Challenge: Moving from Good to Great
As Thomas Thornton progressed in his career at CHEP, he found himself presenting more frequently to senior executives, whether on the production floor, in conference rooms, or virtually.
While confident in his subject matter, presenting at a high level brought new pressures. His leadership team recognised his potential and encouraged him to further enhance his presentation skills.
While confident in his subject matter, presenting at a high level brought new pressures. His leadership team recognised his potential and encouraged him to further enhance his presentation skills.
"I always felt comfortable, but it was more nerve-wracking around very high-level leaders. After a big presentation, my VP said he wanted to sign me up for skills development. I took it as a sign he saw potential in me to do more of this."
– Thomas Thornton
Solution: A Tailored Process with Lasting Impact
Thomas partnered with Presenting Virtually and worked closely with coach Rob to refine his skills and confidence.
- A Supportive Coaching RelationshipBuilding trust quickly, Rob created a comfortable environment where Thomas could practise, reflect, and grow.
- Step-by-Step DevelopmentEach session identified opportunities for improvement, from delivery style to slide structure.
- Challenging but Practical QuestionsEncouraged deeper thinking, making Thomas aware of both content and presence.
- Confidence in PractisingLearning the value of rehearsal, Thomas embraced a habit he had previously avoided.
"Honestly, it’s been life-changing for me. This is one of the most fun and exciting things I’ve done in my career in a very long time."
– Thomas Thornton
– Thomas Thornton
Key Learnings: From Data Congestion to Storytelling
Through the process, Thomas gained powerful new insights:
✔ Simplifying Information – Breaking down “data congestion” into clear, digestible visual statements.
✔ The Power of Storytelling – Understanding how structure and flow shape audience engagement.
✔ Slide Transformation – Learning how to strip away unnecessary details and spotlight what matters most.
✔ Simplifying Information – Breaking down “data congestion” into clear, digestible visual statements.
✔ The Power of Storytelling – Understanding how structure and flow shape audience engagement.
✔ Slide Transformation – Learning how to strip away unnecessary details and spotlight what matters most.
"It’s funny looking back at my old slides. I thought they were good, but there was so much opportunity there. Rob helped me understand how to make them truly readable and impactful."
– Thomas Thornton
Results: Confidence, Clarity, and Influence
The outcome went far beyond presentation technique:
✔ Enhanced Executive Presence – Greater confidence presenting to senior leaders.
✔ Practical Skills to Share – Now able to critique and improve colleagues’ slides too.
✔ Career-Boosting Impact – A development experience Thomas describes as “life-changing.”
He now recommends Presenting Virtually to everyone because of the confidence and skills he gained to deliver and sell ideas effectively.
✔ Enhanced Executive Presence – Greater confidence presenting to senior leaders.
✔ Practical Skills to Share – Now able to critique and improve colleagues’ slides too.
✔ Career-Boosting Impact – A development experience Thomas describes as “life-changing.”
He now recommends Presenting Virtually to everyone because of the confidence and skills he gained to deliver and sell ideas effectively.
"I wish we could hire you full-time at CHEP. The value is so clear, we need this across the whole business. I’d absolutely recommend you to anyone."
– Thomas Thornton
Takeaway: Unlocking Leadership-Level Impact
By simplifying content, strengthening storytelling, and building confidence through rehearsal, Thomas transformed his executive presence. With expert coaching, he moved from “good” to “great” turning high-level presentations into opportunities to inspire, influence, and lead.