Who is behind ICOS?
ICOS was founded by Guillemette Villemin in 2022, and finds it roots in over a decade of research and practice of leadership and self-cultivation methods.
It is grounded in the unwavering commitment to deliver high quality programmes to future and current leaders willing to develop themselves.
Guillemette’s vision of leadership development is both innovative and practical: ICOS programmes equip participants with the tools to thrive in an ever-changing world. Through ICOS, Guillemette shares her passion for cultivating inner strength and wisdom to achieve lasting, holistic success.
Meet GuillemetteBridging 21st Century Leadership with Ancient Wisdom
In a world where leadership demands agility and insight, Guillemette offers a unique perspective that combines practical business expertise with the timeless concepts of Taoist wisdom. Her approach is grounded in a deep understanding of international business dynamics and enriched by the transformative power of ancient practices.
Global Expertise
2024 - present: e1133 Ltd, Leadership Programme Manager, remote
2021 - present: University of Bristol, Leadership Consultant, Bristol, UK
2019 - 2022: Ashinaga Foundation, Leadership Programme Manager & Student Relations Coordinator, London, UK
2017 - 2018: United Nations, UNHCR, Associated Coordination Officer, Erbil, Iraq
2016: Embassy of Afghanistan, Public Relations Assistant, Tokyo, Japan
2016: Institut Français, Coach for Students, Tokyo, Japan
2014 - 2015: Agence France-Presse, Photo Desk Editor & Communications Assistant, Paris, France
Academic Background
2015-2016: Master’s Degree in Global Studies, Sophia University, Tokyo, Japan (first class distinction)
2012-2017: Master’s Degree in Management, entrepreneurship major, NEOMA Business School, Rouen, France
Commitment to Ancient Wisdom
2019 - present: Da Xuan School, daily training of Xing Yi Xuan, Nei Gong, breath work and meditation. Retreats, workshops, UK and France
2019: meditation retreats, Amaravati Buddhist Monastery, Thai Forest Tradition, UK
2018-2019: Master’s Degree in East-Asian Philosophy, Buddhist and Taoist studies, SOAS University of London (first class distinction)
2018-2019: Ki-Aikido practice, Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido Kai, UK
2017: initiation and intensive meditation practice, Ryumon Ji Zen Sôtô Temple, France
2014-2015: Aikido practice, FFAAA, France
By integrating these ancient, time-tested teachings and disciplines with cutting-edge research in business psychology, Guillemette crafts leadership programmes that foster resilience, adaptability, and strategic thinking for the 21st century.
Her unwavering dedication to ancient wisdom is not just a personal quest but a professional mission.
** For complex, multi-stakeholder requests, we have longstanding partnerships with experts in higher education, funding, public speaking and communications strategy to ensure that your needs are met by a solid and diverse team of highly specialised consultants.
