The Sheffield-based mentor, coach and director on launching Inicio Success – a new chapter in change leadership for businesses.
With a background spanning high-level corporate and government roles, Paula reflected on her journey leading to Inicio Success – a people-first consultancy designed to help organisations navigate complex change.
Let’s start with the name – Inicio Success. What’s the story behind it?
Inicio is Latin for “to inspire" and "new beginnings”. I didn’t want to call it Paula Carter Consulting – this is about building something bigger than just me. I wanted something that could grow, evolve and support others on their own journeys. It marks a new beginning for me, and I hope for the businesses I support too.
So what does Inicio Success actually do?
It’s all about delivering strategic change – but with people at the heart. I work with organisations of all shapes and sizes to help them implement change that lasts. That might mean cultural transformation, restructuring, process improvements or leadership transitions. I support businesses through many types of change: organisational changes, department changes, operational changes – that includes changes to 'ways of working' to become more efficient and/or effective. I can also help to lead change on improvements to customer experience.
And what’s your approach when working with a business?
Rather than parachuting in, delivering a change programme and disappearing, I work alongside teams to guide them through the process. I help leaders and staff understand the purpose of change and how to deliver it together. That way, the skills and confidence stay within the organisation. I believe change is more effective – and far more sustainable – when people feel genuinely involved.
It sounds like a delicate area – do you find some organisations are reluctant to seek help?
Definitely. There can be hesitation. Leaders might sense something needs to change but don’t always know how, or they think they should handle it internally. What I offer is clarity around the “how”. I bring time, structure and support – freeing up senior leaders to focus on the outcome while I guide the journey. Often, it’s just about having someone to help translate their ideas into action.
Do you specialise in a particular sector or size of business?
It’s really broad. I’ve worked with big corporates, small businesses, charities, NHS trusts and public sector bodies. I also have experience setting up new organisations, so I’m just as comfortable helping a start-up as I am managing department mergers, complex organisational restructures or business mergers and acquisitions.
Your background spans both private and public sectors – how has that influenced your current work?
It’s shaped everything. Working in the private sector taught me the importance of pace and delivery. The public sector showed me the value of governance and adaptability. I’ve learned to be agile – especially during my time working on Covid response programmes, where guidance changed by the hour. I led a programme to supply masks and testing kits to schools, colleges and universities – that taught me how to manage shifting priorities while still delivering under pressure.
That must have been intense. Any other moments that stand out?
The creation and setting up of Social Work England was a huge one. I left BT to become employee number one and had to recruit 165 people in seven months, then launch a regulatory body in nine. There were no systems – no payroll, no HR. We built everything from scratch. It was an enormous challenge but incredibly rewarding. That experience taught me how to build something with purpose and momentum – which is what I’m now applying to Inicio.
Going from leading major programmes to starting your own business must be a big change. How does it feel?
It is – but it also feels right. I’ve led many large programmes, so I’m used to working independently. The biggest difference now is the freedom – I can choose who I work with and which projects align with my values. Inicio is a new beginning for me, and I want it to be something that truly contributes to the region.
And how have people responded since you launched?
I’ve been completely blown away. It all started at a Sheffield Chamber leadership event in March. Rachel Swann simply turned to me and said, “Why don’t you start your own business?” That gave me the push I needed. Since then, people like Vickie Clarke Brown have introduced me to an incredible network. There's Mia Worrall, who's been with me from the beginning. Paula Barber and Dale Hampshire, who I first met during the setting up of Social Work England. I’ve met so many supportive people – Rachel Abbott, Sarah Ward, Councillor Jayne Dunn, Kelly Autey, Chloe Wallace, Michael Carter – and the team at Radisson Blu have helped make the launch event a reality. It’s made me realise just how generous and open the South Yorkshire business community is.
What are your ambitions for Inicio Success in the long run?
For me, success is about trust and impact. I want people to recognise Inicio as a business that helps organisations grow and evolve, but also one that gives back. I’m already working with several charities – including the Snowdrop Project – mentoring students at Sheffield College and supporting Better Learners, Better Workers with Sarah Ward. I want to grow the business in a way that reflects those values. I’d love to get to a stage where I can employ a team and keep building something meaningful – not just for clients, but for the community.
And finally – how does it feel to be stepping into this new chapter?
It feels brilliant. I’m letting it evolve naturally, one connection at a time. I’m focused on doing good work with good people. The future’s exciting – and I’m enjoying every moment.
You can speak to me on 079200 32207
