About Me
Sue Whitaker (Pronouns - She/They)
Founder & Director
Hello, I'm Sue!
I have been in HR for over 20 years. I started working as a HR Administrator and worked in various roles from Advisor, Business Partner, and then a Subject Matter Expert in Learning & Development, Talent & Engagement. I have worked in various different sectors from retail, automotive, airline catering to provision of IT services.
I am passionate about helping businesses to attract, develop and retain their talent and want to share my knowledge, skills and experience and collaborate with businesses to achieve sustainable and practical solutions for their people.
How Blackstar Alchemy started?
In August 2024, my life took an unexpected turn. I became a primary caregiver—a role that reshaped my values, priorities, and sense of purpose. Unlike previous challenges, this wasn’t temporary. There was no clear end point, only uncertainty.
To be the best version of myself for those I care for—and for me—I made a bold decision: I stepped away from corporate life and started my own business.
I first registered the business on 10th January 2025, which was also the birthday of my beloved feline companion Tipsy (see left). She was a rescue cat whom I adopted when she was 7 years old and stayed with us for 14 years, passing away peacefully at the age of 21 in May 2024.
She was my little star and an inspiration for the business name.
Our Values
I want to make sure I offer a professional, safe, non-judgemental space where the people I work with feel seen, heard, and respected—exactly as they are, whether they are looking for help personally or professionally.
That’s why our values are grounded in C.A.R.E.—a framework that reflects not only how I work, but what my clients can expect in return:
Curiosity
We meet people with empathy, compassion, and kindness.
Authenticity
Being true and honest aligning actions with genuine beliefs.
Respect
Inclusive, judgement-free environments where every voice matters.
Encouragement
Lifting others up with support, positivity, and guidance.
My Approach
I believe everyone has the potential to succeed—it’s already within you!
Sometimes, all it takes is the right guidance to unlock that potential. My role is to provide that steer: clear strategies, practical tools, and unwavering support to help you move forward with confidence.
Everyone is also different in how they operate, how they learn grow. Regardless of whom I work with and how I try to stick to three basic principles;
Accessible & Inclusive
Neurodivergent Friendly
Authentic & Empowering