James Barker

With 15 years’ experience leading, marketing, and communications in the charity sector, I spent my career understanding what motivates people and what helps them to thrive. My work has spanned strategic leadership, brand and engagement, and building high‑performing teams, supported by a Business with Marketing degree, CIM DipM, a Level 5 Management diploma, and Level 5 coaching certification.

Across those years, I guided teams through change, and influenced at senior levels to unlock growth. But it was coaching that helped me develop the confidence, clarity, and self‑trust he needed to lead in a way that felt authentic. Experiencing that shift first hand is what ultimately led me train as a coach.

What you can gain:

• More confidence in yourself, especially when making decisions or speaking up.
• A clearer sense of direction, knowing what matters most and where to focus your energy.
• Practical ways to handle self‑doubt, pressure, or tricky situations at work.
• A simple next step, leaving each session knowing exactly what to do next.

Growing up gay has meant I didnt feel confident to be myself and this formative years has impacted in my whole life. I understand those pressures for LGBTQ+ people. Outside work, I recharge through travel, going on East London food adventures, arts and culture, time in nature, and running marathons. Im also a sewer, currently making quilts and soft furnishings as a reminder that growth comes from trying something new.

Don’t take my word for it - here are some testimonials from people I have worked with.

"James was a brilliant coach and a real support during a period of change in both my work and personal life. He’s friendly, approachable and asks the right questions to help you see things differently. I’d highly recommend him."

"I can thoroughly recommend James to anyone considering coaching. I had the pleasure of being his coachee and he provided hugely valuable support and guidance.. He helped me navigate challenging internal dynamics, including a restructure, and also helped me define my case for promotion (which was successful). He is open, strategically minded and genuinely cares about people - perfect coach qualities! I hope our paths cross again in future and wouldn't hesitate to get back in touch for more career guidance."

I had the privilege of receiving coaching from James through a mentoring scheme, and it was hugely impactful on my career as well as my personal life. I didn't have any prior experience of coaching, so I wasn't sure what to expect, but James explained everything really clearly and made the sessions accessible and engaging. I still use some of the 'homework' today! 

I didn't realise how helpful coaching could be, but James' approach helped me to reframe the way I see my career and work/life balance. After our sessions I felt confident enough to step outside of my comfort zone and find a new career opportunity that aligned with my personal values and priorities - it was something totally unfamiliar to me, but I'm thrilled I made that step as I now have clarity and confidence in what I want to do.

"I'm very grateful to James for the time he spent coaching me, and am pleased to say it's still having a positive impact on my life several years later! I would absolutely recommend James as a coach for anyone who is looking for direction, or struggling with change and uncertainty."

”THROUGH COACHING, JAMES WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN GUIDING ME THROUGH A PIVOTAL TRANSITIONAL PERIOD IN MY LIFE. HE HELPED ME SET AMBITIOUS YET ATTAINABLE GOALS IN KEY AREAS, FOSTERING MY PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT”

LBGTQ+
imposter syndrome 

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