Tony McGaharan

Tony McGaharan is the founder of People Playbook, a global learning consultancy established in 2020. A native of Belfast, he has a diverse background that includes roles as a high school teacher, peace-builder, and professional basketball coach. His career also includes significant experience at Google, where he served in various capacities including Account Strategist and Learning Program Manager.12

Career Highlights

• Education and Early Career: McGaharan began his career as a high school teacher and transitioned into coaching basketball, which reflects his passion for leadership and development.
• Experience at Google: He worked in Google's People Operations across multiple locations, including Dublin, Singapore, and London, where he honed his skills in leadership development and learning program management.2
• Founding People Playbook: Inspired by his experiences at Google, McGaharan founded People Playbook to create engaging learning experiences. The company quickly adapted to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic by pivoting to online workshops, allowing it to serve a global clientele.12

People Playbook

People Playbook focuses on developing leadership and team capabilities through innovative learning designs. The company has partnered with various organizations, including Trustpilot and Ubisoft, to facilitate tailored learning experiences. Despite starting as a one-person operation during the pandemic, it has grown to include a small team dedicated to enhancing client experiences and expanding its reach.13

Personal Philosophy

McGaharan emphasizes the importance of adaptability and finding opportunities in challenging circumstances. He believes in building relationships that foster collaboration and growth, both personally and professionally.2 He also hosts the Three Points podcast, where he discusses themes related to leadership and personal development.24

In summary, Tony McGaharan is a seasoned leader in people development with a unique blend of educational, corporate, and coaching experiences that inform his approach at People Playbook.