About
Who we are
Practical Leaders is based in West Yorkshire, with easy access to Leeds, London, and Manchester.
Our consulting and skills development approach is based on extensive experience, figuring out the skills that lead to excellent outcomes at every level.
Our technology credentials give us credibility with those with strong technical backgrounds stepping into leadership roles, and an appreciation for the specific challenges in making this transition.
Our purpose
“To drive lasting change through practical solutions and by building capability.”
What we do
We work with organisations where technical expertise isn’t translating into the results you need. The gap is rarely technical knowledge, it’s the practical application that turns expertise into impact.
We bridge that gap through consulting and skills development. We focus on what will make the biggest difference, deliver solutions that work, and develop your people so improvements endure.
Our values
We work to the highest standards and are selective about what we take on. We focus our expertise where it will make the biggest difference.
We prefer simple solutions to complex ones. We do what works, and are pragmatic, not idealistic. If something isn't working, we change it.
We measure success by the real difference we make to your business. Results matter more than activity.
We are always honest and straightforward. We commit to what we can achieve. If something won't work, we'll tell you. If we mess up, we'll own up and fix it.
We learn continuously and bring the latest thinking to every project. We build your team's capabilities so improvements endure.
Ivor Caldwell
Founder profile
I created Practical Leaders to help technology leaders deliver results while creating a vibrant technology culture in their teams.
I am a highly acclaimed, versatile, people focused technical leader with a passion for learning and helping others learn.
With over 20 years experience in leadership roles, I have held roles including engineering/architectural leadership, delivery leadership at scale, and senior people leadership/management.
I look forward to working with you!
Endorsements
“Ivor is an exceptional technology leader with a rare ability to connect across disciplines and a clear vision of what excellence looks like for a technology organisation.”
CTO
“Probably the smartest person I know! Incredibly solution-focused. Calm and level-headed approach at all times. Technically excellent and absolutely focused on our people.”
Director of People
“Ivor possesses an impressive breadth of knowledge and experience in engineering, product development, and technology. His contributions were invaluable as we navigated a complex transformation process. One of Ivor's standout qualities is his innate ability to listen — a skill that is often underestimated but crucial in our field.”
Senior Product Manager