NWBLT Career Insights with Sharon Amesu
Tell us a little bit about your current role?
I’m a Leadership Development Consultant, Executive Coach, and Professional Speaker specialising in courageous leadership and meaningful workplace communication. Through my organisation, SA Consulting, I help senior professionals and organisations navigate tough dialogues, foster inclusive cultures, and build resilient teams that thrive in complexity and change. I’m also the co-founder of She Leads for Legacy a social enterprise transforming the face of senior leadership to be more representative.
How did your career start? What one skill/attribute would you say has helped you most during your career?
My career began as a criminal barrister, where I spent 16 years advocating in courtrooms across the North of England. The most crucial attribute I developed was courageous communication—the ability to speak truth to power, to stand firmly yet respectfully, and to connect meaningfully with people from all walks of life. This skill continues to underpin everything I do today.
What are you most proud of so far in your career?
I am deeply proud of founding and leading She Leads for Legacy, an initiative dedicated to empowering Black women and their allies. Seeing participants rise, find their voices, gain promotions, and step boldly into leadership roles has been genuinely fulfilling and aligns profoundly with my life’s purpose.
As Chair of the NWBLT’s Diversity Drivers you help support the next generation of talented leaders in our region, what have you learnt from the role?
I’ve learnt that genuine change requires courageous leadership from everyone. It takes intentional effort to dismantle barriers and create equitable opportunities. Importantly, I’ve seen how collaboration across sectors amplifies impact, accelerates progress, and empowers the next generation to confidently lead inclusive futures.
Have you had a mentor who has helped you in your career?
I’ve had the benefit of having several mentors throughout my career. They have exemplified courage, resilience, and authenticity in leadership. Their ability to harness personal narratives to drive global impact profoundly shapes my own leadership approach.
You are a member of the NWBLT, a board member of the Hallé and of the GM Good Employment Charter, what has motivated you to join and support these organisations?
I firmly believe that impactful leadership must extend beyond business performance to social responsibility. Each of these organisations is committed to elevating standards, improving lives, and driving positive societal change. Contributing to this work is deeply aligned with my values and commitment to responsible leadership.
What does responsible business leadership mean to you?
Responsible business leadership means courageously leading with integrity, compassion, and a deep sense of accountability. It’s about recognising our power to shape not only profitable organisations but also thriving, inclusive, and equitable communities. It requires leaders who speak openly, act ethically, and consistently prioritise humanity alongside profitability.
What advice would you give to those thinking about their first career steps?
Be courageously curious. Step into opportunities even when they feel daunting—this is precisely where growth happens. Embrace failure as feedback, nurture authentic connections, and never underestimate the transformative power of clear, courageous communication. Your voice matters—use it boldly.