Building a Culture of Curiosity and Clarity

This is a case study about a recent project and it’s impact. The Client was a Senior Marketing Leader at *Blackpool’s Grand Theatre. And the focus of the work was recruitment strategy, leadership development, and team culture. This case study is an insight into building a culture of curiosity and clarity.

 

The Challenge

When this senior leader set out to double the size of his team within a restructured marketing and sales function, he was clear on one thing: this time, he wanted to do things differently. Rather than rush into recruitment, he wanted to create a team built on curiosity, imagination, and a shared sense of purpose.

He knew that skills and experience could be taught or developed — but curiosity? That needed to be part of the team’s DNA. The challenge was how to shape the recruitment process, the team dynamic, and his own leadership style to make that vision a reality.

The Approach

Working with Bev from The Clear Thinking Partnership, the client stepped into a coaching process designed to give him space to think clearly, intentionally, and with purpose. Through a series of one-to-one Thinking Sessions, Bev helped him:

  • Reflect deeply on the kind of culture he wanted to create

  • Navigate complexity with clarity and confidence

  • Ask better questions of himself, his candidates, and his team

  • Create the conditions for a recruitment experience that felt human, thoughtful, and values-led

  • Lead in a way that encouraged safety, openness, and shared learning

The recruitment process itself was carefully considered, every step was aligned to the vision, it engaged the team meaningfully, and evaluated candidates not just for experience, but for mindset, curiosity, and collaborative potential. 

The Outcomes

Personal Growth for the Leader

  • Developed a deeper, more intentional leadership style

  • Learned how to offer generative attention for others and listen without rushing to solve

  • Became more confident in decision-making during a time of organisational change

  • Described the experience as “one of the most profound personal and professional growth experiences of my life.”

Team-Level Impact

  • Built a team where curiosity is contagious;  a shared mindset rather than an individual trait

  • Created the foundations for a psychologically safe environment where people feel empowered to speak up, experiment, and challenge constructively

  • Involved team members in the recruitment process, leading to early connection and strong collaborative dynamics from day one

Organisational Outcomes

  • Every candidate in the recruitment process gave positive feedback; several called it the best interview experience of their careers

  • The team is now known for fresh thinking, adaptability, and mutual support

  • The culture of curiosity continues to grow, shaping the team’s work and energy

In the Client’s Words

“One of the most profound personal and professional growth experiences of my life. Bev gave me the tools and perspective to navigate complexity with clarity, to be more intentional in how I lead, listen, and create space for others to grow.”

“My biggest advice to CEOs? Give Bev a call. It’ll be the best and greatest thing your business ever did — for your people and your bottom line.”

Andrew Howard, Head of Audience, Marketing & Sales

 

A Summary of Tangible Outcomes

🩷Clarity, confidence, and stronger leadership for the client

💚A values-led, curious, and connected team culture

💙A recruitment process praised by every candidate

🩶A workplace where innovation and adaptability thrive

Want to strengthen your team, without losing yourself in the process?

Whether you’re developing a new team, deepening trust, or making tough leadership decisions, one thing makes all the difference: how you think.

At The Clear Thinking Partnership, we don’t just offer space to talk, we offer something more powerful.
We bring generative attention; the kind that sparks clarity, fuels ethical leadership, and helps you see the way forward, your way.

Together, we’ll focus on what really matters:

🩷 Building teams grounded in curiosity, trust, and shared purpose
💚 Making values-led decisions — even when the pressure’s on
💙 Strengthening communication and relationships across your organisation
🩶Leading with integrity, not just efficiency

If that sounds like the kind of leadership you’re ready to create, let’s talk.

👉 [Book a free 30-minute Discovery Call] (click here)

Or Get In Touch  — we’d love to hear what you’re working through.

*Blackpool’s Grand Theatre

A stunning Victorian venue at the heart of Blackpool’s cultural life. Designed by renowned theatre architect Frank Matcham and opened in 1894, it’s a Grade II* listed building celebrated for its intimate atmosphere, ornate interior, and historical significance. Often referred to as “the hidden gem of the North West,” the Grand combines rich heritage with a contemporary role as a hub for creativity, learning, and community connection.

It offers a diverse year-round programme of drama, dance, comedy, music, and family entertainment, drawing both local audiences and visitors from across the UK. As an independent charity, the theatre plays a vital civic role, partnering with schools, community groups, and artists to deliver outreach, education, and participation programmes that support wellbeing, learning, and cultural access.

Whether hosting national tours, championing local talent, or engaging underrepresented voices, Blackpool Grand Theatre continues to evolve as a dynamic space where tradition and innovation meet.

https://www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk/

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