Drawing from my rich experience as a Strategy & Performance Manager, Sports Performance Practitioner across multiple world class programmes, and Workshop Tutor, combined with the in-depth knowledge gained through my doctoral studies, I have shaped a career blending practical strategic sports knowledge with academic insights. This journey has equipped me with a unique skillset to be an inspiring, effective and innovate leader, adept at guiding organisations and teams, and shaping strategies in high-level performance environments.
About me
My work experiences span multiple Commonwealth Games, Olympic and Paralympic cycles, a successful period in International Rugby Union, and now I am developing a broad range of skills in government. My journey from sports performance to working in a public delivery body has been both diverse and rewarding.
My higher education journey began at the University of Edinburgh in 2003, where I studied Mechanical Engineering. This foundation paved the way for a transition to Sport & Exercise Science at Edinburgh Napier University, where I graduated in 2009. Currently, I am in the final stages of a Professional Doctorate programme at the University of Limerick, focusing my research on decision-making tools in high-performance environments.
I previously held a Strength & Conditioning Coach professional accreditation with the United Kingdom Strength & Conditioning Association. I also contributed as a UKSCA Workshop Tutor delivering educational workshops. From 2018-2021, I was a PRINCE2 Project Manager, certified to practitioner level. Understanding and valuing the importance of continuous learning and the desire to push my boundaries in a novel setting, I have successfully navigated a career transition from high-performance sport to a role within the government in 2021. This move not only represents a significant shift in my professional landscape but also underscores my commitment to personal and professional growth in diverse environments.
My experience in grass-roots sports, pathway programmes, elite sport, and government, aligns with core responsibilities in developing and executing comprehensive performance strategies at a national and international level. My background has equipped me with the skills to deliver system level performance improvements through local level changes, such as player and staff development frameworks, coaching methodologies, and competition pathways.
My leadership skills, refined through 15 years of managing diverse teams in wildly different cultures, resonate with the need for strong leadership in any environment. I have a proven track record in fostering a positive and collaborative performance environment, essential for creating a winning climate and culture. My approach is always inclusive, open, and outward-focused, promoting a culture of continuous improvement, professionalism and excellence.
Collaboration is a cornerstone of my professional ethos. My experience working with varied stakeholders, including sports governing bodies, national sports institutes, educational institutions, as well as professional bodies, has strengthened my natural ability to forge partnerships that enhance performance ecosystems. This skill is crucial in leading relationships with stakeholders to understand their needs, to ensure effective communication, and to deliver quality services.
Performance monitoring and evaluation has been a key feature of all my professional roles. My background in engineering, combined with my expertise in sports science, and my role working within the Scottish tax system, positions me uniquely to implement robust systems for monitoring and evaluating performance. My proficiency in IT, especially in Excel and Power Bi, complements my ability to utilise data and analytics for continuous improvement.
Work Experience
Elite Sports Teams — Decision-Making Consultant
January 2024 – Present
Alongside three colleagues, I deliver innovative decision-making training to sports professionals and multi-disciplinary teams, including teams in the NBA, NFL, MLS and Professional Rugby.
Scottish Government, Edinburgh — Strategy, Planning & Performance Manager
November 2021 – Present
My key responsibilities are managing the delivery of the Corporate Plan; supporting team leaders to develop Corporate Strategies; supporting the design and management of the Business Plan; commissioning and preparing CEO and Board briefings; and, monitoring and reporting on key performance indicators from reporting to The Board and Senior Leadership Team.
JudoScotland, Edinburgh —Workshop Tutor
January 2021 – Present
I supported JudoScotland staff to develop UKCC level 1, 2, and 3 coach education content. I currently deliver coach education content to coaches.
Scottish Rugby, Edinburgh — Commonwealth Games Team Manager
October 2020 – February 2022
I led and managed the collective preparations for the Women’s Sevens team. I vacated this role before the tournament by mutual agreement with Scottish Rugby.
Scottish Rugby, Edinburgh — Head of Strength & Conditioning: National Women’s team
October 2018 – November 2021
I developed, led and managed the national sports science and medicine strategy for the Scotland Women’s XV and Sevens programmes; including the physical development frameworks and curriculum. I was a member of the Senior Management Team for the VX and Seven’s Performance Programmes.
Bromsgrove Independent School, Worchester — Head of Athletic Development
June 2018 – September 2018
I led the design and delivery of sports science support to school teams and worked with the Physical Education department to implement a bespoke athletic skills evaluation system.
British Judo, Walsall — Head of Strength & Conditioning: Olympic and Paralympic Programmes
March 2014 – April 2018
I designed, delivered, monitored and evaluated the national strength and conditioning, and performance science programme for Olympic and Paralympic athletes. I supported the development of the performance pathway curriculum, and led the development of the national physical performance curriculum. I was a member of the Senior Leadership Team for the Performance Programme.
SportScotland Institute of Sport, Stirling — Lead Strength & Conditioning Coach: Judo and Volleyball
September 2009 – March 2018
I designed, delivered, monitored and evaluated the national strength and conditioning, and performance science programme for Olympic and Paralympic athletes. Most notably, I led the physical preparations for several London 2012 Olympians and Paralympians.
Education
University of Limerick, Ireland — Professional Doctorate Candidate
September 2022 – Present
I am investigating decision-making and teamwork strategies in high-performance sports managers, coaches and practitioners.
University of Central Lancashire, England — Professional Doctorate Candidate
December 2019 – June 2021
I began my Professional Doctorate on leadership in sports and identified decision-making and teamwork strategies in high-performance sports managers, coaches and practitioners as my specific topic.
Edinburgh Napier University, Scotland— Bachelor’s (Hons)
September 2006 – June 2009
Sport & Exercise Science with Honours in Coaching
The University of Edinburgh, Scotland— Diploma of Further Education
September 2003 – June 2006
Mechanical Engineering with Management