Chris Cracknell

Hi, I’m Chris Cracknell.

My previous chapters in life have given me fantastic opportunities to integrate, be part of and work with great teams.

I was a professional rugby player and coach for 20 years. My career took me to all corners of the world from playing for clubs like Bath, Exeter Chiefs in the premiership and Heineken cup and representing England at 7’s in world cups and Commonwealth games, to coaching with the likes of Fiji 7s to world titles and Olympic gold in Rio 2016. I have also had the privilege of developing innovative programs in the USA and China.

From my experience of coaching in different cultures (UK, China, Fiji, USA) it allows me to bring an abundance of diversity, knowledge, and different skills in the way I coach and mentor today.

Business strategy has underpinned some of the key foundations I developed with the women’s program in Fiji, growing the game from 150 registered players to over 1800. This has enabled the program to continue to grow, leading to the women’s Fiji side winning bronze in 2020 Tokyo.

In my working world today, I manage and run my family business (hairdressing!) Yes … I have gone from running around on a rugby pitch to working in the hair and beauty industry! I have a unique story that I bring to my coaching sessions, and I am passionate about sharing this with others as leadership, handling pressure, teamwork and commitment are common themes throughout it all.

If there is one thing that sports have taught me, it is tenacity. After ending my career (not on my terms), being able to move forward after the setback was vital in where I am today with my business coaching career. Failure is not the end; it is part of learning. Applying this in the business environment is fundamental.

Chris Cracknell.