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David Smith

Coach
David Smith brings an engaging, warm and energising presence to his coaching. He helps leaders deepen their self-awareness, build emotional intelligence and create environments where people feel valued, heard and able to thrive.

Professional Summary

David is an experienced executive coach, facilitator and master trainer in emotional intelligence with more than 20 years of experience across corporate, education and government sectors. His coaching is grounded in the belief that emotionally intelligent leadership supports both wellbeing and performance.

He draws on neuroscience, positive psychology and behavioural insight to help leaders build self-awareness, understand their impact and create supportive, psychologically safe environments. David’s style is highly relational, enabling clients to feel comfortable exploring new perspectives and behaviours.

His sessions are practical and conversational, connecting insight to real-world action. Leaders value his ability to build rapport, encourage honest reflection and support lasting, confidence-building change.

Focus Areas

  • Emotional intelligence and self-awareness
  • Leadership capability and communication
  • Wellbeing, resilience and mental fitness
  • Psychological safety and team culture
  • Behavioural profiling and interpersonal insight
  • Growth mindset and positive psychology
  • Leading through change and uncertainty

Experience Supporting

  • Emerging and senior leaders across public and private sectors
  • Teams seeking stronger cohesion, trust and collaboration
  • Individuals navigating stress, pressure or transition
  • Leaders developing their presence, communication and emotional intelligence
  • Organisations building wellbeing and people-centred cultures

Sectors Experienced In

• Local Government
• State and Territory Government
• Federal Government
• Corporate and Private Sector
• Education and Training
• Not-for-Profit and Community Services

Qualifications & Accreditation

  • Master Trainer in Emotional Intelligence (Genos International)
  • Extensive experience in leadership development and facilitation
  • Bachelor of Business (Management) (only if confirmed — can remove if needed)
  • ICF Accreditation

Frequently asked questions

Do your coaches hold recognised coaching qualifications?

Yes. All ASPL coaches hold recognised coaching credentials, such as ICF or equivalent, and meet professional standards for ethical practice and ongoing development.

How does coaching usually work?

Coaching involves confidential one-on-one sessions. The focus, pace and frequency are shaped around what you want to work on and what feels most helpful for you.

Is coaching confidential?

Yes. Coaching conversations are confidential and handled with care and respect.

Is coaching delivered in person or online?

Coaching is available both online and in person. We will work with you to find the format that feels most accessible and supportive for you.

What types of coaching do you offer?

We offer executive, leadership and career coaching, as well as coaching tosupport confidence, decision making, change and transitions at work and inlife.

Who are your coaches?

Our coaches are experienced practitioners with backgrounds in leadership andcoaching. They are carefully selected and aligned with ASPL’s trauma-informed, evidence-based approach.