Helping tech leaders uncover blind spots, build trust, and create high-performing teams
A trusted thought partner for newly promoted and established engineering managers to strengthen leadership, team dynamics, and psychological safety
Based in Liverpool, UK — coaching worldwide.

About Colin Hughes – Supporting Tech Managers
I’m Colin Hughes – a former Engineering Manager turned strategic thought partner & mentor for tech professionals who want to lead people, not just projects, with clarity, confidence and purpose.
Over 20 years in software (8 in leadership) I built high‑performing teams, delivered under pressure – and hit burnout hard. I know what it’s like to look capable on the outside yet feel lost underneath.
Today I support tech managers to lead better teams. The work blends NLP tools (ANLP 2025), Certified ScrumMaster practices (CSM 2025) and a Diploma in Life Coaching.
Credentials & Approach
- CMI Level 7 Strategic Management & Leadership (Edge Hill University - expected completion 2026)
- Certified ScrumMaster (Scrum Alliance 2025)
- ANLP‑registered NLP Practitioner (The Coaching Academy 2025)
- AC-Accredited Diploma in Life Coaching (The Coaching Academy 2025)
Coaching & Mentoring for Tech Managers
Leadership Coaching Programme (9 Sessions)
According to DDI’s Global Leadership Forecast 2025, only 35 % of first‑time managers feel ready to lead. When you’re juggling delivery, wellbeing and stakeholder pressure, it’s easy to feel like you’re winging it.
Research by FocusHR 2024 found that psychological safety — not technical skill — is the biggest predictor of success.
Our 9‑session leadership coaching and mentoring programme for tech managers helps you build that safety, communicate with clarity and lead from a grounded, confident place.
- Navigate difficult conversations and team dynamics
- Run 1‑to‑1s that actually move the needle
- Overcome imposter syndrome and self‑doubt
Sources: DDI 2025, FocusHR 2024
Supporting Tech Managers at Scale
Coaching Programme for Tech Managers
According to Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace 2024, 70 % of the variance in team engagement comes down to the manager. Yet most engineering leaders are promoted without formal leadership training — costing organisations dearly.
The financial impact is real: low‑engagement teams see up to 43 % higher turnover, and in the UK, replacing a single mid‑level developer can cost £30,000 + (Oxford Economics 2023).
Coaching Support for Tech Managers helps tech organisations protect that investment — coaching managers to create safer, higher‑performing teams.
- Reduce churn and engineer burnout
- Improve team engagement and trust
- Build promotable, self‑sufficient leaders
Sources: Gallup 2023, Oxford Economics 2023
Who I Help – Tech Leaders & First‑Time Engineering Managers
- First‑time engineering managers who want to lead people – not just projects – with clarity, confidence and resilience.
- Tech companies & startups investing early in leadership development to boost retention and performance.
- Mid‑career professionals in tech feeling unfulfilled and ready to realign their career with who they truly are.
- Burned‑out leaders who’ve lost their spark and need mindset support to regain focus, energy and purpose.
I work with both individuals and organisations – whether you're stepping into leadership or supporting those who are. Based in Liverpool, UK – coaching worldwide.
Coaching & Mentoring Services
Based in Liverpool UK — coaching worldwide.
🧭 Career Transformation Coaching & Mentoring
Feel stuck, burned out, or misaligned in your current path? This coaching helps you reconnect with your values, build confidence and move toward a more fulfilling direction—on your terms.
- Explore what's no longer working—and why
- Clarify your values and career vision
- Build confidence to take action
Best for: Mid‑career professionals or leaders in tech ready to realign their work with who they are.
🤝 Coaching for Tech Managers
Practical, grounded leadership coaching programme led by a Certified ScrumMaster (CSM). Build trust, handle team dynamics, and step into leadership without burning out.
- 1:1 Software Engineering Manager Training on real leadership challenges
- Build trust and psychological safety
- Navigate the developer‑to‑manager transition
Available for:
✔ Self‑funded engineering managers (B2C)
✔ Orgs developing first‑time leaders (B2B)
🧠 NLP, Mindset & Mindfulness Coaching
Deep mindset work and mindfulness for tech leaders to shift limiting beliefs, reduce imposter syndrome and boost emotional resilience. Backed by ANLP‑registered NLP practice and Life‑Coaching credentials.
- Let go of unhelpful thought patterns
- Rewire self‑talk and confidence
- Use NLP tools for real change
Available for:
✔ Individuals seeking mindset shifts (B2C)
✔ Leaders needing inner clarity and resilience (B2B)
Not sure which option fits best?
Book a Free Chemistry CallWhat Clients Say
Ready to Take the First Step?
Whether you're a tech professional at a crossroads or a company looking to support your leaders - this is the place to start.
Book Your Free Chemistry CallEmail: [email protected]
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/colin-hughes-coaching