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Patrick McWhinney Co-Founder and CEO

Patrick has spent two decades as a trusted partner to senior executives and leading organizations, including as the Special Advisor on Negotiations to the Chief Prosecutor at the International Criminal Court in The Hague.

Patrick trained at McGill and Harvard Universities and has been recognized as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, joining a group of exceptional individuals working to tackle global humanitarian issues.

Every problem has got a solution; you just need the time and the right approach to find it.

What has been the most exciting moment of your career?

The most exciting moments are usually the small ones – moments when our clients make breakthroughs and start seeing their potential completely differently. I’m there to help them refine that vision and turn it into reality.

Which aspect of your experience do you think clients find most useful?

The training we went through at Harvard taught us some fundamental ways of thinking which help us understand how people’s motivations lead them to make certain decisions. This means we can get them thinking more broadly when they get stuck. I’m also optimistic about everyone’s potential to solve challenges. Every problem has a solution; you just need the time and the right approach to find it.

For me, the most underrated leaders are the selfless ones serving quietly in the background who aren’t interested in the limelight.

Which quality do you think is underrated in a leader?

For me, the most underrated leaders are the selfless ones serving quietly in the background who aren’t interested in the limelight. They operate behind the scenes but their teams couldn’t exist or succeed without them.

When do you know you’ve got it right?

I know I’ve got it right in those rare and fleeting moments when everything in my life is in balance – when I am best serving my clients, and finding enough time to look after my family and think about my own needs. This constant struggle to fit everything into our lives is something I really enjoy helping my clients work through as well.

Where do you find inspiration beyond work?

I love transforming things – whether it’s organizations and leaders, or old houses and interiors. Travelling with my family is also a big part of my life. There’s nothing like seeing a new place through their eyes.

Meet The partners

I really admire leaders who can get curious in the toughest moments.

David Seibel
Co-Founder and President

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from David
We fill the role of trusted advisor, providing clients with insight they don’t get anywhere else.

Dan Green
Partner

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Insight Collaborative Online

Through our non-profit sister organization, we share the same insights and skills with underserved groups around the world.

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