Open Space Coaching and Facilitation
About Michael Wood
Michael Wood has over 20 years' experience working with teams, groups, organisations and individuals across Australia to collaboratively create spirited spaces to talk and listen about what matters most.
He has a special interest in supporting people to make positive changes in the world through their work, community and family relationships whether or not they are in formal management or leadership roles.
His leadership experience, combined with coach training, helps him to empathise with the demands which clergy, educators, executives, managers and leaders face on a day to day basis. It also shapes his coaching in a way that people find practical and down to earth.
As well as coaching, Michael specialises in ‘dialogic’ facilitation processes, such as Appreciative Inquiry, Open Space Technology, Talking Circles, Restorative Justice Conferencing and Contemplative Retreats. He has facilitated over 300 Open Space and Talking Circle meetings; has attended two international conferences on Open Space Technology; and conducts Open Space Technology and Talking Circle action-learning workshops around Australia.
Michael currently works, part-time, as Community Chaplain at St Stephen's Anglican Church in Richmond (Melbourne), and part time as a Coach and Facilitator. Prior to this, Michael worked as a University Chaplain for 15 years and has led several Anglican parish communities. In an earlier life, Michael spent twelve years in the shipping and banking industries in sea-going and shore based Human Resources roles.
Michael is married and is father to two adult daughters. His first book, "Practicing Peace: Theology, Contemplation, and Action" was published in 2022 (shortlisted in the Australian Christian Book of the Year Awards, 2023).
Professional qualifications
Restorative Justice Conference Facilitator Training (2018, 2019, 2022)
Professional Certified Coach (PCC): International Coach Federation (current)
Professional Member: Resolution Institute (current)
Diploma of Professional Coaching: Coach School (2006)
Bachelor of Divinity: Murdoch University (1996)
Bachelor of Business (Human Resources): Victoria College (1989)
Diploma of Applied Science (Nautical): Australian Maritime College (1983)