Our Mission
Created by Claire and Sue, Elbow Room was founded to create space for talent to grow.
We support leaders at every stage of their journey, from young talent and emerging leaders to experienced and senior leaders. Through expert training and coaching, we build confidence, leadership skills and professional autonomy.
Drawing on experience across corporate and education sectors, we help individuals become thoughtful, effective leaders while supporting organisations to strengthen succession planning, improve retention and develop future leadership talent.
Sue James
With over 20 years' experience in education and leadership development, Sue specialises in training, coaching and mentoring individuals and teams to reach their potential. Having worked extensively with staff, emerging leaders and senior leadership teams, she is passionate about building confidence, professional autonomy and lasting personal growth.
Drawing on experience across education, elite sport, healthcare and finance, Sue combines evidence-based coaching with practical leadership expertise to help people develop the skills and mindset needed to thrive.
Away from Elbow Room, Sue runs Bemoreroo.
Claire Skaptason
With over 20 years' experience delivering training across a range of sectors, Claire specialises in leadership development, communication, emotional intelligence and team performance. She has worked with organisations of all sizes, helping individuals and teams build confidence, strengthen relationships and achieve their potential.
An accredited coach for over nine years, Claire is passionate about supporting leaders and their teams. Combining practical experience with coaching expertise, she helps people develop the self-awareness, confidence and skills needed to thrive in their careers and make a positive impact within their organisations.
Away from Elbow Room, Claire runs O&O Trainer Coach.
Why the 2 of Us?
Together, Sue's grounding in how people learn and Claire's experience of leadership in the corporate world mean our programmes are rooted in good learning practice and tested against workplace reality.
Testimonials
"I wanted to share how valuable I found Sue’s leadership and coaching course. As I’ve stepped into my new role, the strategies and approaches she introduced have genuinely helped me build confidence and think more effectively about how I lead and support others.
Sue delivered the course with a great balance of professionalism and humour, which made every session both engaging and enjoyable. Her ability to create a supportive environment encouraged open discussion and practical reflection, making the learning feel immediately relevant and applicable.
Overall, it was a fantastic experience and one that has had a real impact on my development. I’d highly recommend Sue’s course to anyone looking to grow in their leadership role."
"The Aspiring Leaders programme changed me as a person for the best more than I could ever imagine. To have someone help us reflect and be the best versions of ourselves in a work setting is just amazing." Client Experience Lead
"The Aspiring Leaders programme didn't just prepare us for leadership roles, it helped us recognise that leadership is already present in how we think, act, and influence every day. I came away from every session feeling more confident in my own way of working.” Project Lead
"This programme has vastly improved my confidence - not only in myself but in my approach to tricky conversations. I now have the tools to withdraw that initial emotional reaction and focus on the task at hand." Project Lead
Together We Create Room To Grow
We believe every organisation deserves supportive development tailored to its unique challenges and culture.
Connect with Claire & Sue to explore how Elbow Room can help your leaders and future leaders grow, lead with confidence, and drive positive organisational impact.