Fraser Murray is a leadership coach and founder of Niche Coaches who builds leaders by blending hard work, integrity and deep self-awareness. From his Scottish upbringing to leading global learning teams, Fraser’s story shows how mentorship, coaching and character — not just technical skill — create lasting impact. Humans of Fuzia is featuring him because his practical, values-driven approach equips women and men to step into leadership with composure, influence and purpose.
Q: What inspired you to start this journey?
A: I grew up in Scotland in a household where integrity and a strong work ethic were normal — my mother was a nurse and my father a senior police officer. Early jobs taught me discipline, and great mentors and managers showed me the power of coaching. After roles in retail, L&D and ultimately as Global Head of Training at Barclays, I realised my niche: helping others become better leaders through mentoring, coaching and practical development.
Q: What were the biggest challenges you faced, and how did you tackle them?
A: Early on I was the “why” child — always questioning. That drive was useful, but I had to learn influence: how to get genuine buy-in rather than just insisting on my idea. That meant cultivating relationships, listening, compassion and networking both inside and outside organisations. Formal coaching at key career steps — and ongoing investment in coaches — helped me develop those influencing skills and strategic thinking.
Q: What milestone are you most proud of?
A: Titles are less important to me than results for others. Being Global Head of Training was significant, but far more meaningful is seeing people I coached grow — for example, a woman I supported move from supervisor to HR director. Helping people fulfil potential is the real source of pride.
Q: Do you work alone or with a team?
A: I run an associate model. We have around 300 associates globally and currently work actively with about 30. That lets us match coaches to client needs — whether it’s career development, return-to-work coaching after maternity, or culturally specific support across regions like Japan, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Sri Lanka, the UK and the USA.
Q: What’s your perspective on women in leadership today?
A: It’s not about gender labels — strengths vary by person — but I have noticed many women show calming composure and principled leadership. The path to more women leaders isn’t quotas; it’s evidence. Show results and the business case follows. Stand up for values, speak with integrity, and let performance and character do the rest.
Q: What message do you have for future women leaders and entrepreneurs?
A: Go beneath the surface to understand who you are and what you truly want. Set short- and long-term goals, and develop character traits that matter: composure, resilience, integrity and influence. Speak up for your achievements — influence your managers gently and honestly — and be humble about mistakes. With the right character and consistent effort, you’ll create opportunities and inspire others.
Q: How do you define success, personally and professionally?
A: Success is simple: be the best version of yourself and help others do the same. If you can make a meaningful difference in even a few people’s lives — helping them grow or change direction — you’ve led a successful life. Live by good standards, act with integrity, and give freely to your network.
Closing thought
“Do the best you can, help others grow, and live by the right standards — that’s the measure of a life well led.” — Fraser Murray
Connect with Fraser Murray
http://www.nichecoaches.com/
Fraser The ‘Trusted Leader’ Coach | LinkedIn
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