My latest blog post - overcoming toxic leadership: real stories

13 Jul 2026

In this moment: Gary Hawkes
Over the last couple of weeks I was hearing stories in the Motaverse where good people were feeling oppressed, disrespected or worse bullied in their organisations. This is something I encountered in my career many years ago but I thought things had moved on. But my daughter in the last few years also experienced deliberate controlling behaviours from her superiors. With her permission (and dare I say fierce editing skills) I've shared a my first experience and also how many years later, I could help my daughter through an even worse experience.

If you're struggling right now, I hope this shows you that you're not on your own and you can get through these experiences with your head held high and find that role where you feel at peace. 🙏

 Overcoming Toxic Leadership: Real Stories
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Gary Hawkes
Head of Engineering
He/Him

Head of Engineering who came from QE. Admirer of all humans (with a special affinity for testers). I love to bring out the best in people and help them grow. I have a very tactical view of delivery and love working to find the sweet spot so that processes are balance between effort and value,

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