Meet the Team

Peta Searle, Influence for Change (i4C)

Peta Searle

Principal Consultant and Coach

Peta Searle is a very experienced Consultant and Coach. She has over thirty years of leadership experience in the fields of education, sports and organisations. Peta collaborates with leaders to improve their capacity to comprehend themselves, their influence on others, and the interconnectedness of these factors in achieving organisational objectives. Her dedication to leadership and coaching is firmly grounded in her vast history of sports coaching, through which she has developed the ability to assist individuals in overcoming obstacles and achieving their utmost potential.
Peta is a recipient of the Order of Australia Medal (OAM), in recognition of her contribution to the sports and leadership arena by boldly confronting traditional gender roles. As the pioneering female coach in the Australian Football League (AFL), Peta defied expectations and transformed perceptions of leadership. Recognised for her coaching excellence, she was enshrined in the Victorian Honour Roll of Women in 2017.

Peta employs a coaching and facilitation approach that effectively combines challenge and empathy, with a strong focus on respecting the values, beliefs, and strengths of her clients. Through building trust and providing support, she guides clients towards self-discovery and authenticity, resulting in positive shifts in attitudes and behaviours for sustained personal development and enhanced performance. Peta customises her sessions to address the unique needs of each individual, team and organisations aiming for outcomes that are not only goal-focused but also deeply transformative.

Peta has collaborated with Level 3 coaches within the Australian Football League (AFL), concentrating on enhancing their communication, decision-making, and conflict resolution capabilities. During her tenure at Essendon Football Club, she spearheaded the progression of AFLW coaches in strategic ideation, performance oversight and personal growth. Serving as the BHP Academy Coach, Peta mentored female individuals on effectively navigating gender dynamics, fostering assertiveness and developing empowerment strategies to bolster their ability to lead with confidence and authenticity. In addition, Peta has engaged with Victoria Police, overseeing cultural transformation initiatives and leadership development programs throughout the entire organisation, while also offering personalised coaching sessions.

Peta is also a seasoned and engaging Keynote Speaker. She shares valuable insights on leadership, coaching and mentoring reflecting her passion for inspiring excellence in leadership journeys. Peta advocates for gender diversity in leadership, utilising her expertise in coaching and leadership to effect cultural transformation by challenging established norms.

  • Bachelor of Education
  • Certificate IV Teaching and Assessment
  • Institute of Executive Coaching certified
  • Women in Leadership “Executive Ready Program” certificate
  • Level 3 AFL Coach
Influence 4 Change