Mel Cheeseman Founder of the

Cotswold Leadership Academy

Committed to You and Your Personal Growth

Unlocking Your Best with Tailored Support

With over 35 years of experience in business management and leadership across charities, not-for-profits, financial services, and manufacturing, my journey has been defined by bold decisions and a passion for growth. In my 30s, I took a life-changing leap by leaving my job to attend university for the first time. I earned a First Class Honours degree in Marketing and Events Management, followed by a Postgraduate Diploma in Education. Later, I completed an MSc in Marketing Management at Bath University, continually deepening my understanding of leadership and development throughout my studies.

This transformative journey inspired me to help others reach their full potential. As a trained Positive Psychology Practitioner, Mindfulness Practitioner, EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) Practitioner, and Leadership Coach, I founded the Cotswold Leadership Academy to empower individuals and organisations to unlock their capabilities and thrive.

My approach to working with people mirrors that of a cheerleader—positive, energetic, and deeply invested in your success. I foster an environment of support and motivation, where collaboration and encouragement help you move forward confidently. Like a cheerleader lifts their team, I aim to uplift my clients and guide them through both challenges and triumphs.

  • Positivity: I celebrate your wins, encourage growth, and foster an environment where you feel empowered to take bold steps.

  • Teamwork: Together, we build a dynamic, collaborative partnership where your progress is at the heart of everything we do.

  • Adaptability: I embrace change and help you navigate challenges with grace, offering constructive feedback and empowering growth.

    Through my Performance Acceleration Model, I offer tailored coaching, mentoring, and workshops focused on mindset, wellbeing, and impact. Whether you’re enhancing your leadership, boosting personal wellbeing, or achieving new career goals, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

    If you run a small business and need someone by your side to act as a sounding board, provide advice, support, and inspiration, I also offer a consultancy partnership. Together, we’ll tackle challenges, brainstorm solutions, and drive your business forward with confidence and clarity.

My Mission:

Empowering everyone to overcome life's challenges, inspiring personal growth in work and life, and crafting a better future together.

MY STORY

A Symphony of Passions

01

In the rhythm of life, my journey began with a love for dance, igniting a desire to inspire and guide others. This passion led me to assist younger classes as a dance teacher. Transitioning into the corporate world as a team manager at Nationwide Building Society, I found joy in developing my team and solving customer challenges. My managerial style prioritised people over processes, building a cohesive team through connection.

In my thirties, I delved into academia while supporting fellow students as a support worker. After graduating in Marketing with Events Management, I nurtured my passion for mentoring, helping students develop employability skills and connect with potential employers. Continuing my learning journey in my forties, I trained in teaching further education and pursued a master's in marketing management at the University of Bath.

02

During this time, I ran a freelance business supporting SMEs and attended a transformative summer school on Ethics and Sustainability in business at Utrecht University. It was there that I realised my heart craved work that made a positive impact on people, society, and the environment. This realisation led me to train as a Leadership Coach, envisioning a role where I could empower individuals to enhance all aspects of their lives and businesses.

Simultaneously, an opportunity in an environmental business aligned seamlessly with my leadership, marketing and social media expertise, and after 3 years I became the Managing Director. I pursued further professional development opportunities to align with my evolving passions. This included becoming a workplace wellbeing specialist, focusing on the emotional and mental elements crucial for fostering positive work environments including menopause support for women and mental first aid training with MHFA England.

03

Fueling my love for learning and development, I expanded my skills with courses as a positive psychology practitioner and a meditation and mindfulness teacher. I continue to explore the boundless horizons of personal and professional growth.

After leading teams for thirty years and a lifetime devoted to helping others grow, I've seen how putting people first can truly transform businesses. Sharing these experiences brings me immense joy, knowing that I'm empowering others to build not just stronger, but happier and healthier companies for the long haul.

01

In the rhythm of life, my journey began with a love for dance, igniting a desire to inspire and guide others. This passion led me to assist younger classes as a dance teacher. Transitioning into the corporate world as a team manager at Nationwide Building Society, I found joy in developing my team and solving customer challenges. My managerial style prioritised people over processes, building a cohesive team through connection.

In my thirties, I delved into academia while supporting fellow students as a support worker. After graduating in Marketing with Events Management, I nurtured my passion for mentoring, helping students develop employability skills and connect with potential employers. Continuing my learning journey in my forties, I trained in teaching further education and pursued a master's in marketing management at the University of Bath.

02

During this time, I ran a freelance business supporting SMEs and attended a transformative summer school on Ethics and Sustainability in business at Utrecht University. It was there that I realised my heart craved work that made a positive impact on people, society, and the environment. This realisation led me to train as a Leadership Coach, envisioning a role where I could empower individuals to enhance all aspects of their lives and businesses.

Simultaneously, an opportunity in an environmental business aligned seamlessly with my leadership, marketing and social media expertise, and after 3 years I became the Managing Director. I pursued further professional development opportunities to align with my evolving passions. This included becoming a workplace wellbeing specialist, focusing on the emotional and mental elements crucial for fostering positive work environments including menopause support for women and mental first aid training with MHFA England.

03

Fueling my love for learning and development, I expanded my skills with courses as a positive psychology practitioner and a meditation and mindfulness teacher. I continue to explore the boundless horizons of personal and professional growth.

After leading teams for thirty years and a lifetime devoted to helping others grow, I've seen how putting people first can truly transform businesses. Sharing these experiences brings me immense joy, knowing that I'm empowering others to build not just stronger, but happier and healthier companies for the long haul.

"I just want to personally thank you for everything you have done for me, thank you for all your understanding through some very tough times, and thank you for helping me unlock confidence in myself after being knocked down so many times by past employers."

Fleur