Leadership Strategies for Workplace Excellence

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.

Cordie is co-founder of Coco Operative CIC. She was born an adoptee in a small, white, German town, struggling with identity and belonging she rebelled against authority, norms and injustice. Her determined nature turned into a relentless drive to challenge the very systems prevented her from feeling seen and supported.

With a career in complex behavioural change, she has led interventions for those navigating domestic abuse, addiction, criminality, and mental health struggles. Cordie is a qualified Social Worker, a Positive Intelligence (PQ) Coach, and a specialist in trauma-informed coaching and leadership development.

Cordie holds an ILM Diploma in Professional Coaching, BA Hons, MSc in Social Work, BA Hons in Social Science, and Foundation Diploma in Social Pedagogy and Sales and Marketing. Cordie is an experienced Senior Leader and Accredited Supervisor and hold certificates in Counselling, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and Leadership Development.

“A Nigerian entrepreneur at heart, I love start-up businesses and have been successful in grant and angle funding for several projects and ventures.
I’m a Mum of three girls and the most quiet moments in my life are when I’m in my happy place, on the back of a horse.”