David Calder — Executive CoachDavid Calder

About

David Calder, Executive Coach

My coaching practice is built on a belief formed early in my career.

People think best when they feel respected, trusted, and genuinely heard.

I formed that belief early in my career. Seeing talented individuals navigating pressure, complexity, and constant change, I realised that what made the biggest difference wasn't a new process or tool, but the rare opportunity to reflect and speak freely without judgement. My calm, forward-looking, and practical style helped people access ideas and strengths they didn't realise they had. Coaching grew naturally from this: creating space, listening deeply, and helping people move forward with intention.

How I work

I keep my approach simple and human. I work with clients to co-create a trusted thinking space. This allows us to quickly reach the heart of what matters, explore new perspectives, and build on the capabilities the client already possesses. Tools and frameworks are used sparingly. For me, meaningful change begins in the relationship itself, because people think and lead better when they feel truly heard.

Who I work with

Clients come with challenges that are often deeply human: stepping into bigger leadership roles, strengthening teams, navigating career transitions, or working through complex interpersonal dynamics. I help leaders understand their strengths, clarify their values, and build confidence in their own leadership. I create the conditions for better collaboration and healthier ways of working, supporting clients to uncover patterns, shift assumptions, and move forward with clarity.

Although my background is in engineering and operations, I have experience in the education and charity sectors, and have worked with clients across many other industries. I am happy to work wherever the client is based.

I work in accordance with the Global Code of Ethics for coaching and mentoring.

Background

Glasgow

University of Glasgow

BSc (Hons First Class) Mechanical Engineering. Technical rigour and an early realisation of the value of collaborating.

Early Career

Engineering & Projects

Managing major capital projects before moving into operations leadership.

International

China, South Korea, South Africa

Bringing operational and engineering expertise and navigating different cultural environments.

2016–2024

Site Director, Solenis UK

Operations Director for a chemical manufacturing site with £200m annual revenue, 550 employees, and £80m operational budget.

July 2024–

Executive Coach

Stepped back from operations to focus on helping leaders and teams perform at their best.

Qualifications

  • ILM Level 7 Diploma in Executive Coaching & Mentoring
  • BSc (Hons First Class) Mechanical Engineering, University of Glasgow
ILM qualification badgeILM qualification badge

Outside of work

I am an enthusiastic runner: hills, trails, cross-country and roads. I enjoy the great outdoors. I was elected a Trustee of the Scottish Youth Hostels Association in 2009 and served as Chair between 2012 and 2019. I am currently Chair of Governors for a primary school in Bradford and a Director of Bradford Manufacturing Futures, a not-for-profit company established to support local industry through the clean growth transition.

Thinking about working together? Start with a free conversation.