Argus Fire Protection, a leader in the UK fire protection industry, has continued to evolve following its acquisition by Mitie. John Gormley, Director, shares how working with Growth Plans® and Liz Whitfield supported his transition into a senior leadership role and helped shape his development through One : One Coaching and Insights Discovery.
"Liz was already known to the business through her earlier work with the leadership team, but my direct engagement with her began as I stepped into a newly formed role on the statutory board. With no formal leadership training behind me, I saw coaching as a vital opportunity to clarify my position within the new structure and build the skills I’d need to lead effectively. Liz’s approach – combining structured One : One Coaching with group leadership sessions – was a natural fit.
My main objective was to understand what leadership meant in my new role and how I could grow into it, both personally and professionally. I’d progressed through the business based on technical excellence, but leadership is a different game. Liz helped me explore my position, define my goals, and understand the broader impact of my decisions – not just within my department, but across the company.
One of the stand out elements of the coaching was the use of Insights Discovery profiling. It gave me a better understanding of myself, how I process information, and how I communicate. I also learned how others perceive me and how to tailor my communication for better collaboration. That awareness was a game changer – not just in terms of managing others, but in becoming more approachable and creating stronger, more open working relationships.
The coaching also provided a safe, judgement-free space to think aloud. Liz’s questions weren’t prescriptive – they were probing, thoughtful, and designed to help me reflect and connect seemingly unrelated ideas into a cohesive vision. That reflective space helped me move from reactive thinking to long-term strategic planning. I now feel more confident, more self-aware, and better equipped to lead effectively in a growing organisation.
For anyone stepping up into a leadership role without prior formal training, I can’t recommend Liz highly enough. The external, objective perspective she brings – and the ability to challenge you in a constructive way – makes all the difference. This isn’t just about fixing problems; it’s about unlocking potential.
John Gormley Director Argus Fire Protection Ltd (a Mitie Company)
I now feel more confident, more self-aware, and better equipped to lead effectively in a growing organisation.”
Objectives
Define and grow into a newly created board level leadership role
Gain clarity and confidence in leading within a new management structure
Develop communication and strategic leadership skills
Challenges
Transitioning from a technical management role to senior leadership without prior formal training
Lack of structure and clarity around new responsibilities
Balancing personal growth with wider departmental influence
Outcome
Improved self-awareness and leadership presence through Insights Discovery
Greater clarity, strategic focus, and influence across the organisation
A safe space for reflection and decision-making that enhanced leadership confidence
Contact Liz Whitfield to see if she is right for you and you are right for Growth Plans®
