ABout us
Rock Executive Development designs evidence-based leadership programmes and executive coaching that build authentic, resilient leaders and deliver measurable organisational impact.
ROCK supports senior leaders and organisations to build leadership capability that lasts. We design evidence-based programmes that go beyond insight to real integration – combining executive coaching, cohort learning and immersive experiences that strengthen decision-making, resilience and authentic leadership presence.
Led by Paul Shaw, ROCK draws on a trusted network of experienced coaches and specialist contributors. Our work is grounded in positive psychology, embodied practice and practical application, with a strong emphasis on psychological safety and measurable outcomes. Whether you are developing a C-suite team, strengthening succession, or investing in deeper transformation, we tailor each journey to your context and the challenges you are facing.
We work with leaders who want more than a polished leadership toolkit. They want clarity under pressure, better conversations, healthier team dynamics and sustainable performance. That is what we build – thoughtfully, rigorously and with respect for the complexity of modern leadership
MEET THE TEAM
Paul Shaw
Founder & Coach
With over a decade coaching at the top levels of financial services including NatWest Group across Personal, Commercial, Investment banking, Wealth management and functions, Paul brings deep sector strategic insight and real-world operating experience. His experience spans C-Suite development, CEO succession planning, and executive team coaching, making him a trusted partner for leaders navigating complex, high-stakes environments.
Michelle Byrne
Leadership Consultant, Coach, and Behavioral Change Specialist
Michelle Byrne is a Leadership Consultant, Coach, and Behavioral Change Specialist with 18 years of experience in the Financial Services sector. She holds anMSc in Coaching Psychology and Applied Positive Psychology and is a qualified Executive Coach and Team Coach. Michelle works with C-suite executives and Senior Management to effect positive behaviour change and performance improvement in a one to one or team coaching capacity. In 2022, she worked as part of a Behavioural Science & Applied Psychology Team, while also continuing her coaching practice and shortly after was promoted to Head of the Coaching Faculty in NatWest.
Emma Howard
Facilitator & Coach
Emma is a highly credible and dynamic facilitator and coach, drawing on over 30 years’ experience in senior global roles across Global Banking and Human Resources. She has consistently demonstrated her ability to cultivate strategic partnerships with business leaders, delivering targeted interventions that drive business performance.