Introduction

Leaving a stable corporate job to build a coaching business can feel overwhelming. It’s a big shift—from structure, stability, and a clear career path to uncertainty and self-employment. But for many, it’s the most fulfilling path they’ll ever take.

In this article, I’ll share my personal journey of transitioning from a corporate career in supply chain management to becoming a business coach. I’ll also highlight the lessons I’ve learned along the way and what it really takes to build a successful coaching business.If you’re considering making the corporate to coaching transition, I hope my story provides insight and encouragement.

From Corporate Supply Chain Management to Coaching Business

I moved to Switzerland as a supply chain management expert in the construction industry. My first job seemed like a perfect match—my degree, my career, and my ambitions all aligned.

At the time, all I wanted was job security and the opportunity to stay in Europe to start a new chapter in my career. I had just finished my master’s degree in supply chain management and had a temporary job with a Swedish company.

I always dreamed of running my own business one day.

But entrepreneurship didn’t seem like an option at the time. I knew I needed corporate experience to understand business relationships and establish financial security.

Working for a premium brand in the construction machinery industry was an incredible learning experience. I worked in fast-paced logistics and production before transitioning to strategic sourcing. There, I learned everything I know today about business negotiations, leadership, and project management. Being part of a market leader taught me about high-performance standards and precision.

I became deeply immersed in my work and lost sight of my entrepreneurial dreams. I focused on being a “good employee” until I reached a point where I noticed I was constantly tired and unhappy. No amount of vacations or shopping helped. In 2013, I faced a major health problem that forced me to reflect on my life and career. I realized I wanted more autonomy, freedom, and authenticity—I needed a space to explore my creative ideas without restrictions.

A Health Crisis That Led to an Awakening

A year after I was promoted to my dream position, my body sent me a clear signal that something wasn’t right. A major health challenge led to complications that took three years to recover from.

The stress of constant travel, corporate pressure, and neglecting my well-being took a toll. Then, I lost my ability to sleep.I had spent years operating on autopilot, suppressing emotions, and equating my worth with achievement. It took hitting rock bottom to wake up.

This period of forced downtime led to deep reflection. I shared more about this on my podcast with Esther Burki.Being faced with the reality that my life could have ended so suddenly was shocking. I promised myself that if I recovered, I would live a life of fulfilment.

The Turning Point: Inner Work & Self-Discovery

Healing was a slow and painful process. I worked with therapists, coaches, and mentors to peel back layers of conditioning that had kept me stuck in a career that no longer aligned with who I truly was.

During this time, I reconnected with my love for art, design, and fashion. The idea of monetizing a passion I had always loved—something I was already knowledgeable about—was exciting.

I was also pursuing an MBA, which allowed me to refine my business ideas. The concept of launching a sustainable luxury brand inspired by my cultural background and love for art started taking shape.

I spent my last year in corporate balancing a demanding full-time job, studying for my MBA, and secretly working on my fashion side business. My husband’s patience and support during this time were invaluable.

Handing in my resignation letter was terrifying. I had spent months planning, ensuring I had a financial safety net. I knew there were no guarantees my business would succeed, but I also knew I could return to corporate if necessary.

Looking back, if I had the knowledge and leadership skills I have today, I might have done things differently—negotiated better terms, worked part-time, and planned more strategically. But I took the leap, and there’s no looking back.

From Consulting Business to Coaching Business

I started as a business consultant, helping fashion and creative businesses with e-commerce and digital marketing. Seeing the behind-the-scenes of many businesses was eye-opening.

At first, I was obsessed with strategy—helping business owners create growth plans. But I soon realized strategy wasn’t enough. Some clients had the money, the resources, and even the right strategy—yet they still weren’t growing.

That’s when I started studying psychology, motivation, and leadership. How could I help the humans behind these businesses grow?

I have talked about in this article in My Swiss Story Interview

After nearly a year of consulting, I realized I needed to learn more about coaching. I had taken a few courses, but I craved more. I finally signed up for an accredited coach training program, and it was one of the best decisions I ever made.

Learn more about my journey in this podcast interview with Elena Daccus. 

Finding My Niche in Coaching

Today, I help STEM professionals turned certified coaches attract premium clients and build coaching businesses while working full-time corporate jobs.I talk about this in detail in this podcast episode:

But I didn’t find this niche through market research—it found me. I coached people from all backgrounds—artists, designers, corporate professionals, and fellow coaches—before realizing that 90% of my clients had STEM backgrounds.

Sometimes, your niche isn’t something you pick—it’s something that emerges.

I have shared more details about my journey from Consultant/ trainer to business and mindset coach on “The Coaching Hub” podcast by the amazing Ruth Kudzi ,the founder of Optimus coach academy where I did my coach training.

Ruth is one of those inspirational women in my life and of course an amazing mentor of mine.

What I Wish I Knew Before Quitting the Corporate And Starting a Coaching Business

🔹 Coaching is a business, not just a skill. Many new coaches focus on certifications but forget they need clients and systems to sustain a business.
🔹 Your corporate experience is an asset. You don’t need to erase your past to be a coach. Your leadership, technical expertise, and unique background set you apart.
🔹 You need a clear system for client attraction. Relying on word-of-mouth isn’t enough. A structured approach is essential. (I teach this inside Corporate to Coach).
🔹 Mindset matters just as much as strategy. If you don’t believe in your value, pricing and marketing will feel impossible.

Ready to Make Your Corporate to Coaching Transition?

I have shared more details about my journey from Consultant/ trainer to business and mindset coach on “The Coaching Hub” podcast by the amazing Ruth Kudzi ,the founder of Optimus coach academy where I did my coach training.

Ruth is one of those inspirational women in my life and of course an amazing mentor of mine. I feel so honoured to have been on her podcast.

Ready to Reinvent Your Career & Start a Coaching Business?

If you’re a corporate professional considering coaching, know that your skills and experience are valuable assets. You don’t need to start over—you just need the right roadmap.

🚀 Join my free webinar to learn how to attract clients with confidence: Register Here
🎧 Listen to my podcast for insights on coaching & leadership in STEM fields: The Heart Of The Equation
💼 Apply to work with me 1:1: Book a Call

Connect with me on LinkedIn