Lisa Drake

With over 25 years’ experience as a commercial mediator, I bring a rare combination of commercial acumen, strategic insight and human-centred skill to resolving disputes across every sector. My practice spans the full spectrum of conflict — from high-value commercial and contractual matters to complex organisational, employment, workplace and leadership disputes and I’m known for quickly getting to the heart of both the technical issues and the people dynamics that sit beneath them. Drawing on board-level strategic experience as well as deep mediation expertise, I bring a pragmatic, commercially attuned perspective that helps parties navigate pressure, uncertainty and risk with clarity. I’m recognised for an energetic, empathetic, intuitive and engaging style that builds rapport quickly, even in tense or emotionally charged situations. Preparation and trust-building are cornerstones of my approach: I work closely with parties to create a sense of psychological safety while maintaining the momentum needed to achieve progress. I’m comfortable challenging constructively, testing assumptions and helping individuals reframe entrenched positions so they can see new pathways forward. Whether the dispute involves contractual breakdown, organisational change, deteriorating workplace relationships or high-stakes reputational issues, I focus on crafting solutions that are practical, durable and forward-looking. My work extends beyond mediation into training, coaching and conflict consultancy, supporting leaders and teams to address systemic issues and embed healthier communication and decision-making practices. Across all my work, I aim to turn conflict into opportunity - enabling people and organisations to reset, rebuild and move forward with confidence.