A conversation with leadership trainer, John Forrester
John is an experienced and proven trainer and consultant and has worked extensively with architects and their organisations since joining Colander just over 20 years ago. His expertise is in leadership and the behaviours of teams.
What has been your professional journey into learning and development?
I actually became a trainer by accident. My career started in the Royal Air Force, where I spent 17 years in operational roles around the world, including with the Royal Marines. Along the way, I built up a lot of leadership experience in high-pressure environments. Eventually, I was asked to train new RAF officers at Cranwell and that’s where things clicked. I realised how much I enjoyed helping people develop. Seeing individuals grow in confidence and capability was incredibly rewarding, and it set me on the path to a second career. Since leaving the RAF, I’ve worked across various sectors, and for the past 20 years with Colander, supporting leadership and management development in architecture and design practices.
What shapes your approach as a trainer?
Although my background is in the armed forces, the parallels with architecture are striking. Both involve talented, driven people working in complex, high-pressure environments where teamwork and leadership really matter. My approach is practical, down-to-earth and rooted in real experience. I focus on what actually works, helping people understand not just what to do, but why it works. A big part of my work is helping practices define and build the right culture. Without clear leadership, culture happens by accident, and it’s not always the one you want.
What courses and services do you deliver?
I lead Colander’s Leadership & People Management programme, which is designed to give people the tools and confidence to lead effectively. Alongside that, I run workshops on time management and efficiency, communication, appraisals and staff development, assertiveness and feedback, and the development of coaching and mentoring skills. Often, these challenges are all connected; strong leadership tends to unlock a lot of wider organisational issues. I also offer 1:1 coaching and consultancy in connection with organisational development.
What other interests and motivations do you have, away from work?
Away from work, I’m a pilot, instructor and safety officer at the Yorkshire Gliding Club. I fly frequently, including taking members of the public on air experience flights over the scenic and historic countryside of North Yorkshire from my club’s home airfield atop Sutton Bank. I also contribute to the club by delivering ground training sessions - especially induction and launch point training for new recruits.
Explore John's courses
Leadership and people management
Working and managing more efficiently
Communication and assertiveness skills