About Florence
My passion lies in making a difference by empowering individuals and communities to create positive change and live fulfilled lives. With a background in education, health, and social care, I'm dedicated to contributing to a new paradigm in these fields. I've experienced firsthand the transformative power of coaching and how it elevates consciousness, restores personal power, cultivates leadership, and sparks meaningful change in people's lives.
My journey to coaching
Born in Lyon, France, I moved to London in 1987 and to Scotland in 1994, working in community development and education. Facing a life-threatening illness in 2007 prompted a deep reevaluation of my beliefs and approach to life. This profound shift was the start of a journey of continuous learning and self-discovery.
Most importantly, I gradually realised how my physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual energy influenced my perception of the world and how the world perceived me. This changed my outlook on life and on how I presented myself to the world. Strengthened by a deeper connection to my inner self, I aligned my energy with my goals, and was able to create positive changes and achievements in my personal life.
Professionally, it inspired me to become a more conscious and empowered leader. I led a wonderful organisation for 14 years until March 2021. A year later, I became a Certified Professional Coach, specialising in leadership with the following qualifications:
- IPEC Certified Professional Coach (CPC)
- Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner (ELI-MP)
- COR.E Leadership Dynamics Specialist (CLDS)
Experienced CEO
As the former CEO of a leading regional support organisation in health & social care, I bring a unique perspective to coaching and organisational development. I was the CEO of Lothian Centre for Inclusive Living (LCIL) for 14 years, leading a dynamic team of 20+ individuals. My hands-on experience in navigating the complexities of executive leadership equips me with the insights and strategies needed to help other CEOs, executives, and organisations thrive.
Having been in your shoes, I understand the challenges and opportunities that come with leading a team and driving organisational success. My approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Whether you're looking to enhance your leadership skills, improve team performance, or drive strategic growth, I offer coaching that is both practical and transformative.
Professional experience
I bring extensive experience in leadership and organisational development, across community development, education, and health and social care sectors. Read more about my previous roles, awards and participation in various training programmes.
Co-founder and Chair of SDSS
For 14 years, I was Chair of a national user-led organisation, Self Directed Support Scotland (SDSS). During this time, I created and sustained numerous effective partnerships with statutory and non-statutory organisations on practice, policy development, and the delivery of national projects.
Honorary OBE award
In February 2020, I was appointed by the Queen as an honorary Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE) in recognition of my services to the Independent Living Movement.
Leadership training for Edinburgh health and social care leaders
Between October 2013 and June 2014, I was invited to attend 14 days of leadership training for key Edinburgh leaders in health and social care, focusing on health and social care integration. This extensive and wide-reaching course, Living Leadership, was led by Animate Consulting Scotland.
MIT U-Lab MOOC and Presencing Institute Foundation Programme
In 2015, as a member of one of the first groups to follow the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) MOOC U-Lab: Transforming Business, Society, and Self, I was sponsored by the Scottish Government to go to Berlin, Germany, to complete the Presencing Institute Foundation Programme.