Client story · Rainbow

Building a closer, more confident management team

A six-month programme for a fast-growing SME with managers spread across the UK.

ClientRainbow
FormatSix-month programme
People12 managers
The Rainbow management team at a workshop with Chloe Cooper

The context

Strong results, stretched people

Rainbow is a high-growth SME with teams across the UK. Performance was strong and the team "got on well", but fast growth and hybrid working had brought familiar problems:

  • symptoms of burnout and busywork
  • silos and gaps in communication
  • trust and collaboration struggles affecting team dynamics
  • low confidence and imposter syndrome holding managers back.

Rainbow wanted to invest in its people now, to sustain its success and future-proof the team. Together we designed a six-month programme for its middle managers.

What we did

Practical tools, real reflection

A bespoke six-month programme combining practical tools, deep self-reflection and time away together:

  • multi-day in-person offsites
  • virtual workshops
  • 360-degree feedback coaching
  • Gallup CliftonStrengths assessments.

The focus areas were:

  • Confidence: to take on challenges, push back, innovate and drive the business forward.
  • Strengths: helping each person name what they do best and use more of it.
  • Motivation: connecting individuals and teams to their own purpose and goals.
  • Trust: breaking down silos, opening up communication and strengthening collaboration.
  • Problem-solving together on the issues that mattered to the business.
Rainbow managers at a workshopRainbow managers around the table at an offsite

The results

Five out of five

12
managers on the programme
5/5
from every participant for usefulness, effectiveness and delivery

One month on, the impact was clear:

  • Stronger team dynamics: silos broke down and communication opened up.
  • Renewed confidence: managers felt able to celebrate their strengths and face challenges head-on.
  • Deeper connection: teams worked together more effectively, professionally and personally.
“The program has pushed our middle management to step up, highlighted key issues of awareness and alignment within our senior team, and built greater teamwork and trust across the business.”Managing Director, Rainbow

“What Chloe has helped us achieve can't be underestimated. This couldn't have been achieved by anyone internally. Chloe has understood very clearly what we needed and supported us on the journey with fresh perspectives and energy. We can already see a change in our business for the better and colleagues are referring to the sessions we have had regularly.”

Alys DawsonAlys DawsonDirector of Product, Creative & Marketing Services, Rainbow Designs

“Chloe's workshops have allowed me time to reflect on my achievements and successes in order to give me confidence to propel me forward.”

Gary HughesGary HughesHead of UK Sales, Rainbow

“We now have such a strong bond & are so looking forward to make things happen in the future together.”

Mandy McGoughMandy McGoughField Sales Manager, Rainbow

“It was very eye-opening and gave a real sense of motivation to develop not only professionally but personally.”

Hannah GrantManagement Accountant, Rainbow

“It definitely enhanced our team dynamics. It brought us closer together. We're able to really understand each other more.”

Zara HynesZara HynesBrand Manager, Rainbow

“I really liked the interaction, learning about my peers and being given the time to think about my strengths!”

Sian GreensladeCustomer Service Manager, Rainbow

“It fundamentally changed how we work together and communicate. It made us a lot closer as a team and helped me gain confidence in celebrating my abilities.”

Jo AdgerJo AdgerNational Account Manager, Rainbow

Want a management team that trusts each other?

If your managers are holding things together but running on empty, let’s talk about what a programme could look like for your team.

Book a call