James Young
James Young is an accomplished leadership coach who works with individuals and teams across to strengthen leadership capability, clarity, and impact. With more than two decades of experience spanning research and federal government, James brings both strategic insight and practical understanding of complex operating environments. He is passionate about empowering individuals and teams to achieve their full potential.
James has held roles delivering policy outcomes, leading high-performing teams, and driving innovation initiatives within government. This lived experience enables him to partner effectively with senior leaders, emerging leaders, and technical specialists navigating change, growth, and increasing responsibility. He understands the pressures of public sector leadership and supports clients to think clearly, communicate effectively, and lead with confidence in dynamic and often ambiguous contexts.
James’ coaching style is thoughtful, engaging, and practical. He asks considered questions, listens deeply, and creates a space where clients feel supported while also being constructively challenged. He helps leaders strengthen strategic thinking, communication, decision-making, and personal effectiveness, always with an eye on what will make a meaningful difference in their day-to-day leadership.
Personally, James is generous with praise, quick to smile, and deeply values learning from history to inform innovation and leadership practice. His approach inspires individuals and teams to embrace challenges, grow through experience, and lead with purpose.
Areas of Expertise
Leadership development
Communication
Futures thinking
Career design and planning
Planning and collaboration days
Presentation and Facilitation Skills
“James helped me transition to a new phase in my career. He has a great ability to help his clients figure out what they want to achieve and how they can get there by working out what the challenges are and ways to overcome them, building up strengths and introducing useful tools and resources.”
-Testimonials from coaching clients