Lindsey Ward,
Director of Supplier Management
“Small mindset shifts, big cumulative effect.”
Following Lindsey’s attendance at the Personal Leadership Programme (PLP), learning quickly translated into action. Rather than remaining theoretical, the programme became a catalyst for meaningful change, both in how Lindsey leads and how her team works together.
One of the most visible shifts has been Lindsey’s willingness to step into “fierce conversations.” Long-standing issues that had previously gone unaddressed were tackled head-on, including an open and honest discussions where views she might once have held back were shared. These moments of discomfort became clear growth moments, setting a new tone of openness and authenticity.
The learning journey was not kept personal; it was deliberately shared. Lindsey introduced the team to the Orange Frog concept, encouraging a collective focus on “orange spots” of positivity, even during challenging periods. These small mind
set shifts help the team reframe difficulties and recognise progress, creating a more resilient and optimistic environment.
Strengths-based leadership also moved from insight to impact. By analysing strengths profiles for herself and her direct reports, Lindsey was able to identify how the team’s collective mix could be better leveraged. Sharing these insights will spark practical conversations about collaboration, role alignment, and how individuals could play to their strengths more intentionally.
Creating space for reflection and celebration became another priority. A December team day, designed around a creative, Christmas-themed session, gave the team time to reflect, present ideas, and celebrate achievements. The outputs were captured and shared more widely, strengthening team bonds and deepening understanding of how they can work together more effectively going forward.
Listening closely to team needs led to one of the most creative outcomes: the WHINGE Model. After the team expressed a desire for a safe, constructive space to air frustrations, Lindsey developed a tongue-in-cheek but structured approach to surface issues and land solutions. The result was seven clear actions with owners, alongside a team that felt heard, valued, and energised, even smiling through the process.
The impact has extended beyond the internal team. In a supplier relationship that felt “stuck” and overly robotic, Lindsey paused a routine QBR and openly voiced concerns. This led to a forthcoming workshop designed around the WWG principle, aiming to unlock unspoken tensions and shift the relationship from combative to collaborative.
Lindsey took a moment to truly reflect on her Leadership Compass — and that spark of creativity turned into something tangible. Over Christmas, with a little help from her son, she transformed her insights into a handcrafted resin coaster. Family and community shaped its creation, and now it sits on her desk as a daily reminder of the key lessons from her leadership journey.
Together, these actions bring the PLP to life day-to-day. They show how intentional leadership, grounded in self-awareness, courage, and creativity, can drive real change, building stronger teams, healthier conversations, and more effective relationships.
