Coach 1st Founder - Stuart Blake

Stuart Blake is the founder and driving force behind Coach 1st, a consultancy dedicated to making high-quality coaching accessible to a diverse audience. With over three decades of distinguished experience in the global staffing industry, Stuart's journey from corporate leadership to pioneering career coaching represents a powerful commitment to transforming lives through professional development.

Before establishing Coach 1st, Stuart built an impressive corporate career, serving as Managing Director at several prominent organisations including Harrison Willis, HW Group PLC, TMP Worldwide, and as CEO of Greatfleet PLC. 

His executive experience provided him with unparalleled insights into talent acquisition, leadership development, and organisational transformation—knowledge that now forms the foundation of his coaching methodology.

Coaching Excellence and Credentials

As an ICF-accredited coach specialising in career, executive, and life coaching, Stuart has developed a reputation for exceptional results. Since 2022, he has delivered transformative coaching to over 3,500 individuals across a remarkable spectrum of backgrounds—from entry-level professionals to C-suite executives, and from creative professionals to athletes. 

His coaching approach combines strategic career guidance with confidence building, helping clients discover their authentic strengths and potential.

Democratising Coaching Access

What truly distinguishes Stuart's vision for Coach 1st is his commitment to enhancing social mobility through accessible coaching services. He firmly believes that quality coaching shouldn't be limited to corporate executives or the privileged few. 

By making professional coaching available to broader audiences, Stuart works to break down barriers to career advancement and personal growth, creating pathways to success that might otherwise remain closed.

Measurable Impact and Results

Stuart's coaching effectiveness is reflected in impressive metrics: 94% of his clients achieve positive career outcomes and reporting high satisfaction with their coaching experience. 

These results speak to his personalised approach, which focuses not just on immediate career outcomes but on developing sustainable confidence and capabilities that serve clients throughout their professional journeys.

The Coach 1st Philosophy

Under Stuart's leadership, Coach 1st embodies a philosophy that puts clients first in everything they do. By combining proven coaching methodologies with authentic human connection, Stuart has created a supportive environment where individuals and organisations can navigate transitions, overcome challenges, and achieve their fullest potential.

Through Coach 1st, Stuart Blake continues to champion the transformative power of coaching, demonstrating how dedicated guidance can help people not only advance their careers but truly transform their lives.