Sarah Stokes

Senior Design Leader | Executive Coach | Specialist in Human + AI Collaboration

Overview
I partner with ambitious leaders and teams to navigate the complex intersection of human potential, organisational systems, and technological evolution. With over 20 years of experience leading high-impact teams at Atlassian, Westpac, and Domain, I understand the realities of scaling in high-growth environments and driving transformation within highly regulated industries.

My coaching philosophy is structured and eclectic. I combine the rigour of a Master’s in Business Coaching with the practical intuition of a seasoned design executive. I help leaders to find genuine influence, strategic clarity, and sustainable performance.

Areas of Expertise
Design & Product Leadership; scaling high-performing, cross-functional teams.

Workshop facilitation: innovation, design thinking, vision and mission, team building.

Human + AI Integration: Helping leaders and organisations deliberately and ethically integrate AI as a collaborative tool that augments rather than replaces human capability.

Influencing & Impact: Building high-trust cultures, mastering feedback, and navigating complex power dynamics in large-scale organisations.

Career Transitions & Growth: Strategic coaching for senior leaders moving into "fractional" or portfolio careers.

Professional Background & Credentials
Master’s in Business Coaching (University of Wollongong)

Senior Design Leadership roles at Atlassian, Domain, and Westpac.

1,250+ hours of professional coaching experience across internal corporate leadership, private practice, and coaching circles.

International Speaker & Facilitator on empathy, self-awareness, and collaborative ways of working.