In this interview, we delve into the remarkable story of Rachel Shackleton, the Founder and General Director of Green Key Personal Development. Join us as Rachel shares her experiences, notable accomplishments, leadership style, and the values that have guided her along the way. Discover what sets Green Key Personal Development apart in the world of learning and development, how Rachel navigated a financial crisis in her career, and her insights into staying innovative in a rapidly evolving business landscape. Get ready to be inspired by Rachel’s journey as an entrepreneur and her commitment to making a significant impact in her industry.
Pursuing a Passion for Learning and Development
Rachel Shackleton’s journey in the world of learning and development began in an unexpected place – the hotel industry. At the age of 17, she embarked on her career in hospitality and, driven by her determination, worked her way up despite numerous obstacles. Her training with renowned establishments like Southern Sun Hotels and Hilton Park Lane laid the foundation for her future endeavors.
However, it was an opportunity as a training supervisor at Hilton UK that changed the course of her career. This temporary position, meant to bridge the absence of the Director of Training, ignited Rachel’s passion for training and development. She never looked back.
In 1996, after gaining valuable experience at the Grand Hotel Europe and Hotels Olympia in St. Petersburg, Russia, Rachel took a bold step and started her own company, Concept Training and Development Ltd. With unwavering dedication and a growing team, she built the business into a thriving enterprise. Their clients included global giants like Coca-Cola, ABN Amro Bank, Ford, and Sheraton Hotels, among others.
Rachel’s journey didn’t stop there. She sold Concept Training and Development Ltd in 2012 and returned to the UK to establish Green Key Personal Development and Green Key Health. Her career exemplifies the power of pursuing one’s passion and turning it into a successful entrepreneurial endeavor.
Overcoming Adversity
One of the defining moments in Rachel’s career was the financial crisis in Russia in 1998. This crisis posed a formidable challenge as the financial stability of many businesses, including hers, hung in the balance. The sudden devaluation of the Russian currency left Rachel with a fraction of the funds she had previously held.
While many around her were laying off employees and succumbing to the crisis, Rachel chose a different path. She made the courageous decision to retain her team, offering them the same level of pay irrespective of their positions. In return, her employees committed to coming into the office three days a week to support one another, develop new ideas, and reach out to clients, even though contracts had been shelved.
This act of solidarity and innovation paid off. Just as Rachel was contemplating returning to the UK, a call from British American Tobacco brought a lifeline. They were ready to proceed with a contract that had been signed just before the crisis hit. This pivotal moment marked the turning point, and Green Key Personal Development began to grow rapidly.
Rachel’s story is a testament to her resilience, innovative thinking, and unwavering commitment to her team. Her decision not only ensured the survival of her business during a challenging period but also strengthened the loyalty and cohesion within her team.
Staying Ahead of the Curve
In a fast-paced and competitive business environment, staying ahead of the curve is imperative. Rachel Shackleton understands the importance of innovation. She emphasizes the need to be open to change and to continuously evaluate and improve processes. Rachel believes that comfort breeds stagnation and that challenging the status quo is essential for growth.
To maintain an innovative edge, Rachel advocates for objective self-assessment, feedback from team members, colleagues, and clients, and a willingness to adapt and upgrade systems and processes. For her, innovation isn’t just a choice; it’s a necessity. It’s about keeping an eye on the bigger picture and refusing to settle for the status quo.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Rachel Shackleton offers valuable advice to aspiring entrepreneurs who aspire to make a significant impact in their industries. She encourages thinking beyond the box, exploring multiple solutions, and embracing curiosity. Sharing openly with your team, actively listening to their thoughts, and fostering a culture of questioning can lead to breakthroughs and new ideas.
Rachel emphasizes the importance of balancing financial metrics with curiosity and challenges. While financial markers are essential, they should serve as a foundation for continuous improvement and growth. Engaging with team members and customers, understanding their experiences and challenges, and taking action based on their feedback are key to building a loyal and successful company.
Key Strategies for Success
Rachel highlights two key strategies that have contributed significantly to her success as a trailblazer. First, her adaptability and resilience during the 1998 financial crisis in Russia were instrumental. By retaining her team and fostering a supportive environment, she not only weathered the storm but positioned her company for rapid growth when the market rebounded.
Second, Rachel emphasizes the importance of intuition in leadership. While data and logic are crucial, trusting one’s intuition is equally vital. Listening to her intuition has often laid the foundation for her success and continued growth. Leadership, she believes, requires the courage to balance both analytical thinking and intuition.
Shaping the Future
Rachel Shackleton identifies two significant trends shaping the learning and development industry. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift from predominantly face-to-face learning to online platforms. Companies adapted to remote work, and the demand for virtual learning solutions surged. This transformation has prompted the development of innovative online platforms to meet evolving needs.
Another trend Rachel identifies is the increasing focus on workplace well-being. The pandemic shed light on mental health and overall wellness in the workplace. Companies are now prioritizing employee well-being through education on topics such as mental health, menopause, and lifestyle choices. Rachel believes that organizations play a crucial role in promoting healthy living, and this trend will continue to shape the relationship between employers and employees.
Fostering a Culture of Innovation
Rachel Shackleton fosters a culture of creativity and innovation within her organization by promoting open discussion and a supportive environment. Colleagues and team members are encouraged to share ideas and suggestions, knowing they will be heard and acknowledged. Specific innovation sessions are organized to brainstorm solutions to particular challenges.
This open and collaborative approach empowers team members to contribute freely and ensures that innovative ideas are not only welcomed but also explored. Rachel understands that innovation thrives in an atmosphere of trust and open communication.
Influential Mentors and Influencers
Throughout her journey, Rachel has encountered several influential figures who shaped her entrepreneurial path. Her early mentor at London Hilton left an indelible mark with his wisdom and leadership in training. In Russia, the individual who initially invited her to conduct training sessions unwittingly set her on the entrepreneurial path. Finally, a medical doctor in India introduced Rachel to kinesiology, a pivotal moment that led her to explore alternative and complementary medicine.
These mentors and influencers each played a unique role in guiding Rachel’s journey, emphasizing the significance of learning from diverse sources and experiences.
A Proud Achievement
One of Rachel Shackleton’s most significant achievements is her involvement in developing a program in Russian schools that introduces young people to the travel and tourism industry. Partnering with American Express, Rachel and her team designed the curriculum, trained teachers, and facilitated work placements for students.
This initiative stands out as it not only nurtured a new generation of professionals but also taught life skills, intercultural understanding, and hospitality. It’s a testament to Rachel’s commitment to education and her belief in the power of learning to shape the future.
Industry Recognition
Green Key (UK) Ltd, under Rachel Shackleton’s leadership, recently won the prestigious award for best training provider in Oxfordshire. This recognition reflects the company’s dedication to excellence in learning and development.
In Russia, Concept Training and Development Ltd consistently ranked among the top providers in the market, further underscoring Rachel’s impact on the industry.
Rachel Shackleton’s journey is an inspiring testament to the power of passion, resilience, and innovation in entrepreneurship. Her commitment to education, adaptability in the face of adversity, and visionary leadership continue to shape her industry and inspire others to make a significant impact.
