Case study
Executive development: Gail, Executive in FTSE 50 insurance business
The client
Gail, an executive within a FTSE 50 insurance business, had been recognised as a high-potential leader due to her strategic mindset, self-analytical nature, and technical expertise. She was transitioning from a role specialising in Strategy and M&A to general management. The company engaged ig to unlock her full leadership potential and ensure her success in this broader role.
The brief
Gail was in a role she enjoyed but felt she wasn’t fully realising her potential. She sought to understand what was holding her back and how to elevate her performance to the next level. Gail wanted a comprehensive and functional development plan tailored to her specific needs and goals, rather than a superficial coaching experience.
What we did
360-degree feedback
We began by gathering 360-degree feedback from a wide cross-section of colleagues, offering Gail a detailed perspective on how others perceived her. Conducting these conversations over the phone, rather than through standardised forms, provided deeper insights and challenged her preconceived notions about herself.
Exploring personal background
Our work also delved into Gail’s past, exploring how her community-oriented upbringing and the influence of a strong father figure affected her leadership style, particularly in managing a team of older, male colleagues. This exploration was crucial in helping her understand the dynamics at play in her professional interactions.
Developing practical strategies
Throughout the coaching process, we addressed Gail’s discomfort with certain aspects of her role, such as handling poor performance or difficult behaviour. We encouraged her to be “appropriately unreasonable”—to assertively address issues in a way that promotes positive change rather than taking on the burden of fixing them herself. Our approach was flexible, allowing adjustments to the coaching plan to meet her evolving needs, and included ongoing support outside of formal sessions.
The results
Self-awareness and adaptability
The coaching instilled in Gail a habit of reflecting more deeply on her behaviour and its impact on others. She adjusted her leadership style to better fit the company’s culture, moving from a directive approach to one focused on collaboration and shared objectives.
Revamped team dynamics
Gail restructured her team, improving gender balance and bringing in new capabilities. This shift catalysed a more dynamic environment with greater diversity of thought, increased friction in a productive way, and a stronger culture of honesty, openness, and collaboration.
Evolved leadership approach
Gail transitioned from a rigid view of leadership, influenced by traditional male role models, to a more authentic and flexible style. She embraced her unique way of leading, realising that she didn’t need to “power up” to achieve results. Her approach now includes fostering good, honest, and challenging conversations, which has garnered positive feedback from her team.
What our client had to say
In summary
Gail’s coaching journey with ig facilitated a significant transformation in her leadership style and team dynamics. By gaining deeper self-awareness, embracing flexibility, and fostering a collaborative environment, Gail is now better equipped to lead her team effectively and achieve her business objectives. The tailored and ongoing support provided by ig has enabled her to exceed her own expectations and continue her development as a high-impact leader.
