Are you ready for Grade 9?

Answer 15 questions and I’ll send you a personalised report

This assessment will help you to measure and improve three things:

how confidently you’re already operating at Grade 9 level so you can stop second-guessing and start leading with intent.
your visibility and influence beyond your immediate role, the kind of leadership that gets noticed and trusted at the next grade.
your ability to act strategically and take ownership, even in uncertain, high-stakes, or politically sensitive situations.

Note on Grade Levels: Grade titles vary between institutions (some use Grade 8/9, others use Grade G/H, or UE08/UE09). What matters is the role level: if you're currently a senior manager or head of function looking to move into institutional head of department or deputy director roles, this assessment is designed for you.

Hi, I'm Fiona,

I’m a Career Progression and self-belief coach working exclusively with Higher Education professionals. I spent over a decade managing professional services teams in HE before moving into coaching, where I’ve now helped hundreds of mid-career professionals navigate the messy middle.

I created the Hidden Curriculum of PS Progression and the Progression Pathways tools because I know how vague and frustrating internal career development can feel and I believe you deserve better.

Think of me as your guide for the next step. I won’t hand you a cookie-cutter checklist. I’ll help you spot what’s really holding you back, build on what’s already working, and take courageous action that feels like you.

Go to my website

Here's what the research says: Proactive Career Orientation Predicts Success

According to recent findings grounded in Career Construction Theory:

People who take a proactive approach to their career (setting goals, managing development intentionally, and seeking out mentoring style support) experience higher career adaptability, which in turn predicts career satisfaction and success PMC+1.
Being intentional about your career trajectory equips you not only to handle change but to shape it with clarity and confidence.

​Are you ready for Grade 9?

Answer 15 questions and I’ll send you a personalised report

Hi, I'm Fiona,

Here's what the research says: Proactive Career Orientation Predicts Success

Are you ready for Grade 9?