Mark Probyn

Professional background

I’ve spent 30 years in business, finance and leadership working across some of the most demanding and complex organisations in the world.

What I’ve come to realise is that throughout that career, even in roles like CFO, I was rarely the technical expert in the room. What I contributed was something different: an ability to listen, to ask the right questions, and to bring out the best in the people and teams around me. In many ways, that’s always been what I do. I just didn’t have a name for it then.

My own coaching journey began in 2001, when I was first coached. That relationship has lasted 25 years, and it gave me a profound and personal understanding of what a truly great coaching relationship can unlock.

What I’ve come to believe, above everything else, is that the quality of a relationship determines the quality of what’s possible within it. When there’s genuine openness, honesty and humility on both sides, remarkable things happen.

That belief shapes everything I do now.

Coaching approach

My philosophy is to collaborate with clients to create a safe and supportive space where individuals and teams can explore their development, tackling the questions they have, navigating challenges, and reaching the next level of performance.

Using active listening, space for reflection, and insightful questions, I help people uncover answers they may not be able to find on their own or within their usual support network. We all hold the answers to our challenges; sometimes we just need support to find the right questions.

While a good coach can support anyone, context matters. My extensive experience in senior corporate roles lets me relate to and work effectively with managers, executives and business specialists. Beyond individual coaching, I’m also passionate about team dynamics and organisational culture, helping businesses strengthen both.