Who We Are
Our respective work across different cultural and organizational contexts has shaped our interest in how leaders respond to tension and uncertainty. This led us to create Mastering Tension and develop Discomfort Intelligence: a way of helping leaders recognize what discomfort is signalling, rather than simply reacting to it or making it disappear.
Frank Garten brings an unusual depth of experience. A PhD-trained scientist, former general manager and global Learning & Development director, he has spent decades working at the intersection of business performance and human behaviour. He has led international teams, carried commercial and operational responsibility, and advised leaders across industries and cultures.
Frank combines analytical rigour with a direct, deeply human approach. Drawing on extensive work in leadership, conflict, negotiation, communication and cross-cultural cooperation, he quickly sees the dynamics beneath the surface of a team. He is prepared to challenge assumptions, name what others hesitate to say and invite leaders to examine their own contribution.
Alvit Perez Calero is an executive coach and leadership advisor working internationally with leaders and teams across countries, cultures and sectors. With a background spanning international law, management, art and systemic thinking, she focuses on the moments that are hardest to navigate: when complexity, tension and competing perspectives make clear judgment difficult.
Alvit combines structured analysis with curiosity and creative exploration. She helps clients move beyond habitual or limiting patterns, stay effective under pressure and navigate difficult dynamics with greater intention. The result is more deliberate, robust decision-making and more resilient, adaptive leadership.