HR & Strategic People Advisory for Growth

I had the benefit of working with Donna in my capacity as EGM Corporate Services at Shell Energy. Donna played a pivotal role in planning and implementing our leadership development initiatives, including a comprehensive program for senior and high-potential leaders as well as our women in leadership program. Her strategic mindset was instrumental in aligning organisational strategy with people strategy, fostering a high-performing culture that drove enhanced employee engagement and delivered measurable organisational results. Donna’s ability to bring out the best in people and align talent development with strategic objectives during a period of significant growth and transformation was invaluable to our success. She brought energy and creativity to the program of work, delivering outcomes aligned to our business objectives and in support of our leadership team.

Donna has an exceptional ability to create a space where you feel truly seen and supported. Her calm, grounded presence makes it easy to open up, and she gently challenges you to gain clarity and take meaningful action. Through our coaching conversations, I experienced a noticeable shift in how I approached my goals and challenges. Donna's style is both empowering and insightful, and I would strongly recommend her to anyone navigating a period of growth, transition or change.

As CEO of EMSA, I’ve had the pleasure of working with Donna for HR advisory and executive coaching for more than 5 years. Her depth of experience as a senior executive and chief people officer is obvious from day one. She brings both the technical expertise and the strategic perspective that make a real difference. She has helped us in both people strategy and redefining our policies and practices. Donna doesn’t just offer traditional HR advice. She cuts through the noise and helps you see the bigger picture, from commercial priorities to risk and long-term strategy. She’s been an invaluable thinking partner, holding me accountable while also helping me stay aligned with what matters most - our people and our purpose. I’d recommend Donna without hesitation to any executive or leadership team looking to build a high-performing, values-driven culture.

I had the privilege working with Donna and it was through that experience that I witnessed her exceptional ability to lead and coach with empathy, clarity, and purpose. Donna naturally creates a safe and supportive environment where you feel genuinely heard and encouraged, while also being thoughtfully challenged to grow. Her calm presence and insightful questions helped me navigate complex situations with greater clarity and confidence. Donna’s coaching style is both empowering and grounded, and I would highly recommend her to anyone seeking meaningful and lasting professional growth.

I had the pleasure of working with Donna from Peak Coaching and Advisory Group for HR consulting and advisory services. She really took the time to understand our specific needs and challenges, offering valuable insights and strategic advice that made a real difference. Donna's friendly and approachable style made communication easy, and she was always available to answer any questions. Thanks to her guidance and support, we've seen improvements in our HR processes. I would certainly recommend Donna for anyone looking for expert guidance in HR.

Donna is a great coach and adviser. I have already recommended her to others navigating a career change.

Donna Benjamin at Peak Coaching and Advisory is an exceptional strategic partner for leaders and organisations seeking to elevate their people, culture and performance. With over 25 years of senior executive and HR experience, Donna brings deep insight, practical wisdom and a genuinely human-centered approach to her coaching and advisory work. She doesn’t just provide technical guidance, she helps leaders build clarity, confidence and purpose, transform workplace culture and align people strategies with broader business goals.

Great working with Donna to get HR processes in place.