ABOUT US
Creating Space for Fresh Ideas: SOYP Works with You to Achieve Success
‘We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.’ ~ Winston Churchill
At Seat of Your Pants Consultancy, we know firsthand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with rural life, thanks to our experiences of living and working in Victoria and South Australia.
Our team is passionate about offering practical and interactive services that really make a difference. Whether it’s clinical supervision, leadership coaching, mentoring, organisational support, tailored training, or grant writing, we’ve got you covered.
We believe in creating a space where everyone feels psychologically safe and upheld by ethical practices. Our approach encourages innovative thinking because we know that fresh ideas can lead to great solutions. We’re here to partner with you—growing together and tackling challenges side by side.
Listening is at the heart of what we do. We want to make sure you feel understood and equipped to thrive in your environment. Let’s work together to achieve your goals and make a positive impact in your community!
Hi, I’m Tim!
Officially? I’m a qualified social worker.
But what I really do as a clinical supervisor and leadership coach is ask curious questions, and help people just like you to reflect on current work practices—and life—to find solutions in a caring, nuanced and psychologically safe way.
When I was a kid, I struggled with an assignment on cows, and despite my mother pleading for me to find an easier subject, I stuck with cows, because they have four stomachs!
I was so fascinated by their multiple stomachs, and burned with curiosity that I used my gritty determination to finish that project.
That story still gets told in my family, but I like to think of it as being emblematic of my unique perspective and quirky determination.
I’m still as curious as I ever was.
In fact, my curious nature is at the core of all my work.
You see, I’ve got a knack for recognising the intricate micro and macro issues affecting individuals and organisations. And, by providing you with the space to reflect critically and consider ethical dilemmas, I help you to develop innovative and practical solutions tailored to your specific needs.
A supervision session with Tim brings hope and clarity, or the ability to sit with the messiness of working in the not-for-profit sector.
Frederikke Jensen, Advocacy Manager
About Tim
Tim Adam is a dedicated social worker with over 25 years of experience in the field, and he’s all about making a genuine connection with people. He’s worked in clinical supervision, coaching, and counselling, using techniques like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, and Solution-Focused approaches. Tim’s strong work ethic shines through in everything he does, and he’s got the experience to back it up—whether it’s managing teams or advocating for meaningful change.
Tim holds a Master of Narrative Practice and Community Development, a Master of Bioethics, and a Bachelor of Social Work, but what really matters to him is making a difference in the lives of everyday folks. He’s spent a lot of time working in rural settings, including at the Rural Health Academic Centre with the University of Melbourne and as a Health and Wellbeing Practitioner with the Rural Clinical School.
In addition to his clinical skills, Tim has a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment and loves sharing knowledge with others. He’s delivered workshops and strategic planning sessions that really hit home for his clients.
What makes Tim unique is his knack for getting to the heart of the matter. He believes in listening closely and asking the right questions to uncover the real challenges people face. This way, he can create solutions that truly resonate. His strengths lie in coaching, mentoring, and helping organisations grow.
When he’s not working, you’ll find Tim spending time with his three kids, enjoying life and learning new things. He’s also been involved in giving back to the community, having served as President of the National Association of Loss and Grief (Victoria) and Director of ARC Justice.
Fun Facts About Tim
It’s clear, Tim’s passion for life and learning is evident in everything he does, making him not just a consultant, but a trusted partner in helping you and your organisation achieve your goals.
If you’re looking for personalised support and services that fit your needs, reach out to Tim today at Seat of Your Pants Consultancy!
Hi, I’m Chris!
I work with CEOs and business owners who are done with decision fatigue and putting focus into reactivity—and ready to reclaim time to think and strategize to maximise what they do.
My approach is all about doing the ‘L’ things.
What does that mean?
Well, when I was younger, I had a pen pal. Her name was Kelly. We’d never met, but that didn’t stop us from writing letters, using the alphabet to share our worlds. One day, I received a heartfelt letter from Kelly about the letter ‘L’. What she wrote resonated with me and made me think about the important things in building relationships.
Kelly taught me to …
Laugh. Learn. Listen. Look, and love.
Now I live by the letter ‘L’ and remember that building connections with others is less about me, and more about the other person – less talking, more listening, and more laughter because sharing a laugh shortens the distance between people, builds trust, creates connections and allows space for vulnerability and strength.
CEO coaching helped me focus on what is important, and gave me strategies that reflected my strengths in leading my team.
CEO NFP 2024, Aboriginal Community Services
About Chris
Chris O'Connor is a dedicated leader and executive coach who embodies the spirit of Seat of Your Pants Consultancy. With a curious and fresh approach, Chris helps CEOs and organisations to lead with purpose, explore different perspectives, discover possibilities, and clarify core values.
With a degree in Developmental Education and a Post Graduate Diploma in Non-Profit/Public/Organisational Management, Chris navigates complex environments with ease and expertise.
Chris’s diverse background includes teaching second graders in an Indigenous community in Mexico, managing recreation services for individuals with disabilities, and serving as CEO at both Cystic Fibrosis SA, Windarring and Regional Employers Alcohol and Drug Initiatives. His extensive knowledge of the NDIS and commitment to collaboration make him a trusted partner for organisations seeking innovative solutions.
One of Chris’s proudest achievements includes his work with the Aboriginal Community Services, where he reviewed their remote aged care service. At the time, the aged care workers were fly-in-fly-out (FIFO), so he set up a support and training program that resulted in local workers learning how to do the work by shadowing the FIFO workers. This initiative not only provided local employment but also upskilled workers and increased engagement among aged participants.
Fun Facts About Chris
With Chris by your side, you’ll rise above reactivity and focus on what’s most important.
If you’re ready to see how Chris can help you and your organisation thrive, contact him today and discover the personalised support available at Seat of Your Pants Consultancy!