Andrea Coomber is an inspiring senior leader in the world of criminal justice who has had a remarkable and varied career through many different aspects of the world of law. Andrea shares candid insights about her compelling career path, starting with her early aspirations of becoming prime minister and her experiences working in the field of human rights before going on to be CEO of law reform and human rights charity Justice and, currently, CEO of the world’s oldest prison charity, The Howard League. Andrea discusses the nature of her purpose-driven work, highlights the importance of getting abundant real-life experiences and recognises the struggle of work-life balance as a single parent. She also speaks about the value of asking for help, being open to seizing opportunities and embracing vulnerability as a key part of leadership. Andrea expresses her journey as myriad instances of learning, resilience and adaptability.

01:23 From Prime Minister Dreams to Legal Realities

02:34 The Unconventional Path to Law and Human Rights

07:29 A Deep Dive into Human Rights Work and Its Challenges

13:17 Navigating Career Changes and Global Human Rights Impact

16:49 Life Lessons and the Reality of Human Rights Careers

18:55 Adventures in Egypt and Transitioning Careers

22:13 Making a Mark in International Human Rights Law

25:29 Navigating Challenges with Difficult Bosses

26:14 The Power of Advocacy and Personal Boundaries

29:32 Transitioning to Justice: Advocating for Legal Reform

31:08 Personal Journeys and Professional Shifts

34:35 Embracing Leadership: Insights and Challenges

36:49 The Importance of Coaching and Vulnerability in Leadership

39:45 Advice for the Younger Self: Trust, Vulnerability, and Enjoying the Journey

Links to The Women’s Room – Legal Division:

• LinkedIn page https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-womens-room-legal-division/?viewAsMember=true

• YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@Womens-Room-Legal-Division

• Website https://www.ericahandling.com/the-womens-room-legal-division/

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Contact Me https://www.ericahandling.com/contact-me/

• any coaching questions you have or challenges that you’re facing
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• if you have any suggestions about an amazing woman working in around the law I should interview on the Podcast

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