David is the founder of Manufacturing with Purpose and a leading expert in employee engagement and coaching.
David is passionate about people development and is an advocate for employee engagement especially within manufacture and engineering. As a professional coach, David works with entrepreneurs and leaders in a technical environment to bring out their full potential and create fulfilling and purposeful careers.
We spoke with David to find out brought him to a career in coaching, what gets him out of bed each morning and hear about his passion for running and travel.
When did you know you wanted to pursue a career in coaching?
Although an engineering by training I’ve always loved psychology and am inspired by stories of bravery and courage. In 2018 a friend of mine recommended that I do a coaching fundamentals course. It was in London over a weekend and, as it was fully refundable if not satisfied, I thought I had nothing to lose! It was absolutely amazing and I’ve never felt more clear that this was the type of work that I wanted to do.
What inspires you to come to work each day?
I really hate waste and seeing people being bullied into powerlessness by their own self-doubt! I really believe work can be fun and fulfilling and this is something worth fighting for. My family means everything to me and being my best for them is a massive driver.
What advice would you give someone who's interested in this career?
Coaching is amazingly fulfilling work which is badly needed in all walks of business and personal life. Practically I would recommend you learn to coach within your company or outside of your day-job well before going solo. There’s a lot to learn about the business of coaching which does requires maturity and patience. Doing coaching training will teach you so much about yourself and your values that I would recommend some training in this to anyone in a leadership position. Oh yes, and do get a coach, if you believe coaching brings out the best in people than invest in yourself. Money follows commitment and commitment leads to results.
What skills are important for someone in your role?
Everything can be learned but I would say you should naturally love people and have a deep and compelling personal goal which you are prepared to own fully.
What do you love best about your job?
Freedom to operate globally and a built-in-necessity to keep myself in excellent physical and mental health.
Tell us about your proudest professional moment so far?
One of my proudest moments was seeing someone gain the courage to speak to his boss about leaving after 30 years of service. He was earning good money, competent and well respected but was not truly fulfilled. Within a few months he was up and running with his own company doing something he truly loved and believed in. I feel lucky to have witness his courage and have played a part in unlocking his potential. This said – most of my coaching results in people focussing on their existing responsibilities where courage is needed to take the business in a new direction, step up or have those difficult but essential conversations which unlock things.
What interests do you have outside of work?
I love to travel and have friends all over the world. I feel most alive when I am out adventuring in nature and can enjoy the simplicity of life. I enjoy running and in 2022 will run my first city marathon – Paris 2022.
What is your mantra?
“No pain no gain” or “work hard, play hard”. They both sounds a bit stoic but people often tell me that I get over-excited about jumping into cold water, getting up early or saying yes to a ridiculous dare that I know this to have become my approach.
If you'd like to support with developing your employees and would like to learn more about coaching services please visit our Learning and Development page.
