Chris Blakeley

Leadership Coach & Spiritual Director

I founded Waverley Learning 20 years ago to provide a space for people in leadership positions or times of significant change to go deeper – to access what really matters in their lives and to be clear how they make a real difference in and through their organisations. This is about helping people to ground themselves in their true purpose and to connect deeply with others – ‘Space, Pace and Grace’.

My approach as both a coach and facilitator is founded on the wisdom I have accessed through many years as a lay monk as well as my professional development, charity work and wider interests in life. People often comment on the significant shifts in energy, purpose, peace and fulfillment that they access through this approach.

I am now also offering my services to support the ongoing programme of conversations for the Society of Leadership Fellows at St George’s House in Windsor Castle, which aims to provide a unique space for leaders in a variety of roles and contexts to share and nurture each other’s wisdom.

I am also a founder and Trustee of the Crossroads Retreats Charity which provides top quality personal retreats at low cost for people facing difficult transitions or decisions in their lives.

I am a lay Benedictine monk and provide mentoring for people on their spiritual path, again particularly at times of transition when proper discernment is crucial. I am a trained Spiritual Director and practice in the Oxford Diocese and London ‘Spirit’ networks.

I have also established the ‘Waverley Learning Community’ for like minded people who meet biannually on retreat to strengthen and deepen their professional, vocational and spiritual foundations.