Welcome

Welcome to the latest edition of The Catalyst Newsletter! This month, we’re diving into the power of resilience, leadership adaptability, and bouncing back from challenges. Whether you’re navigating setbacks, looking to sharpen your leadership skills, or simply seeking inspiration, we’ve got insights to fuel your growth.

In this issue, we explore how great leaders turn obstacles into opportunities, break down the 5 C’s Model for thriving under pressure, and highlight a must-read book to keep you motivated. Plus, we feature an exclusive interview with Roxanne Beriain on the power of career breaks, why stepping away can sometimes be the key to moving forward.

Bouncing Back: Overcoming Setbacks & Embracing Growth

If there’s one certainty in leadership, it’s that setbacks are inevitable. Whether it’s a failed project, an unexpected challenge, or rejection, how we respond defines our success.

Resilient leaders don’t just endure obstacles—they learn from them, adapt, and come back stronger. Here’s how to bounce back with purpose:

Acknowledge the setback – Don’t dismiss it. Reflect on what went wrong, but don’t dwell on failure.

Reframe the narrative – Instead of seeing failure as an endpoint, see it as a lesson. What did it teach you?

Lean on your support system – Leadership can feel lonely, but no one succeeds alone. Seek mentorship, feedback, and collaboration.

Take action, not just reflection – What small step can you take today to move forward? Action rebuilds confidence.

A setback is only permanent if you let it be. The best leaders use obstacles as a launchpad for growth.

The Power of Career Breaks

An Interview with Roxanne Beriain

This month, we sat down with Roxanne Beriain, a seasoned contact centre leader with 20 years of experience in leadership roles across debt management and the insurance industry. Having successfully navigated complex team dynamics, major business transformations, and even a site closure, Roxanne made the bold decision to take a career break, a choice that is often misunderstood but has been incredibly rewarding for her.

Making the Decision to Take a Career Break

After nearly a decade in senior leadership, Roxanne had poured everything into her work—guiding teams through industry changes, a global pandemic, and intense restructuring. But despite loving her role and her team, the opportunity to pause and reset came at the perfect time.

“I hadn’t even taken my full maternity leave. I wanted a reset, and the career break gave me the opportunity to pause, evaluate, and ask myself—what does Roxanne want next?”

One of the greatest benefits of her career break was the opportunity to spend more time with her daughter, Olivia. Having dedicated so much of her career to leading teams and driving business impact, this break allowed her to be present in a way she hadn’t been able to before.

Are Career Breaks Valued by Employers?

Roxanne found that career breaks spark mixed reactions from employers and recruiters.

Positive curiosity – Some hiring managers expressed genuine interest in what she gained from her time away.

Skepticism and suspicion – Others seemed hesitant, assuming there was a hidden reason behind the break.

“For some, it seems risky. There’s a perception that if you step away from the workforce, you must have been forced out. But in reality, it was the right decision for me, and I had the financial security to ride out any storms.”

Biggest Concerns Before Taking the Break

Interestingly, financial security wasn’t Roxanne’s primary concern. Instead, she was focused on finding the right role—one that aligned with her skills, experience, and company culture.

“I could have taken any job, but I wanted to find the job. My goal wasn’t just to re-enter the workforce—it was to re-ignite my career in a place where I could make a real impact.”

She also challenges the traditional mindset of staying in a job out of fear:

“Is the real risk taking a break, or is it missing out on the perfect role because you're stuck in a 3-month notice period or not actively searching?”

Navigating the Uncertainty of Being Away from Work

To stay engaged and purposeful during her break, Roxanne focused on:

Volunteering – Giving back by supporting her daughter’s school.

Investing in self-development – Attending webinars, networking, and building her professional brand.

Strengthening resilience – Preparing mentally and emotionally for re-entering the workforce.

“I made sure I used this time wisely—learning, reflecting, and growing. That way, when I step back into my next role, I’ll be even stronger.”

Unexpected Challenges of a Career Break

One of Roxanne’s biggest challenges was the job search process itself.

“You need resilience in job hunting. Sometimes, you’ll never know why you weren’t shortlisted. And honestly, I’ve found that some recruiters talk more than they listen. How do they know I’m the right fit if they don’t hear what I’m saying?”

This lack of clear feedback is a major issue in the hiring process.

The Benefits of Taking a Career Break

For Roxanne, stepping away was an act of self-care.

“We don’t prioritise our own well-being enough. I had neglected mine. This break made me realise that when I go back, I need to set boundaries, prioritise well-being, and avoid burnout.”

How Companies Can Support Professionals Returning from a Career Break

Roxanne believes companies should:

Show curiosity and empathy – Recognize that career breaks are valid and valuable experiences.

Modernise their interview approach – Rigid, old-school recruitment methods don’t always reflect the true capabilities of candidates.

Provide constructive feedback – Candidates invest time and effort in the hiring process, and a simple ‘no’ without explanation doesn’t help anyone grow.

“Candidates deserve to be treated as individuals. If they’re not the right fit, they should know why. Their experience in the hiring process reflects your company’s brand.”

Would You Take a Career Break Again?

Roxanne’s answer: Absolutely.

“This experience has given me clarity. I know what motivates me, what engages me, and what I want next. I’m not looking for the perfect job—but I know what I bring to the table, and I’m excited to find the right place to make an impact.”

Advice for Anyone Considering a Career Break

?? Have a plan – Be clear on why you’re taking the break and what you want from it.

?? Think about finances – Plan ahead and consider reducing expenses where possible.

?? Seek outside support – Connect with others who’ve taken breaks and consider career coaching.

“Taking a career break can be daunting, but it can also be the best decision you’ll ever make. Just make sure it’s intentional, structured, and aligned with your long-term goals.”

Quick Insights: The 5 C’s Model – Thriving Through Leadership Challenges

Leadership isn’t just about managing people, it’s about navigating uncertainty, decision-making under pressure, and staying resilient. The 5 C’s Model provides a practical approach to thriving through leadership challenges:

Clarity – Focus on what truly matters. Identify priorities and eliminate distractions.

Confidence – Trust your abilities. Remind yourself of past successes and strengths.

Control – Focus on what you can change. Don’t waste energy on things beyond your influence.

Connection – Strong leaders build strong networks. Seek insights, mentorship, and peer support.

Commitment – Keep moving forward. Even in setbacks, stay committed to your long-term goals.

By applying these five principles, leaders develop resilience, sharpen their decision-making, and inspire their teams, even in challenging times.

What’s On Your Nightstand?

This month’s recommended read: “The Obstacle Is the Way” by Ryan Holiday

Why? This book explores how stoic philosophy can help us turn setbacks into opportunities. With real-world examples from history’s greatest leaders, it’s a must-read for anyone looking to reframe challenges and build a resilient mindset.

?? Have a book recommendation? Let us know what’s on your nightstand!

Closing Thoughts

Setbacks are not the end of the road, they’re part of the journey. Whether it’s bouncing back from failure, strengthening leadership skills, or embracing personal growth, each challenge is an opportunity to rise stronger.

If you have an inspiring leadership story to share, we’d love to feature you in our Interview Spotlight next month! Get in touch to be part of the conversation.

Thank you for being part of the Catalyst community. Keep leading with impact, and we’ll see you in the next edition!

?? Join the conversation – What’s been your biggest leadership lesson recently?

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