Mike Dent🇬🇧

About Mike Dent

Head of Software Development at Waterstons

I am a tech leader and a coach. My values are integrity, balance, and growth. I try to live a life by these values and a purpose to help people make a contribution the world as their best possible selves. Feel free to check out my LinkedIn and personal website to get to know a bit more about me. Whilst hands-on programming is no longer my area of expertise, I can help with growth, career progression, work conflict and any other questions related to working in the digital sector. I particularly like working with experienced software developers and new leaders, but happy to help where I can!

Expertise

Sessions with Mike Dent

• Mentoring (45 min): In these sessions I help anyone from new career starters to seasoned developers, QAs, architects and engineering managers. I prefer a coaching style in which I ask questions which will help you understand your own purpose and goals. Being an experienced engineering manager and head of department I also mentor in professional development, progression, technical understanding, and leadership. I can of course offer my insight into the world of work in software development if required.
• Leadership Coaching (50 min): I'm working towards my Professional Certified Coach (PCC) credential with the International Coaching Federation (ICF). To build the required coaching experience, I'm offering these sessions at a nominal rate. My purpose is to help people make a contribution to the world as their best possible selves. These coaching sessions are designed for leaders and managers who want to think more clearly about challenges such as difficult conversations, leadership impact, confidence, career direction, stakeholder management, or the kind of leader they want to be. Unlike mentoring, coaching is not about giving advice or sharing my solutions. It's a structured conversation that helps you uncover your own answers, challenge assumptions, and take action on what matters most. Alongside my coaching training and qualifications, I bring 15 years of leadership experience in technology, where I've spent much of my career helping individuals and teams grow.

What mentees say

“Mike is very professional and knowledgeable. His insights, professionalism, and willingness to share his experience made the session truly valuable. He has a great way of explaining ideas clearly and providing practical advice that you can actually apply to your career and professional growth.”

“I had a fantastic session with Mike. He was kind, highly competent, and gave me clear, actionable feedback to validate and refine my job search strategy for the UK market. On top of his strategic suggestions on positioning, he shared excellent reading materials. I left the call with renewed confidence. I highly recommend him!”

“He advised me to network and find my drive again”