About Alison
“When leadership is in service of others and of creating a better world, it is enormously fulfilling.”
Change rarely begins with certainty — it begins with a moment of courage.
For me, that moment came early in my career, challenging everyday sexism in the workplace — heart pounding, unsure of the outcome, but certain it mattered. That instinct to question and speak up has shaped my path ever since.
My 20 years at the Financial Times gave me a global perspective on organisations and leadership and led to three co-authored books on women in business, inclusion, and the future of work. But my ideas and actions are also deeply rooted in my own life experiences.
One pivotal step was moving to Paris as a Reuters correspondent — a dream job early in my career, but one that meant stepping into the unknown and embracing a new culture where I knew almost no one.
The risk paid off, expanding my worldview and reinforcing my belief in taking courageous decisions, even when they feel uncomfortable.
Over time, I came to see leadership not as something vested in a few individuals, but as something we create together. I believe in a more human, collective approach — grounded in humility, shared purpose, and creating space for others to grow.
After two decades at the Financial Times, I made another bold choice: stepping away to build an independent, purpose-driven second career. Today, as a coach, facilitator and author, I support others to navigate change, lead collaboratively, and move from uncertainty to meaningful action.
Alongside my professional journey, I am proud of the life I have built with my husband and our two daughters — sharing careers, family life, and a commitment to doing things differently, including pioneering flexible working through a job-share role. I love taking long walks and gaining inspiration, joy and resilience from being in nature.
At the heart of my work is this belief: when we lead together, with courage and care, we can create more inclusive, resilient organisations, and a better future for humanity and our shared planetary home.


Key Facts
- Member and former Vice Chair of International Women’s Forum UK, and a founder member of its Racial Equity group
- Member/organiser with Climate Coaching Alliance
- Mentor with Climate Bridges
- Former Chair, Executive Board, Bayes Business School Global Women’s Leadership Programme
- Former Director, Conference Board Europe’s Council for Diversity & Inclusion in Business
- Recipient of the 'Women Who Make a Difference' Award from International Women’s Forum, and ‘World of Difference 100 Award’ from The International Alliance for Women



