne, previous Chief Operating Officer, easyJet  and MD Thomson’s Airways
Jim is restless. 
The status quo is not good enough. 
He is always looking for something better. 

Lord John Monks, previous General Secretary, TUC





Jim uses his experience and listening skills to draw deep insight into an organisation's mood, which helped me enormously to shape the next stage of FDA’s progress. His understanding of the demands of leadership helped me focus on my own development journey and have changed how I manage and lead the organisation. 

Dave Penman, General Secretary, First Division Association
Jim has been involved in Celebration of Being since 2013. He regularly supports us to provide a kind, loving and supportive space for participants. The experience can often be emotional for participants and Jim listens deeply, with his compassionate heart and grounded nature. He takes responsibility for his role and has a good overview of the bigger picture. He leads from his heart and by example in an organised, calm and patient way that garners admiration and trust from others. He is a shining example of an Elder, sharing his wisdom and experience which is so needed in our world. 

Debbie Beauchamp, Director, Celebration of Being


I've seen Jim work with Boards as both a CEO and an NED. He provides insight, challenge and resourcefulness.

Seamus Gillen, Director, Governance Adviser, and former Policy Director of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators





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