Transformational Leadership: Inspiring Change

John has over 20 years’ leadership experience across public services, with a background in psychological therapy and mental health. He began his career supporting homeless people in Liverpool before moving into NHS mental health services and later joining the Greater Manchester Health and Social Care Partnership during the region’s devolution. Now Director of Organisational Development and Culture for NHS Greater Manchester, he leads programmes on culture, equality, and workforce development. John also champions race equality and sits on key regional boards promoting good employment. Outside of work, he chairs arts charity Abandon Normal Devices and is a singer-songwriter with two albums.

Sarah Clarke is a co-founder of Think Organisation and a leading Business Psychologist with over 20 years’ experience in senior leadership. A Chartered Director and CBT coach, she helps founders and executives build high-performance cultures that drive real business impact. Known for her collaborative and empowering style, Sarah blends scientific insight with practical expertise to deliver lasting organisational change. She’s worked across 30+ industries, including the NHS and global firms, and her accolades include a Top 10 UK Employer award. A sought-after keynote speaker featured on the BBC and ITV, Sarah brings strategic clarity, integrity, and compassion to leadership development.

Gillian is an experienced chair, non-executive director, advisor, and mentor, with a strong track record of supporting purpose-driven organisations that prioritise people and growth. Currently holding a number of NED role, Gillian serves as Chair of Back on Track, a Manchester-based charity, and as a Board Member of the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter.

With extensive leadership experience in global retail, Gillian has held pivotal roles within IKEA Group across diverse international markets. She was CEO for IKEA in China, UK & Ireland, and more recently, led IKEA’s global consumer experience. Her career has been defined by a passion for making a meaningful difference to both people and businesses. She is known for driving business growth and sustained profitability by fostering inclusive organisational cultures and transforming business practices.

Gillian’s leadership at IKEA UK led to a significant milestone in 2017 when the company became the first large retailer to achieve accreditation as a Real Living Wage Employer. This achievement highlights her long-term commitment to humanistic values—believing that when employees receive fair compensation and positive working conditions, it not only boosts their well-being but also enhances customer experiences, driving long-term growth and success for the business.

An exiled Scotsman, Ian has spent his career working on environmental and public health issues – and the socioeconomic policies that underpin them – from community to international levels.

Starting his career as an environmental health officer with Carlisle City Council, he has worked in delivery, policy and leadership roles for Edinburgh City Council, the Health and Safety Executive, the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, The World Health Organisation (Euro), the UK Public Health Association, Groundwork UK and The Growth Company.

Since March 2019, he has led the development and implementation of the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter, – an initiative established by the Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham in his first term and now a major policy foundation to help address employment related inequalities and build economic and social resilience in his second.