Name: David Leach
Job Title: Agile Coach
Tell us about yourself
Born in Bedfordshire surrounded by fields and parks, I did a degree in Computing and Information systems with a keen interest in analysis and building websites. I love football and boxing, for the later its more the training routines rather than the contact.
What did you do before joining Agility in Mind?
After 13 years man and boy with Argos, moving from working on the tills up to Operations Manager for argos.co.uk, I have since worked for lots of major brands in many different industries, thriving in collaborative environments helping teams succeed. Helping companies such as EasyJet, Reed.co.uk, Office Depot, Workforce Software, Halfords, Volkswagen Financial Services and RS Components to find ways to improve what they do and how they do it. I’ve been lucky enough to work in many different roles including operations, analysis, marketing, product, delivery and coaching.
Coffee or tea?
I love coffee, before the pandemic, this would involve searching out different beans from different countries in London but now it’s more likely to be either Aeropress or Nespresso Vertuo, probably a Columbian blend. Strictly no sugar, I’m sweet enough? and a dash of milk.
What’s a work-related accomplishment that you’re proud of?
Years ago at a Christmas event, a colleague who was a Junior QA spoke about his desire to become a Java Developer. Without having done anything related to this at school or college his options were limited. I argued the case to get him into my team and teach him on the job alongside studying for the relevant qualifications at college. His mindset and attitude was spot on so I’m proud to say he has gone on to have an excellent career in IT. I love the quote “We rise by lifting others”
What’s your favourite way to spend a day off?
Keeping busy, painting or tidying something. I’m not one to sit still unless it’s on a warm beach.
Best piece of advice for work?
Understanding, in the main, most people come to work to do something purposeful, have fun and learn something. So if something or someone is getting you down, just talk it through, there is often an easy solution. Don’t let things fester. Empathy and emotional Intelligence will be key skills for the future.
What’s the best joke you’ve ever heard?
I’ve twice told this joke when presenting to large audiences and both times I barely got a titter. I think that in itself humours me, here goes…
Have you heard, they have stopped selling Lucozade in Boots?
….because it runs out through the lace holes
What are your goals for 2021?
To keep learning, sharing and helping, fairly straightforward hopefully. The beauty of Agility in Mind is the variation in clients and context and the fact you have a supportive and highly experienced team behind you. The varying contexts means no two days are the same and there is always a new method or approach to try or to improve. Love it.
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