A founder and activist with a vision to fuel a vibrant society

I believe that a vibrant society is possible, especially when people and organisations have the space to realise their potential. However, we tend to be so busy creating change in the world that it can be hard to pause. It can be even harder to see, with clarity, how we can be who we want to be. I help change-makers gain insight by weaving action-based learning, research programs, and thoughtful insights into practical training and considered support. 

It’s not just my belief that change is possible, it’s my experience too. I am, first and foremost, an activist. I have spent decades working to encourage a more socially just and resilient Scotland. In my early career as a volunteer, I founded Emmaus Glasgow, a radical alternative model for changing homelessness. During the pandemic, I led the innovations that challenge and support all businesses about making hybrid work well. This was recognised in 2023 by the Institute of Directors in being awarded Director of the Year for Innovation.

I use my experiences to empower, enable, and inspire leaders to think strategically while acting sustainably. 

This work is where practicality is humanised to encourage social change practitioners to use their whole selves in leadership. 

Qualifications and experience

• Diploma in Organisational Development for Leaders and Consultants

• Institute of Leadership and Management, qualifications level 3 and 4

• Certificate in Managing Complexity from the Bayswater Institute

• Advanced Certificate in Coaching Practice

• Certificate in 'Working with Task, Authority and Organisations” from the Tavistock Institute

My work has facilitated the transformation of many organisations and projects since 2005, yet it is always heartening to hear the quality indicators that come in via emails such as this one.

“I  just wanted to say thank you for the coaching session on Tuesday. I always feel uplifted and energised by our coaching sessions . I thought you'd like to know I woke up the following morning with lots of energy and ideas flying around and a key phrase in my head. Feel free to use as a strapline. ...put simply coaching with you feeds my soul.” Senior leader in the NHS.

Associates

I am Duncan Wallace Associates because I work closely with a number of organisational development colleagues when serving clients. The colleagues I work with each bring their own background and experience that adds value to what I can then bring and do. For me it is very much about bringing a team approach where as colleagues we share the work and enjoy the creativity of facilitating change and developing the capacity of the businesses we consult to.

This approach also means that I have have been able to lead a range of large scale change projects as well as continue to work with a number of clients on small scale support, accompanying their change.

It also means I am always learning from the best of others, as well as from the client organisations I serve.