Mel Lambert
Mel Lambert is an experienced coach and facilitator based in Adelaide/Tarndanya. With a background spanning government, not‑for‑profit, community and private sectors, Mel brings a rare ability to work comfortably across systems while staying deeply attuned to the human experience within them.
A defining feature of Mel’s practice is her depth of expertise in co‑design and participatory approaches. She is skilled at designing and facilitating processes that genuinely engage diverse stakeholders—particularly where there are competing priorities, power imbalances or sensitive issues at play. Her facilitation style is structured, purposeful, playful and inclusive, while remaining flexible enough to respond to what emerges in the room.
As a coach, Mel works with leaders and professionals at pivotal moments—when roles are shifting, confidence is being tested or new ways of working are required. Her coaching style is thoughtful, grounded and pragmatic, with a unique blend of directness and warmth that she squarely blames on her Northern Irish upbringing. She asks incisive questions, listens deeply, and helps people connect values with action.
Mel is also widely recognised for her work challenging ageism and reshaping how we think about ageing, intergenerational dynamics and longevity. Her ‘Life Beyond Work’ program, one of her Life Navigation Lab career coaching brand, has been a finalist in the South Australian Tackling Ageism Award and Mel currently sits on Global Access Partner’s Standing Committee on Productive Ageing.
When not working, Mel co-hosts (and sometimes tells stories at) a storytelling night in Adelaide called Tenx9, where nine people have ten minutes each to share a true story from their life on a theme. If you’re ever in town, she’d love to welcome you into this warm and welcoming community!
Areas of Expertise
Executive, Senior and Emerging Leader Coaching
Co‑design and Participatory Engagement
Career development and transitions
Narrative-based coaching and sensemaking
Strategic planning
Capability Building in Facilitation and Engagement
Ageing, Longevity and Workforce Transitions
Intergenerational collaboration and dialogue
Systems Thinking and Strategic Sense‑Making
Change and Transition Support
Values‑Based Leadership and Ethical Practice
Psychological Safety and Inclusion
Wellbeing
“Mel is an amazing coach, after just one coaching session I felt I understood my career aspirations and my own valuable skill set more clearly. She provided me with the tools to analyse my own core values, and identify the next steps required for my future career path. I can’t thank Mel enough for all her amazing support and would highly recommend a coaching session to anyone looking for some guidance on taking the next steps in your career”
“I have transformed from someone who constantly battled imposter syndrome to a confident and engaging individual. I deeply appreciated how you listened, helped me to refine my goals, and kept me forward-thinking, always asking what’s next. This journey has been truly transformative, leaving me inspired, motivated, respected, and supported throughout.”
- Coaching Testimonials