Steady leadership and governance support for NGOs
Ongoing coaching and strategic partnership for NGO leaders and boards.
How I support NGO leaders and boards
Kia ora, I’m Rochelle Stewart-Allen, The NGO Coach.
Leading in the nonprofit sector is demanding. The stakes are high, the resources are stretched, and the decisions can feel relentless.
I provide steady, relational support that helps leaders and boards think clearly, make confident decisions, and lead in ways that are values-led, culturally grounded, and sustainable over time.
What I Offer
Leadership and Governance Partnership
Rather than one-off workshops or ad-hoc sessions, my mahi centres on ongoing partnership.
This can include:
- Leadership coaching for CEOs, Chairs, and senior leaders
- Governance support to strengthen board roles, culture, and decision-making
- Strategic facilitation for boards and leadership teams
- Practical tools, templates, and decision support
Most clients work with me through a monthly retainer, giving them regular space to think, plan, and lead across the year — not just in moments of crisis.
Sustainable leadership, not burnout
Everything I offer is designed to support steady leadership without overextension.
Together, we focus on:
- Clear priorities and boundaries
- Strong governance foundations
- Decision-making that aligns with values and capacity
- Systems that support long-term impact
The result is leadership that feels calmer, clearer, and more sustainable — for both the organisation and the people leading it.
How We Will Work Together
1. We’ll start with a short alignment conversation
We talk through what’s happening for you and whether ongoing support would be useful.
2. Then we’ll confirm the right level of support
If it’s a good fit, we agree on a retainer that matches your needs and capacity.
3. Next, we’ll work together over time
You get consistent, trusted support — with space to reflect, decide, and move forward well.
Who I Work With
I partner most effectively with:
- NGO leaders ready to build steady momentum
- Boards seeking stronger governance and clarity
- Organisations navigating transition, growth, or pressure
My clients value trust, reflection, cultural grounding, and practical action.
What My Clients Experience
Clients often tell me they:
- Move from reactive to intentional leadership
- Feel less alone in complex leadership roles
- Gain clarity and confidence in decision-making
- Strengthen governance and leadership culture
Reflections from Leaders and Organisations
“Rochelle is a generous and caring leader who instinctively works in a collaborative and relational way.”
MICHELLE KITNEY, chief executive, Tūao Aotearoa / volunteering new zealand
“Rochelle is one of the sharpest thinkers in our sector.”
NIKKI HURST, FORMER CHIEF EXECUTIVE, NZ Council of christian social services
“Ngā mihi nui ki a koe, Rochelle …Your deep knowledge of the sector … has made a huge difference.”
TAYLOR CURD,
FORMER CO-CHAIR, Wellington Pride Festival / Tū Whakahīhī e Te Whanganui-ā-Tara
“Rochelle brings people from different backgrounds together … her style is warm and inclusive.”
SUE MCCABE,
CEO, Wellington community fund / te upoko o te ika
“Rochelle’s clear, actionable feedback has had a significant impact on my performance and confidence as a leader.”
TAIM LIGHTWOOD,
CHAIR, NZ NATIONAL REFUGEE YOUTH COUNCIL
“Rochelle is a careful listener, asks great questions, and has a deep well of knowledge of how organisations work (how they *should* work, as well as common pitfalls).”
THALIA KEHOE ROWDEN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, HUMAN RIGHTS MEASUREMENT INITIATIVE
Is This Right For You?
This is a fit if you’re looking for:
- Ongoing support, not one-off advice
- A trusted thinking partner who understands the sector
- Leadership and governance support that protects energy and wellbeing
If that sounds like you, the next step is a simple conversation.