Working in the humanitarian and development sectors, whether in the UK or abroad, brings its own challenges that are often unique in the world of work. The stressors are different, the lifestyle more itinerant and the culture of organisations, and their people, often operating in a different mode to that of the commercial sector.

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Why work with me?

 

The theory is that a good coach can coach anyone, provided there is rapport, no matter what the challenge or background of the client. Of course that is true.  However, as someone who worked in this sector for over 23 years, I know how important it can be, when looking for support, to feel that the person you are working with understands your world, how rewarding it is, but also how difficult it can be, at times, to navigate your way through.

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I also know that life can be unpredictable and time-zones challenging. I can work with you to find times and approaches that work with your commitments. 

I have worked for large International NGOs such as UK-Med, Oxfam, Care International, Merlin, among others. My roles have mostly been in programme management and coordination, as well as in institutional funding.  I have spent a number of years living abroad, often in insecure locations or on short term, first phase response missions.

Countries have included Haiti, Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, Madagascar, Kosovo, Jordan and OPT.  I have also held a number of head office roles, in both humanitarian and development, including managing large consoritiums.  During the first year of the COVID pandemic, I took a temporary return to full time work as Director of Operations for UK-Med, deploying Emergency Medical Teams on behalf of the FCDO/ WHO. 

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Alongside my coaching work, I train NGO workers on personal security and Hostile Environment Awareness (HEAT) courses. A big part of my role in these courses is to deliver sessions on risk assessment and management, dealing with sexual violence, personal stress and resilience and run mentor groups.  I really enjoy meeting the people I train, who come from all over the world and work in the most complex of places.  Discussions with these people often confirm the need for more dedicated coaches for the humanitarian sector.

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For more information, see the ‘Coaching for You’ and 'About Tess' pages.