Head of Department, Russell Group University
“A bright light in my professional life”
“Despite years with my employer and a fondness for them, I wasn't sure if I was still making a positive difference or if my future lay there. Sam listened carefully and asked thoughtful questions that made me see things differently. She reminded me that while we can influence our work environment, the most significant change comes from within. This clarity helped me realise I needed to find a new job. I committed to a career change, and eight months later, I accepted a position at a new organisation.
Sam’s coaching style is a reflection of her as a person—warm, approachable, calm, confident, and insightful. She asks great questions and supportively challenges you to think deeply. Her combination of capability, effectiveness, decency, and kindness is rare and invaluable.
I strongly recommend Sam to anyone considering professional coaching. Investing in yourself through professional coaching to reflect, make decisions, and learn is incredibly valuable, and Sam Henney is fantastic for this journey. She supports, challenges, and encourages with skill, warmth, and tact, leaving you feeling positive and determined.
Three benefits I experienced from our coaching conversations include:
1. Feeling seen and heard in a way that day-to-day work rarely allows.
2. Realising that not fitting in a particular role doesn't mean there's something wrong with me, but rather that it's time for a change.
3. Firmly deciding to change my career, committing to the process, and successfully transitioning to a new job.
Her wise counsel, measured thoughts, and words of encouragement were a bright light in my professional life, boosting my confidence and helping me open a new chapter.”
Interim Director, Museums Sector
“Precious space to reflect on my challenges & gain perspective”
"I sought coaching with Sam during a challenging period when I was acting as Director while retaining my original role. It felt like a big stretch, and I wasn't sure if I had the capacity to do both, but it was clearly an opportunity. Making the time to think about my approach and reflect on challenges as they arose was incredibly helpful.
During this time, coaching provided a precious space for me to reflect on my challenges and gain perspective. It helped me become more strategic and engage deeply with my leadership experience. I gained a better understanding of my leadership style and increased confidence in my ability to lead the wider team.
Sam’s coaching style was immensely helpful. The structure she provided allowed me to ask important questions, while her flexibility enabled me to explore new issues as they arose. Sam is a great listener, and her significant professional experience enriches her coaching practice.
Prioritising time to reflect on your leadership approach or tackle a specific professional challenge with Sam is time and money very well spent. I’ve benefited from increased confidence, clarity in choices, and a deeper awareness of my leadership style.”
Head of Department & Charity Trustee, Heritage Sector
“Broad business knowledge & deep understanding”
“I was very concerned about transitioning from full-time work to retirement, which felt like a bleak option with not much to recommend it. Sam helped me see that retirement was a door opening rather than one closing, revealing options I hadn't realised were available.
Sam challenged me on whether I truly meant what I said and always focused on drawing out the positives from any negatives. This approach provided clarity and lifted the fog from my mind.
I would thoroughly recommend Sam's coaching to anyone, even if just to clear their thoughts and gain clarity. Sam took the time to understand me, and as a result, I always left our meetings feeling thoroughly positive about my future.
The personal element of Sam's coaching was crucial for me. She built trust and confidence with her broad business knowledge and deep understanding of my issues. This personal touch made all the difference.
Thanks to Sam's coaching, I've gained a clear direction, a positive attitude towards the future, and a sense of relief knowing I'm not alone in facing these challenges. I was surprised at how much better I felt after Sam recognised my concerns, addressed them thoroughly, and provided me with a positive outlook.”
