Meet Your Programme Leader – Gareth Helm
Hi, I’m Gareth — and I’m the programme leader and founder of Sideminds. On paper, my career might look seamless: multiple C-suite roles in big , involvement in high-growth start-ups, an award-winning leadership book, and a successful transition into a portfolio career. But the reality, like many executive journeys, has been far from linear.
I’ve experienced career setbacks, unexpected exits, and difficult leadership dynamics. At times, I faced stagnation, self-doubt, and the uncomfortable ambiguity of “what next?”
What changed? I realised I had to take full ownership of my career. Traditional outplacement services, coaching, and headhunter advice didn’t go deep enough. So, I started using the same strategic, branding, and business development principles I applied in my executive roles — but this time, on myself. That shift helped me make key career moves and, over a decade, shape a fulfilling portfolio career on my terms.
Along the way, I’ve published some of what I’ve learned and supported executives through career transitions. Today, I lead six core development programmes — practical, proven, and personally designed — supported by a brilliant team of wider expert advisors for deeper analysis.
Unlike recruiters, coaches, or HR — Sideminds combines senior executive experience, marketing expertise, and practical frameworks to guide your career strategy. We offer tailored coaching, group programmes, and tools with high personal value.
Alongside Gareth as the programme lead, are technical advisors to support key topics more deeply
Dawn Spencer - Coach, Board Advisor & Trustee
Dawn is a former senior marketing and managing director. Now an executive coach and board advisor, she supports senior leaders in navigating complexity with clarity and confidence. Dawn is a certified Time to Think Facilitator and an active trustee, bringing strategic depth and human insight to every engagement.
Allan Lambert - NED, Coach & Ex-CEO
Allan brings decades of C-suite and boardroom experience to his roles as NED and executive coach. A former CEO with a deep understanding of business transformation, he now advises leaders — particularly in tourism and independent sectors — on strategy, governance, and personal leadership challenges.
Arezoo ‘Ozzy’ Kharazi - Psychotherapist, Hypnotherapist and Success Coach
Ozzy blends therapeutic depth with performance-focused coaching to help senior leaders unlock clarity, confidence, and emotional resilience. She specialises in guiding clients through periods of intense transition, self-discovery, and personal growth and works across both the private and public sector.
Sarah Ward - Career Coach, Director
Sarah is a Director and Career Coach with a background in HR and leadership development. She helps executives align their career moves with personal values and long-term aspirations, offering insight grounded in decades of organisational and coaching experience.
Laura Fox - LinkedIn Strategist, Trainer & Board Trustee
Laura specialises in helping senior professionals transform their LinkedIn presence into a powerful career and reputation asset. With deep expertise in both organic and paid strategies, she works with executives to clarify their message, sharpen their profile, and increase visibility with the right audience.
Gary Pine - Online tools and CRM Advisor
Gary is a CRM and automation expert who empowers executives to leverage digital platforms for relationship-building, outreach, and visibility. His practical, data-led tools support efficient networking and sharper business development — especially for those building portfolio careers.
Debbie Evans-Dudley - Tax Advisor
Debbie brings extensive experience in tax strategy, accounting, and financial oversight. She supports senior professionals and business owners in managing compliance, audits, business sales, and personal or corporate tax planning with confidence and clarity.
Warren Hadlow - FA Advisor
Warren provides tailored financial advice across investments, pensions, and inheritance tax planning. Working closely with his expert team, he conducts comprehensive personal financial audits and offers clear, practical guidance to help clients manage their finances today — while aligning long-term planning with their evolving career goals.
Alec Colson - Employment Law Advisor
Alec leads the employment law practice at Talor Walton. With 20+ years of legal expertise, he advises executives on employment contracts, settlement agreements, board-level disputes, and employment transitions — ensuring their rights and interests are protected throughout.
Simon Michaelides - C-suite executive, Mentor & Community Leader
Simon is a seasoned executive and portfolio leader. Alongside his commercial career, he supports professionals navigating career transitions. As a community leader, Simon creates safe, practical online spaces where senior executives between roles can connect, reflect, and reframe their next move.
Debs Jenkins - Publishing Strategist & Asset Coach
Debs helps senior consultants, coaches, and executives turn their knowledge into influence. Through publishing strategy and intellectual property coaching, she enables leaders to package their expertise into assets that build credibility, visibility, and commercial value.
