About Valerie MacLeod

I have always enjoyed using both sides of my brain - the logical, analytical side and the creative, holistic side. I love math and sciences AND photography and the performing arts.

This makes me unique as a coach and facilitator.

After seeing others promoted before me, I realized that harnessing both sides of my brain could help me move to higher levels of achievement and satisfaction. 

I love helping leaders who were schooled in left-brained disciplines like sciences, engineering and detailed thinking, like me, to apply the Art and Science of Leadership.  

I translate right-brained concepts like holistic Systems Thinking and being comfortable in ambiguity to managers who's background is similar to mine. 

I've learned to use many thinking approaches and can guide you to navigate leadership using all of your thinking skills.  

Here's my story:

Originally, I was going to be a high school mathematics teacher, which I see as a nice balance of using creativity to teach a logical topic. After graduating with a Bachelor of Mathematics I taught computer courses inside companies. 

My first career change was because I wanted to broaden my opportunities. A four-year degree in math is a narrow degree!

I switched from working in Information Technology to Human Resources after I got an MBA with a minor in HR.

Now that was a switch from predominately left-brained content and clients to using more right-brained skills like thinking holistically and considering people.

Although I loved the people and security of working in a large company, I was working long hours and felt my career wasn't progressing.

The last straw came when my husband announced at a party that he had waited in the car for 2 1/2 hours for me to leave work, again!

I knew I had to make some radical changes. 

I started following our Systems Thinking Approach® to take control of my career, build new skills and regain job satisfaction.

And I couldn't be happier with the results!

The Systems Thinking Approach® is a holistic (right-brained) way of thinking that I share with clients. 

I use an updated version of that process to help leaders set and achieve goals, augment their existing abilities and move forward in their careers.

Because of my technical background, I specialize in guiding leaders with STEM education (Science, Technology,  Engineering and Mathematics) to  re-energize their careers. 

According to the Dalton and Thompson "The Four Stages of Contribution Model" I am at a stage in my career where I want to contribute through others - coach, mentor and guide. 

I want to guide others to achieve their career goals. 

I help leaders realize that the skills that got them their current role are not the competencies they need to move up the career ladder. 

Leaders must augment their type of thinking with concepts from the other side of their brain.

If you are ready to take charge of your career, I can guide you!

Nadia Monaghan, Group Lead Regulatory & Government Affairs, Encana Corporation