Graham Downes

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT GRAHAM DOWNES

I help leaders and businesses lead through complexity — whether that’s operational uncertainty, career inflection points, or navigating the real tension between decarbonisation and commercial performance. As an executive coach and former global leader at Shell, I’ve led multi-billion dollar supply chains, developed market strategies for renewables and lubricants, and embedded organisational change from the manufacturing floor to the C-suite. My career spans energy, chemicals, and emerging clean-tech startups — always with a focus on people, purpose, and impact. I now coach senior leaders (VP, Director, GM) and startup founders across the energy, industrial, and sustainability sectors. My work helps individuals- Lead with clarity in uncertain, high-stakes environments - Refine their leadership narrative and decision-making approach - Align organisational strategy with net-zero ambitions - Navigate career transitions or reinvention without losing authenticity Whether it’s optimising a $350m value chain, managing a union-heavy site closure without disruption, or coaching a startup to refine their pitch for investment — I bring operational credibility, human-centred insight, and sharp strategic perspective.