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Interview with Iphigenia von Moock-Tsipas, Founder & CEO, PhiThea™ Elite Advisory for Women in Motion “Motion means evolution — the courage to move forward, redefine, and lead. It’s not just progress; it’s purpose in action.” — Iphigenia von Moock-Tsipas On the sidelines of the 2025 WE Convention in Dubai — one of the region’s largest gatherings dedicated to women’s leadership and entrepreneurship — the Dubai Chronicle sat down with Iphigenia von Moock-Tsipas, founder of PhiThea™ | Elite Advisory for Women in Motion. She shared insights into her model that bridges coaching, leadership development, and strategic advisory for women aiming to rise and lead with confidence. Blending female executive coaching, micro-consulting for women, and embedded advisory for corporates, the practice helps founders, leaders, and organizations accelerate growth and lead with clarity and cultural impact. Its approach bridges personal evolution with enterprise transformation — shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future of leadership. Defining a “Woman in Motion” DC: How do you define “Woman in Motion”? Iphigenia: For me, motion is synonymous with evolution — the continuous movement toward growth, progress, and purpose. It’s the drive to bring an idea to life, to move from thought into impact. Many women, whether early in their careers or well established, reach moments where they feel a shift is needed — to evolve, redefine direction, or lead change. Woman in Motion represents that energy — the courage to act, learn, and advance rather than stay stagnant. It’s a mindset of purposeful movement that defines both my work and philosophy. The Meaning Behind PhiThea DC: So, ready to fly but not yet flying? Iphigenia: Exactly — and that idea is at the heart of my work. The name PhiThea carries layers of meaning. Phi refers to the golden ratio — that universal rhythm of balance and proportion found in nature and art. It’s a reminder that growth isn’t linear; it unfolds through harmony between structure and flow. Thea, from the Greek for “divine wisdom,” speaks to intuition — the inner guidance that fuels creativity and purpose. Together, they form a philosophy of alignment: where logic meets intuition, and motion becomes mastery. Women in Motion builds on that — not as mere movement, but as evolution. It’s about breaking stagnation, challenging stereotypes, and embracing change as a pathway to progress — personally, professionally, and collectively. The Women Behind the Movement DC: What kind of women typically come to you for coaching or advisory? Iphigenia: The work unfolds across three dimensions that mirror different stages of a woman’s journey. First, through female executive coaching, we support women navigating transitions — whether stepping into leadership, building confidence, or leading through change. It’s about cultivating the mindset and tools to lead with clarity and resilience. Second, our micro-consulting practice focuses on women founders — helping them turn creative ideas into sustainable ventures. Using agile methods and strategic design, we test ideas, shape strategies, and turn vision into measurable outcomes. And third, at the corporate level, we offer embedded advisory programs that integrate gender inclusion and leadership diversity into organizational strategy — from culture transformation to female leadership pipelines. Together, these strands form a continuum connecting personal growth, entrepreneurial innovation, and systemic change. The Traits of Transformation DC: What are the key traits of women who thrive in your programs? Iphigenia: Ambition, vision, and openness to transformation. I connect with women driven by purpose and creativity — those with determination to lead, but who seek structure and strategy to accelerate. PhiThea grew from a fusion of vision, ambition, and experience — a bridge between strategic advisory and human insight. Having spent over two decades in male-dominated industries, I learned that resilience, empathy, and clarity are the real foundations of leadership. When I came to Dubai 25 years ago, I was often the only woman in the boardroom — an experience that shaped how I now help others navigate complexity with confidence and composure. A Global Footprint Rooted in the Region DC: Where are you based, and how do you deliver your programs? Iphigenia: I’m based between Riyadh and Dubai and work with clients across the GCC, Europe, the MENASA region, and the United States. Sessions are delivered both in person and digitally, depending on the client’s needs. The Middle East, particularly Saudi Arabia and the UAE, is at an exciting inflection point — more women are stepping into leadership, entrepreneurship, and governance roles. Our mission is to help sustain this momentum and connect it with global best practices. Purpose with a Multiplier Effect DC: What is the main goal behind your coaching and mentoring? Iphigenia: The goal is to create a multiplier effect — empowering women who, in turn, transform the systems they’re part of. Leadership, when modeled with integrity, has a ripple effect. Our mission aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those focused on gender equality, innovation, and sustainable growth. By advancing women into leadership, we amplify social and economic resilience — building stronger organizations and more inclusive societies. Beyond Business – Toward Global Impact DC: And beyond business? Iphigenia: Leadership extends beyond boardrooms. Women must be visible in governance, policy, and public decision-making. Increasing female leadership across sectors isn’t just fairness — it’s a global imperative for innovation and sustainable development. The ultimate vision is a more equitable world, shaped by diverse voices and perspectives. The Inspiration Behind the Work DC: What inspired you to create this work? Iphigenia: My own career journey. After decades in international, male-dominated sectors, I saw how often women faced invisible barriers — not from lack of ability, but from context. This work grew from the conviction that women’s leadership is not only about empowerment but about strategic impact — combining coaching, consulting, and cultural advisory to help women lead with purpose, agility, and authenticity. Transformation in Action DC: Can you share an example of a client transformation that stands out? Iphigenia: One client in a male-dominated industry came close to resigning due to a tense dynamic with a superior. Through targeted coaching, she learned to navigate the relationship strategically rather than emotionally. Within months, she rebuilt the alliance and earned a promotion. It’s a reminder that adaptability and self-awareness are powerful catalysts for advancement. Results in Motion DC: How long does it usually take to see results? Iphigenia: For coaching, transformation typically emerges within three to six months. For consulting or advisory projects, results can often be seen within four to eight weeks when intent and alignment are strong. Breaking Free from Fear DC: And what’s one belief you help women break free from? Iphigenia: Fear — especially the need to feel “fully ready” before acting. Women often over-prepare and under-launch. I tell my clients: take the step first — readiness follows. Growth begins the moment you move. Motion is the catalyst for transformation.
