VANGUARD ADVISORY - EXECUTIVE COACHING
Unlock Strategic Leadership with proven expertiseMy coaching draws on over two decades of national security, diplomatic, and defence leadership experience, including decision-making under pressure, crisis leadership, and managing strategic risk. Clients value not only structured coaching, but informed judgement, discretion, and an understanding of the realities leaders face when the cost of failure is reputation, political, or operational.
I deliver solutions-focused coaching to provide results. This is grounded in operational insight, strategic acumen, and real world leadership under pressure. I offer an advisory as well as a developmental relationship for executives who face real consequences for their decisions and who need a senior-level thinking partner. Breaking down issues into simple and distinct areas is often the outcome required for those with significant responsibility. I believe high-performance is best delivered when kept simple.
Based on years of operating in a space which demands trust and confidentiality, making sound calls when information is incomplete and the stakes are high, and supporting clear thinking and purposeful action without ego or unnecessary complexity, I have been at the forefront of mitigating the most serious threats to the UK and it’s partners.
My clients include government executives, corporate leaders in regulated industries, and senior decision-makers who face genuine consequences for their choices and value confidential, informed counsel.
I operate at senior level in environments where uncertainty, political sensitivity, and risk are daily realities. Clients are able to access perspective, judgement, and an ability to engage credibly with the pressures they face. That experience significantly shortens the time it takes to create value.
If you are interested in working with me please I offer a range of services or can discuss more bespoke options in an initial consultation. The services/packages available as well as how to contact me can be found by scrolling down.
Services and packages
I offer more than sessions — I provide judgment, confidentiality, and clarity under pressure
Ultimately you will decide what kind of programme and support you need as all packages are specifically tailored with bespoke pricing. Examples include;
1) Executive decision coaching and mentoring
1-1 coaching designed to strengthen judgment, composure and clarity by working through real-world challenges in structured setting to build frameworks. Initial 4-6 sessions.
2) Leadership under pressure
Focusing on leaders facing sustained operational or strategic stress and change. Initial 4-6 sessions.
3) Ethics and discretion in Leadership
For organisations and leaders committed to integrity and trust. Individual or group session.
Exploring how leaders maintain ethical clarity and confidentiality in complex environments. Ideal for senior teams, boards, or individuals managing sensitive information or public responsibilities. Group leadership team session.
4) Confidential Advisory Retainer - Premium service
For leaders who require ongoing, private counsel and access to a trusted thinking partner for sensitive decisions and complex leadership situations.
Designed for senior executives, board members or individuals in high-trust roles where privacy and sound judgement are essential.
Short notice access in an environment and way which is most impactful and convenient to you.
About me - Richard Ruffle
I’ve spent over two decades making decisions in uncertain, high-stakes environments, where the outcome is often serious. I now work with leaders who do the same, helping them make clear and confident decisions as well as acting as a peer sounding board. I balance deep experience with my training as a qualified Executive coach (Academy of Executive coaching).
As a national security leader, diplomat and senior risk owner, my work has consistently involved managing the most severe threats to the UK, almost always with domestic and international partners, and ensuring senior members of government and politicians are well-informed about the things that matter. I have significant experience of leading diverse, high performing teams, which are often spread across different continents, and making decisions which are often based on partial or ambiguous information. I work with you at the time and place that suits you best.
I work with senior civil servants, C-suite executives in regulated industries such as finance and defence, board members managing complex stakeholder environments, and entrepreneurs building businesses in sensitive or high-trust sectors. My clients share a common need: clarity in decision-making when the stakes are high and confidentiality essential.
I am passionate about the environment, and conservation, and enjoy spending time outdoors, particularly trail running on the South Downs. I enjoy a challenge and, in 2014, completed the Marathon De Sables - a 250km ultra marathon across the Sahara desert, often referred to as the toughest foot race in the world.
Client perspectives
“Working with Rich was a turning point in my leadership approach. The depth of knowledge, sharp insight, and ability to challenge my thinking, while still being incredibly supportive, made a real different to my career. Rich was instrumental in helping me clarify my goals, strengthen my decision-making, and position me to lead with greater confidence. I can now build better strategies but, more importantly for me, have a completely elevated perspective on my role”. Hannah - Head of project management - Leading global insurance group.
“I needed a peer and someone to test ideas with. I came away with not only this, but a renewed sense of purpose and clarity regarding the real questions I needed to ask myself. Having someone with Rich’s experience, but understated and supportive approach, has been fundamental to my recent promotion and improved career trajectory” James - Senior UK Civil Servant.
Contact
Ready to discuss how we might work together? Contact me for a confidential conversation about your specific leadership challenges. Initial consultations are obligation-free.
You can visit my LinkedIn page by clicking here