Meet Kris

Kris Thorne Wagtail Associate Coach

I'm Kris Thorne, a leadership coach who helps leaders discover who they are, what they want, and how they can make the impact they want to make.

Many of the people I coach are stepping into bigger leadership roles or leading teams through complex organisational change. They're trusted for their expertise, but success at the next level demands something different. I specialise in helping technically strong operational leaders become more strategic, people-focused leaders who influence with confidence and build high-performing teams.

Together we'll strengthen your confidence, develop your strategic thinking and build the communication and leadership skills needed to lead with greater influence and impact. Whether you're stepping into your first leadership role, moving into senior leadership, managing managers or returning after maternity leave, my aim is simple: to help you become the leader you already have the potential to be.

Clients describe me as warm, supportive and genuinely invested in their success. I create a safe, non-judgemental space to think clearly, challenge assumptions and explore new possibilities, balancing thoughtful challenge with practical action so you leave each session with greater clarity, confidence and momentum.

Alongside one-to-one coaching, I also work with leadership teams to strengthen communication, collaboration and performance. Using the GC Index®, I help teams understand how each person is naturally energised to contribute, enabling them to play to their strengths and navigate change more effectively.

If you're ready to lead with more intention, influence and impact, I'd love to support you.

Book A Call Today With Kris

  • Director of IT Production

    “Kris helped me make the shift from technical expert to strategic leader.

    With her support, I shifted from being reactive to thinking more strategically, empowering my team to take greater ownership and building stronger relationships across the business.

    She created a safe space while also challenging my thinking, resulting in lasting changes to how I lead, how my team performs and how I influence across the organisation.

    I'd highly recommend Kris to any technical or operational manager ready to grow into a more strategic, people-focused leader."


  • Rina, Head of Business Resilience

    "When I returned from maternity leave, I was stepping into a new leadership role while managing a highly experienced team. Despite my experience, I struggled with imposter syndrome and questioned my ability to lead effectively.

    Since working with Kris I’ve seen significant growth in my confidence. My biggest breakthrough was overcoming imposter syndrome and overthinking. By shifting my mindset and taking action, I regained the sense of ownership and confidence I had lost during my transition back to work.

    I’m now more efficient in decision-making, which has freed up time that I used to spend second-guessing myself.

    I'd highly recommend Kris to anyone looking to elevate their leadership skills and overcome internal barriers, particularly when returning from maternity leave."

  • Brian, IT Testing Manger

    "I was struggling to communicate effectively with key stakeholders on my project who were challenging my approach.

    Kris worked with me to change my communication style and reconnect with my previous successful consulting style. Her coaching helped me structure my thoughts and be more intentional about what I was trying to achieve in those meetings, ensure that I got across what I wanted to and made the impact I wanted to make.

    And suddenly, things changed. My client is listening to me, asking my advice, and buying into my ideas. They trust that I’m on their side and will support them through the change to deliver a great result.
     
    The net result of all this has been a huge reduction in my stress levels. I don’t get rattled in meetings. I’m much more relaxed now and producing of the best work of my career.”