Client: Amy Thrower, Director & Head of Outsource Finance, Albert Goodman
Background
Amy Thrower is a senior leader at Albert Goodman, responsible for driving the strategy and performance of the Outsource Finance department. While confident in her leadership abilities, Amy recognised there was always room to grow and develop further. She joined PDW Group’s Leadership Academy and coaching programme to enhance her skills and unlock new levels of effectiveness.
Challenges Before PDW
Before starting her PDW journey, Amy believed she was a strong and effective leader. However, she later realised there were areas where she could improve:
- Reactive Approach: “I wore my heart on my sleeve, which sometimes meant I reacted emotionally rather than proactively.”
- Limited Questioning: Amy often relied on making statements instead of asking questions. “I worried that asking questions might make me look like I didn’t know enough. This meant my conversations stayed surface-level, and I missed opportunities to understand my team or clients more deeply.”
- Self-Perception: “I didn’t see these as issues at the time—I thought everything was fine. The Academy opened my eyes to things I wasn’t aware of.”
How PDW Helped
Through a blend of Academy sessions, one-to-one coaching, and PDW’s behavioural tools, Amy experienced a significant shift in her leadership style.
1. Asking Better Questions & Listening
Amy learned to replace statements with open, exploratory questions—transforming her communication style.
“Previously, I would do most of the talking. Now, I ask the right questions and really listen. My conversations go deeper, and I understand people’s needs so much better.”
2. Flexing to Others’ Behavioural Styles
PDW’s behavioural framework gave Amy the tools to adapt her style to different personalities.
“It removes the emotion—when you understand someone’s behavioural style, it feels less personal and easier to understand others perspectives.”
3. Embracing Authentic Leadership
Amy discovered the value of leaning into her natural expressive style rather than suppressing it.
“At first, I felt self-conscious about being expressive, but PDW helped me see it as a strength. Now, I embrace it fully, whether presenting to the board or speaking at events.”
4. Coaching Impact
One coaching session was particularly pivotal.
“I went in convinced there was only one outcome for a situation. Through questioning, Lara helped me open my mind to other possibilities. The eventual outcome was completely different from what I planned—and far better.”
The Results
The changes Amy has made have had a profound impact:
Stronger Team Relationships
“PDD reviews are now a two-way conversation. My team feels heard, and I get far deeper insights.”
Improved Performance Management
“By asking questions and listening, I’ve resolved challenging situations positively—turning potential conflicts into constructive outcomes.”
Increased Confidence
“I recently presented to the strategic board and spoke at a large networking event—fully myself. The feedback was really positive.”
Cultural Ripple Effect
Amy has brought PDW’s principles back to her team, incorporating them into internal training and strategy sessions.
What Amy Values Most About PDW
“It’s not just the tools and techniques—it’s the people. The facilitators and support consultants are incredible. They make the learning experience engaging and impactful, and they care about your success.”
Who Should Consider PDW?
“I’d recommend PDW to any professional, not just leaders. These skills—self-awareness, adaptability, asking better questions—are game-changing for anyone.”
Key Outcomes at a Glance
- Better conversations: From statements to open questions and deep listening.
- Authenticity: Embracing her natural style as a strength.
- Leadership impact: Stronger team engagement, improved outcomes, and more confidence.
“Working with PDW has been life-changing for my leadership. It’s helped me unlock skills I didn’t even know I needed—and the results speak for themselves.”
— Amy Thrower, Director & Head of Outsource Finance, Albert Goodman
