David Chapman
Ilkley,West Yorkshire
Summary
Executive Summary
An accomplished and results-driven senior leader with over 30 years of experience leading people, operations and organisational performance across the custodial, military, security, commercial, education and coaching sectors. Recognised for delivering strategic leadership, developing high-performing teams and driving continuous improvement within complex, high-pressure environments where integrity, sound judgement and decisive leadership are essential.
A proven track record of leading multidisciplinary teams, managing high-risk operations, building successful businesses and designing innovative leadership, learning and development programmes that deliver measurable organisational and individual outcomes. Combines extensive operational leadership experience with expertise in coaching, mentoring, organisational development and behavioural change to build resilient teams, develop future leaders and create cultures of accountability, engagement and excellence.
Currently working within HMP Millsike, delivering accredited mentoring programmes that support rehabilitation, reduce reoffending and empower individuals to achieve meaningful and sustainable change. Brings a collaborative leadership style, exceptional communication skills and the ability to build trusted relationships with stakeholders at every level.
A strategic yet people-focused leader with a passion for developing others, improving organisational performance and leading positive change. Committed to creating environments where individuals and teams are empowered to exceed expectations, embrace continuous improvement and achieve lasting success.
Overview
1
1
Certification
32
32
years of professional experience
Work history
Peer Mentor Tutor
PeoplePlus - HMP Millsike
Full Sutton, East Riding of Yorkshire
2025.09 - Current
- Deliver accredited Level 2 Peer Mentoring qualifications within a secure custodial environment.
- Plan, prepare and facilitate engaging classroom-based learning sessions.
- Coach and mentor learners to improve confidence, communication, resilience and leadership capability.
- Support prisoners experiencing barriers to learning, adapting teaching approaches to meet individual learning needs.
- Encourage positive behavioural change through coaching, mentoring and reflective practice.
- Build professional relationships that motivate learners whilst maintaining clear professional boundaries.
- Work collaboratively with prison operational staff to ensure the safe and effective delivery of education.
- Maintain accurate learner records, documentation and awarding body compliance.
- Manage challenging behaviours professionally, maintaining a calm and positive learning environment.
- Promote rehabilitation by developing prisoners who can positively influence and support others.
Director & Coach
Peak Transformation Coaching Ltd
Ilkley, West Yorkshire
2024.09 - Current
- Drove business growth by developing strategic plans, optimising operations, and implementing high-impact marketing campaigns, increasing brand visibility.
- Empowered clients through transformational coaching, enhancing self-awareness, leadership skills, and mental well-being, leading to measurable performance improvements.
- Led group workshops and facilitated discussions, improving team communication and collaboration.
- Mentored entrepreneurs in launching and scaling successful businesses.
- Expanded organisational reach by networking at key industry events, andsecuring strategic partnerships and new client engagements.
Co Owner & Director
SD Property Group
2019.01 - 2024.09
- Co-founded and scaled a successful Property Management start-up, expanding operations across the UK and Spain.
- Optimised investors' property portfolios, increasing rental income through strategic growth initiatives.
- Implemented compliance measures, ensuring full adherence to industry standards and regulations.
- Led operational improvements, streamlining processes and enhancing efficiency.
- Developed and executed business strategies, achieving key short- and long-term growth targets.
- Directed a high-performing team, elevating customer service standards and client satisfaction.
Associate Real Estate Broker
Keller Williams Dubai
Dubai
2018.08 - 2020.01
- Specialised in Dubai’s Off-Plan Development Market, identifying high-value investment opportunities through in-depth market research.
- Facilitated seamless property transactions, leveraging strong negotiation skills to close high-value deals.
- Conducted market analysis for precise property valuation, optimizing investment potential for clients.
- Designed and implemented marketing strategies, increasing property exposure and buyer engagement.
- Licensed Dubai Realtor, trained under Keller Williams’ global standards, ensuring top-tier industry expertise.
- Mentored and trained new Keller Williams Realtors, enhancing team performance and market readiness.
- Built lasting client relationships through exceptional service, driving referrals and repeat business.
Co Owner & Director
The Stottie Company
Stockton-on-Tees, Teesside
2013.04 - 2018.10
- Co-founded an award-winning chain of coffee shop restaurants and a corporate catering company, expanding to 4 locations across Teesside within 5 years.
- Led a team of 50+ employees, fostering a positive work culture that boosted morale and productivity.
- Developed and executed strategic business plans, driving growth and aligning operations with market opportunities.
- Enhanced brand identity and customer engagement through targeted marketing and public relations strategies.
- Managed financial accounts, ensuring fiscal responsibility and long-term business stability.
- Implemented team-building initiatives, strengthening communication and collaboration across departments.
Commercial Director
Britannia Risk Group
Glasgow, Glasgow City
2011.09 - 2013.04
- Led and expanded the Armed Maritime Security Division, operating globally in high-risk areas.
- Trained and developed teams for armed anti-piracy roles, enhancing operational effectiveness.
- Promoted to Commercial Director to establish and grow the company’s Land Security Division.
- Directed sales operations and secured key contracts, driving revenue growth and market expansion.
- Developed pricing strategies, optimising profit margins and competitive positioning.
- Built a strong client network and grew a new department, aligning operations with business goals.
- Negotiated high-value contracts with major suppliers and clients, strengthening business partnerships.
Security Manager
Private UHNW Client
Henley on Thames, UK
2008.04 - 2011.09
- Led, coached, and developed a team of 28 Close Protection Officers, securing high-value residential estates and assets across the UK.
- Implemented advanced surveillance systems and emergency response plans, enhancing overall security.
- Managed nationwide security operations, ensuring optimal vigilance through routine audits and assessments.
- Strengthened crisis management readiness by conducting regular drills and staff training.
- Streamlined communication and operational efficiency through continuous staff development and updates.
- Collaborated with law enforcement for swift incident resolution and security enhancements.
- Improved security infrastructure by evaluating and upgrading protocols, reducing potential risks.
- Enhanced staff safety awareness by organising workshops and compliance training sessions.
Close Protection Operative
Various Corporate/Private & Royal Clients
International
2003.02 - 2008.04
- Trained in Close Protection and Surveillance, delivering high-level personal protection for VIP clients both in the UK and internationally.
- Provided armed and unarmed security services, ensuring client safety through comprehensive risk assessments and secure travel arrangements.
- Coached and developed new team members, enhancing overall team readiness and performance.
- Conducted thorough security checks and implemented robust search plans to secure client premises.
- Developed contingency plans, minimising risks and ensuring client safety during unforeseen circumstances.
- Maintained peak performance under pressure, managing stress effectively in high-risk situations.
- Adhered to strict ethical standards, ensuring professionalism and confidentiality at all times.
- Performed detailed background checks with exceptional research skills, securing client trust.
Transport Manager
Various
1999.12 - 2003.02
- Managed a team of 15 HGV ADR drivers, improving fleet efficiency through innovative scheduling and route planning.
- Led recruitment and interviewing processes, onboarding new drivers to ensure optimal team strength.
- Streamlined operational workflows, boosting productivity in transport management tasks.
- Facilitated smooth communication between drivers, dispatchers, and customers, ensuring seamless operations.
- Fostered a positive work culture, leading to improved employee morale and retention.
- Effectively handled emergencies, minimising downtime and service disruption.
- Organised weekly team meetings, enhancing staff communication and collaboration.
Soldier
HM Armed Forces (Army)
1994.05 - 1999.12
- Served with the 1st Battalion Prince of Wales's Own Regiment of Yorkshire, initially as a Rifleman and later as lead Mortar Man in the Mortar Platoon.
- Deployed to Northern Ireland three times, including two assignments within the Battalion’s Intelligence Cell.
- Joined 63 (Special Forces) Sigs (Reserve) in 2009, serving as an (Unbadged) Special Forces Soldier for 18 months before relocating.
- Maintained strict discipline, resulting in an organised and high-performing unit.
- Led team-building activities, boosting morale and fostering strong communication within the team.
- Conducted risk assessments and implemented procedures to mitigate potential threats.
- Assisted in intelligence gathering, contributing to informed decision-making.
- Ensured 100% accountability of all assigned equipment, maintaining operational readiness.
Education
GCSE -
Hessle High School
Hessle, East Riding of YorkshireSecurity Foundation Degree - Security
Buckinghamshire New University
High Wycombe, BuckinghamshireLeadership Development - Business Leadership
Teesside University
MiddlesbroughSkills
- Operational Leadership
- Strategic Planning
- Organisational Development
- Change Management
- Leadership Development
- Coaching & Mentoring
- Staff Wellbeing
- Security & Risk Management
- Incident Management
- Crisis Leadership
- Decision Making Under Pressure
Certification
- ICR Life, Business & NLP Coach
- ICR Accredited International Coach Practitioner
- The 3 Principles Coach
- Performance Coach
- Transformational Coach
- NLP Master Practitioner
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Peer Mentor Tutor
PeoplePlus - HMP Millsike
2025.09 - Current
Director & Coach
Peak Transformation Coaching Ltd
2024.09 - Current
Co Owner & Director
SD Property Group
2019.01 - 2024.09
Associate Real Estate Broker
Keller Williams Dubai
2018.08 - 2020.01
Co Owner & Director
The Stottie Company
2013.04 - 2018.10
Commercial Director
Britannia Risk Group
2011.09 - 2013.04
Security Manager
Private UHNW Client
2008.04 - 2011.09
Close Protection Operative
Various Corporate/Private & Royal Clients
2003.02 - 2008.04
Transport Manager
Various
1999.12 - 2003.02
Soldier
HM Armed Forces (Army)
1994.05 - 1999.12
GCSE -
Hessle High School
Security Foundation Degree - Security
Buckinghamshire New University
Leadership Development - Business Leadership
Teesside University