Gwenda is a highly individual and creative specialist in Individual and Organisation Development and a seasoned HR professional (FCIPD) with cross sector experience at regional, national and international level. She combines entrepreneurial flair and imagination with a passion and aptitude for developing talent and strengthening capability. Gwenda works with Boards and Executives from a wide range of disciplines, with particular experience in Economic Development, Enterprise, Education, Culture and Tourism. A respected Executive Coach and an intelligent Facilitator, Gwenda is also highly skilled in relationship management and stakeholder engagement. She is especially gifted at bringing together ideas and people to inform, enrich and fulfil clients’ strategic aims. In addition to her corporate HR work, Gwenda has undertaken a number of branding/marketing communications projects including brand development and coffee table book publication. She is a Member of Glas Cymru (owners of Dwr Cymru/Welsh Water), an award winning business member of Arts & Business Cymru, and ‘Life Member’ of Chwarae Teg in recognition of her voluntary contribution to the organisation.
Endorsements: "Gwenda demonstrates that rare blend of sound business insight and the ability to ask tough questions, whilst keeping people 'onside' and building their confidence to deliver."
Gwyn Rogers: Former Director of Talent and Assessment, Penna PLC “I was impressed with Gwenda’s work for our Food and Drink Wales Industry Board... The arrangements were very good, both in terms of content and presentation. I welcomed the work she had done to familiarise with the action plan but also the history of the Industry Board and deliberations to date. The thorough preparations Gwenda had made were an important contributory success factor. Gwenda asked good questions, judged the session and those involved well, by balancing time for conversation and keeping us all focussed on the task and activity at hand. She helped get both Board members and WG officials to gel and create a sense of team.Gwenda’s follow-up work has also been extensive and comprehensive, capturing the work that needs to be taken forward.”
Andrew Slade: Acting Chair (Food and Drink Wales Industry Board) ‘I have known Gwenda Williams for some years now. Firstly in her role as a Trustee, and former Chair of Chwarae Teg, where she brought so much to the table, but more recently in my capacity as Director of Corporate Services for the Wales Co-operative Centre. Gwenda undertook a review of the organisation as part of our strategy for change / preparation for the future. Her assignment was to present us with options relating to Organisation Design as we sought to realign WCC with the needs of our clients and stakeholders. She equipped herself well. Gwenda’s approach was characteristic of my experience of working with her in the past, namely: focussed, flexible, intelligent, thorough and values-driven. It is always a pleasure to engage with Gwenda. She exudes calm, is not afraid to challenge our thinking, goes the extra mile and always approaches her work with the best interests of the client at heart. I have no hesitation in recommending her to any organisation looking for an ally with a fresh perspective during times of change, who has a positive energy and a reputation for delivering results – whilst keeping everyone on side.’ Judy Leering: Director of Corporate Services at the Wales Co-operative Centre
“Gwenda’s experience and understanding of the subtleties, complexities and nuances of the evolving economic, social and cultural fabric of a devolved nation is invaluable in terms of configuring the right team to work on this project. She blends regional, national and international experience with local knowledge, sensitivity and intelligence. She has worked extensively with public, private and voluntary sector organisations at both a strategic and operational level. Her network of contacts in relevant institutions, umbrella bodies and public service departments is an invaluable asset to the team. Gwenda’s approach is founded on sound research, effective relationship development, creativity and innovation. She recognises critical patterns and connections that exist between interwoven issues & inter-related organisations and works with them to optimum effect. Gwenda engages well at all levels and balances an ability to process, assimilate, organise and analyse information & data extremely quickly, with an instinct for the bigger picture’.
‘Through Ms Williams’ coaching and professional support not only have I grown, but the outcomes that I have led, shaped, influenced, driven and implemented in Gwent Police have: made it “fit for purpose”; receptive to change and continuous improvement; one of the most improved forces regarding outcomes. I am confident that the coaching and professional support provided by Ms Williams has provided the essential confidential support, learning and development required to enable me to deliver at my best. I have no hesitation in recommending Ms Williams for similar roles with individuals or teams within any public or private sector organisation’.