5 Things to Look out for in a Leadership Coach who Actually Drives Change

If you’re frustrated with the way businesses operate - short-term thinking, profit at all costs, neglect of people and the planet - you’re not alone. More leaders than ever are searching for a better way to do business, one that balances profit with purpose and prioritises long-term impact.

The challenge? Finding an executive coach or coaching organisation that doesn’t just reinforce the status quo. Too many leadership coaches focus on helping individuals succeed within the existing system rather than equipping them to break free from it. If you want to drive real change - whether it’s tackling the climate crisis, restoring trust in organisations, or treating employees with decency - you need a coach who shares that vision.

So, how do you find the right coaching partner? Here are five key things to look for:

1. A coach who challenges the status quo

The right coach won’t just help you “win” within the current system - they’ll help you rethink it entirely. Look for someone who isn’t afraid to ask tough questions, push you out of your comfort zone, and encourage you to explore new models of leadership that benefit not just shareholders, but employees, communities, and the environment too.

2. A focus on regenerative thinking, not just resilience

Many coaching programmes talk about resilience, but resilience alone is not enough. Leaders need to move beyond simply surviving in a broken system and instead create something better. A strong coach will help you adopt a regenerative mindset, where business success is measured not just in quarterly profits but in the positive impact on people and the planet.

3. Someone who helps you thrive through change

Leading differently can be exhausting. When you’re pushing for change in an environment that resists it, burnout is a real risk. A great coach helps you manage your energy, stay focused, and navigate uncertainty - so you can keep driving change without losing sight of your purpose.

4. A clear commitment to people, planet, and profit

Many coaching companies claim to support purpose-driven leadership, but when you dig deeper, their advice is still centred on maximising profit above all else. The best coaches work with organisations that truly care about the triple bottom line - people, planet, and profit - and will challenge you to lead in a way that aligns with your values.

5. A coach with deep expertise, not a one-size-fits-all approach

Beware of coaching companies that offer an overwhelming menu of services. The best coaches have a clear specialism - whether it’s regenerative business, ethical leadership, or stakeholder-driven decision-making. Look for a coaching partner with deep expertise in the kind of leadership you want to embody, rather than a generic leadership development programme.

Final thought: Choose a coach who helps you lead with purpose

If you’re looking for a coach who will help you lead differently - one who challenges outdated thinking, puts purpose at the heart of leadership, and supports you in building a legacy that goes beyond profit - we’d love to hear from you.