Colette O'Sullivan, Adult Continuing Education

Colette believes we all have within us everything we need, and is particularly interested in new awareness’s that might occur to someone because of coaching. Colette’s values are based on mutual respect and a sense of integrity, in a confidential, non-judgmental environment. To observe a coachee moving forward and flourishing is hugely rewarding for Colette, and she finds it a privilege that a coachee trusts her and shares their story with her. From acorns to mighty oaks, coaching can be transformative, I’m here to enable you to unlock your potential and become the best version of yourself.

You can contact Colette directly by emailing colette.osullivan@ucc.ie 

By arranging to have a discussion with a UCC coach, there is no commitment to participate - you can just find out more about coaching and how it works.

Nóirín Deady, Admissions Office 

My coaching style: I practice solution-focused cognitive behavioural coaching. This approach identifies desired solutions and pathways to achieve positive results so that you can live the life you desire. 

My coaching philosophy: I believe in a growth mindset that fosters personal development and well-being, self-awareness and a love of learning. 

Areas of interest: To thrive in life, we must master the perennial challenges of balancing work, family, health, responsibilities and relationships. I focus on what matters most to you. 

You can contact Nóirín directly by emailing n.deady@ucc.ie  

By arranging to have a discussion with a UCC coach, there is no commitment to participate - you can just find out more about coaching and how it works.

Siobhán Laoide-Kemp, School of Clinical Therapies

I work in the School of Clinical Therapies in UCC. My goal is to contribute outside my discipline and give back to the wider UCC community through personal and management coaching. I use two philosophical approaches: person centred and solution focused coaching. Through these approaches I support staff and students to explore fresh personal insights and perspectives.

I work with the coachee to promote self-reflection and self-awareness as a foundation for renewed focus and energy leading to positive action. Through this rewarding process, each coachee has the opportunity to equip themselves to move forward to meet their own management and life challenges. 

You can contact Siobhán directly by emailing siobhan.laoidekemp@ucc.ie 

By arranging to have a discussion with a UCC coach, there is no commitment to participate - you can just find out more about coaching and how it works.

Gerard Mannix, Registrar’s Office

My passion as a coach focuses on practising a happy and healthy life through blending psychology and movement. I bring experience working within the private and public sectors as well as extensive background in sport. Life coaching leads to an increased awareness of strategies to achieve goals in the context of; careers, health & well-being, lifestyle aspects, personal growth, reduced stress, relationships, self-esteem, time management, work-life balance. My coaching interventions promote desire, intention, honest change and willingness to engage in the coaching process. 

Coaching is unlocking a person’s potential to maximize their own growth - John Whitmore 

You can contact Gerard directly by emailing g.mannix@ucc.ie 

By arranging to have a discussion with a UCC coach, there is no commitment to participate - you can just find out more about coaching and how it works.

Liz Ahern, AVMS, IT Services

I have worked in UCC for over 20 years and am currently based in Digital Services (IT Services). I am available to support you to become more effective and achieve your full potential. I offer you an opportunity to talk about you and your story in a safe, confidential space. I have experienced that there is great value in talking about things out loud with someone who is actively engaged and listening and asking powerful questions. The impact can be phenomenal and often lifechanging. I want to support and empower you via a person centered approach to self-determine your future goals.

You can contact Liz directly by emailing l.ahern@ucc.ie

By arranging to have a discussion with a UCC coach, there is no commitment to participate - you can just find out more about coaching and how it works.

Siobhán Consenheim, Finance Office

I have worked in administration in UCC since 2008, following my previous career in arts administration. As a coach, I have an abundance of empathy and a keen interest in bringing out the best in others. I seek to create a safe, confidential, reflective space. Through listening, questioning, and offering feedback, I help you to become more self-aware and to find your next best step, in line with your values. Personally, I value integrity and honesty, which is reflected in my coaching style- I say it as I see it, with sensitivity and a touch of humour!

You can contact Siobhán directly by emailing s.consenheim@ucc.ie 

By arranging to have a discussion with a UCC coach, there is no commitment to participate - you can just find out more about coaching and how it works. 

Lorraine Crossan, Centre for Gerontology & Rehabilitation, School of Medicine

I believe that we all have the power to lead lives where we can be true to ourselves. I have always been interested in people, and I bring this curiosity into helping clients find the best version of themselves that will help them live happy and fulfilled lives. When we encounter life’s inevitable stumbling blocks, we needn’t go to pieces!

I can help you in areas such as

• Enhancing self-awareness and personal resilience
• Changing behaviours that haven’t served you well
• Building on strengths to improve self-esteem and confidence
• Improving work/life balance

Contact me if you would like to get back on track, increase your motivation and take back your power.

You can contact Lorraine directly by emailing l.crossan@ucc.ie 

By arranging to have a discussion with a UCC coach, there is no commitment to participate - you can just find out more about coaching and how it works.

Maeve Kelsey, HRB Clinical Research Facility

I work with the Clinical Operations team in the Clinical Research Facility in UCC in patient focussed research and clinical trials. I am interested in working with UCC colleagues to help them identify their own personal goals and implement change and succeed. I find it very satisfying helping the people I coach as they become more aware of what they can achieve personally and professionally. It is a privilege to accompany others on their journey to achieving a greater sense of wellbeing and unlocking their true potential. I use a person-centred and solution focussed approach in my coaching. 

You can contact Maeve directly by emailing m.kelsey@ucc.ie 

By arranging to have a discussion with a UCC coach, there is no commitment to participate - you can just find out more about coaching and how it works.

Eimear Keohane, Alumni & Development, College of Medicine & Health

*Eimear is currently on Maternity Leave*

I am passionate about the power of coaching and would be delighted to work with you to support you in reaching your full potential. I use a person-centred, practical approach, built on trust and honesty. My style is supportive and challenging. My special areas of interest are career coaching, creating personal change and challenging beliefs that are holding you back.  Coaching is founded in principles of psychology, and uses research proven models in practice, but the real power and impact is found in having the space to reflect on your life, and how you want it to be.

You can contact Eimear directly by emailing eimear.keohane@ucc.ie 

By arranging to have a discussion with a UCC coach, there is no commitment to participate - you can just find out more about coaching and how it works.

Tommie McCarthy, School of Biochemistry & Cell Biology

Tommie McCarthy has worked in the School of Biochemistry at UCC for over 30 years. With a passion for helping people on their journey, Tommie has worked with staff and students across UCC to develop effective personal plans for going forward. In his coaching, Tommie draws on his extensive experience across academia, administration, leadership, and mentorship to help you identify new insights and approaches to overcome obstacles and to give direction to your journey. Tommie’s coaching is focused on helping you find solutions to moving forward with confidence. Tommie is a husband, father, grandfather, educator and scientist (but is still only 22!).

You can contact Tommie directly by emailing t.mccarthy@ucc.ie 

By arranging to have a discussion with a UCC coach, there is no commitment to participate - you can just find out more about coaching and how it works.

Michelle Nelson, Office of the Deputy President and Registrar

I'm excited to be part of the UCC Coaching Panel and to have the opportunity to help colleagues get the best out of work and life

You can contact Michelle directly by emailing m.nelson@ucc.ie 

By arranging to have a discussion with a UCC coach, there is no commitment to participate - you can just find out more about coaching and how it works.

Dearbhail O’Callaghan, College of Arts, Celtic Studies and Social Sciences

As a Work Placement Manager in the School of Society, Politics and Ethics, I work closely with undergraduate and postgraduate students on a one to one basis to help them to move along their career path. This work has demonstrated that I very much enjoy a collaborative journey. I am excited to work with colleagues to help them to identify and work towards their personal and/or work developmental goals. My coaching approach is person-centred and I believe building a strong coaching relationship over the sessions gives the coachee the space and trust in the process to explore and develop the right solutions for them.

You can contact Dearbhail directly by emailing dearbhail.ocallaghan@ucc.ie 

By arranging to have a discussion with a UCC coach, there is no commitment to participate - you can just find out more about coaching and how it works.

Patrick Scriven, Business Information Systems, Cork University Business School

I have applied to the UCC Coaching Panel as I want to assist my colleagues in reaching individual goals by using a positive, enthusiastic approach, emphasizing personal strengths

You can contact Patrick directly by emailing p.scriven@ucc.ie 

By arranging to have a discussion with a UCC coach, there is no commitment to participate - you can just find out more about coaching and how it works.

Dr Anne Gannon, HR Manager, Staff Wellbeing & Development 

Anne has a passion for identifying the ingredients which create success. This has inspired her to develop her coaching and mentoring skills and to enable valuable outcomes for coachees. Anne’s style is supportive and practical. Her areas of expertise include career coaching, leadership development, work relationships, overcoming barriers, managing through change, building confidence, and creating personal impact.

You can contact Anne directly by emailing agannon@ucc.ie  

By arranging to have a discussion with a UCC coach, there is no commitment to participate - you can just find out more about coaching and how it works.

Aileen Waterman, UCC Career Services

Aileen has worked in Work Placement, Career Services in UCC for the last 17 years with previous experience in management and recruitment consultancy. Her main passion is in seeing people succeed and making that move towards your full potential. Aileen draws on her experience in industry and UCC to explore, support and challenge (gently!) coachees to make that move or take that bold step.

My coaching approach is person-centered and solution focused drawing on tools and techniques grounded in research and academia. Through self-reflection and having that safe, confidential space, I will support you in being accountable to yourself for what you want from work and life.  

You can contact Aileen directly by emailing a.waterman@ucc.ie 

By arranging to have a discussion with a UCC coach, there is no commitment to participate - you can just find out more about coaching and how it works.

Noreen Moynihan, School of Pharmacy

I have been involved in both coaching and mentoring for a number of years and I like to take a strengths based approach. My aim is to work with you in overcoming barriers and obstacles especially if you are procrastinating.  We will team up to produce the change you are looking for.  This could relate to any aspect of your life e.g. career, study, day to day work concerns, wellbeing, or indeed taking a risk with something new that has been occupying your mind.  Our work together will be practically oriented and our focus will be on action and impact so you become more empowered and resilient in realising your goals and utilising your strengths. 

You can contact Noreen directly by emailing n.moynihan@ucc.ie

By arranging to have a discussion with a UCC coach, there is no commitment to participate - you can just find out more about coaching and how it works.

Aileen Finn, Office of Bursar/Chief Financial Officer

Aileen is an experienced, enthusiastic and approachable coach, engaging and empowering the coachee to realise their full potential and goals, with meaningful and valuable results. Aileen's style is committed, person orientated, supportive, empathic, future and forward focused.  Coaching within a safe, confidential and reflective space. Coaching is all about you, the coachee and creating the environment to explore the potential for growth, change and self development with practical solutions. Coaching areas include;  career coaching, change management, personal performance, executive coaching, overcoming blocks, building confidence, self awareness, etc.

You can contact Aileen directly by emailing A.Finn@ucc.ie 

By arranging to have a discussion with a UCC coach, there is no commitment to participate - you can just find out more about coaching and how it works.

Kathy Bradley, Skills Centre

I run the Skills Centre as part of OVPLT. My work enables me to work closely with both students and staff to develop pathways to success.  I work in liminal spaces, enabling transitions to take place. My work is primarily focused on facilitating the exploration of needs and desires of people, unpacking thought processes that allow the individual to truly examine their current situation to make real changes, enabling future growth and match to their perceived future. My coaching approach is person centric and collaborative and I really look forward to working with my colleagues across the university. I look forward to hearing from you.

You can contact Kathy directly by emailing Kathy.bradley@ucc.ie 

By arranging to have a discussion with a UCC coach, there is no commitment to participate - you can just find out more about coaching and how it works.

Seamus McEvoy, Student Life

I have worked as a Manager in UCC and the Private sector for over 30 years and am an Executive Coach and Careers Advisor with 20 plus years’ experience.

My aim as a Coach is to utilise my experiences and coaching skills to support you in the fulfilment of your career ambitions. I aim to do this by:

• Providing a supportive environment for your learning and growth.
• Creating an interaction that incorporates support and challenge by taking responsibility on my part to guide the process and accountability on your part to take action to achieve your desired results.
• Help you to create a career action plan that meets your needs and aspirations.

You can contact Seamus directly by emailing s.mcevoy@ucc.ie 

By arranging to have a discussion with a UCC coach, there is no commitment to participate - you can just find out more about coaching and how it works.

Mary Daly, Cork University Business School

I am a member of the BIS academic staff. Coaching provides the opportunity to talk about important things in a wider context and from a personal perspective while at the same time in a more grounded way that is possible when trying to go-it-alone. I believe coaching is the ultimate form of personal-development whereby the coach enables perception and change to evolve over time and in a person-centric manner. Maintaining balance in life is difficult. A coach is trained how to listen, to question to gain understanding and to provide non-judgemental feedback.

You can contact Mary directly by emailing mary.daly@ucc.ie 

By arranging to have a discussion with a UCC coach, there is no commitment to participate - you can just find out more about coaching and how it works.

All testimonials are from UCC staff members who have engaged in coaching with our panel

"I engaged in coaching sessions during the period of May – December 2021. What I liked about the sessions was the structure - it felt like a process was involved and that I was being listened to. Pathways were explored that I had not considered, i.e. thinking through ideas, looking at alternatives and possibilities in a practical, realistic way. I came away from the final session with a very positive outlook on what could be achieved in the future, which for me was the target and the reason why I attended in the first place"

“I am so delighted that I participated in coaching from the UCC coaching panel. I have benefited enormously from the sessions. My coach helped me to regain confidence and find a better work-life balance. I thoroughly enjoyed my sessions, they were practical and solutions-focused. I finished up with a tool kit to call upon when needed and a lot more personal insight. I would highly recommend coaching.” 

“I am so grateful for the shift in awareness that being coached has helped me to make, which has caused me to really look at myself and my assumptions and has helped me to define boundaries. I am feeling much more positive and more in charge of my own destiny, and am open to the possibilities that will present themselves. Thank you for your support, kindness and openness to me in our sessions, it is such a valuable space to hash things out with no judgement involved. I would like to thank my coach also for challenging me to think about things which helped me to look at my assumptions and be gentler on myself, and by extension others.” 

“I recently undertook a number of coaching sessions with my coach. I was aware I was in a slump in some areas of my life but was unable to identify exactly what needed attention, so could not move forward.  From the outset, my coach was very clear about their solutions-based coaching style, was patient, interested, fully engaged, very observant and quick to understand what I was trying to articulate.  By asking the right questions and suggesting regular tasks, I was empowered with the tools to self-reflect, gain clarity and identify areas requiring attention. This in turn helped me to identify solutions and implement changes which have changed my life in a very positive way.” 

“I wasn’t sure what to expect and would rarely open up to any other person but my coach created a safe, open space for me to share my worries and concerns without feeling inferior or like I was being judged.” 

“Even though my coach facilitated the coaching sessions, they did not shape the outcomes; with their gentle guidance, the solutions and realisations came from myself. I found the sessions both liberating and empowering and slowly but surely, I regained some confidence.” 

“My coach helped me in ways I never anticipated. I became stronger as a person and believed in myself and my abilities. They helped me to focus on the aspects that I can control and also helped me to find coping mechanisms with aspects that were beyond my control. These lessons will stay with me throughout all of my life– in both my personal life and my career.” 

"During my sessions, I found my coach to be warm and empathetic.  Their approach is person-centered and solution-focused.  After each session, I had a clear map of actions to take in order to achieve my goals." 

"Coaching made me think about certain situations that make me feel uncomfortable & which were causing me to hold myself back from progressing. This is something I never looked at myself in the past, and didn't realise the impact of it until he taught me how to deal with my feelings of anxiety. I'm much more confident as a result of my meetings with my Coach.” 

"I felt very relaxed and able to talk about anything that was on my mind. I've made some major lifestyle changes since the start of 2020. The support and encouragement from my coach was vital both in helping me to set achievable goals and in implementing the strategies needed to stay on track."

“Since engaging in coaching I feel that I am more reflective, less reactive and more confident in my professional interactions. I felt safe to explore without fear of judgement.” 

“I always felt I was given the opportunity to find solutions to my problems on my own. I wasn’t given advice to follow, I was allowed to come up with my own advice with only gentle guidance from my coach. This has been an important aspect of the coaching for me because it has helped me realise that I am capable of problem-solving on my own and that I should have a little more confidence in myself.”  

"Coaching has been one of the best things I've ever done for my career. My coach made me think creatively about what I can achieve presently and what I can try to work towards in the future. I'd recommend coaching to everyone off the back of my experience."

"I was feeling a bit overwhelmed by my PhD thesis work and this greatly impacted my motivation and ability to move forward. I signed up for UCC coaching and working with my coach over a few sessions, I was able to identify and overcome the blocks that were holding me back. Thanks to the coaching, I have my motivation back and I am now in a much better position to progress on my thesis as the daunting obstacles have melted away."

"Coaching has given me the tools to take ownership again of my life. It has helped me to focus on aspects which now allow me to live a happier & healthier life."

“I availed of the UCC Coaching service to maximise my effectiveness in the delivery of my role and to fully avail of the career development opportunities the role presented. Coaching provided a safe space away from the desk to constructively reflect on my practice and career goals; it delivered clarity, focus and renewed self-belief. My coach encouraged, challenged and guided me through effective self-development that enabled me to develop a plan forward and secure promotion.”

All of our internal coaching panel members hold professional membership with the Association for Coaching.