Keza O’Neill

Short story writer, developmental editor and creative coach
Novelist, Short fiction writer
Available for:
Collaboration, Editing, Festivals and other events, Judging, Lecturing and teaching, Library visits, Live readings and performances, Mentoring, Public speaking, Reader reports, Residencies, School visits, Workshops
Contact me via the SoA

About Me: I am an award-winning short story writer, executive coach, and literary consultant based in Bristol. My fiction explores the intersection of people and place, quiet human tensions and contemporary life. Alongside my writing practice, I bring twenty years of experience in corporate learning, coaching and leadership facilitation to support writers and professional leaders.

Work History & Creative Background

My career spans corporate strategy, executive coaching and literary development:

Writing & Media: My short story Palimpsest was commissioned and broadcast on BBC Radio 4 Short Works in 2026. My fiction has been published in anthologies by Parthian Books and Tangent Books, as well as in literary journals like New Welsh Review. I have also discussed craft and regional setting on BBC Radio Wales and featured on literary panels at events such as the Clevedon Lit Fest.

Leadership & Coaching: Prior to expanding my literary practice, I spent over a decade at Google in People Operations, training over 3,000 global staff in communication, storytelling and leadership. Today, I deliver high-touch coaching and workshop facilitation for leaders at organisations including Microsoft, Amazon, and Unilever.

Editorial & Consulting: I partner with writers on developmental editing, structural evaluation and offer 1:1 author coaching to help refine narrative craft and overcome creative blocks.

Key Areas of Expertise

Literary Craft: Short fiction, voice, character dynamics, narrative pacing and setting.
Developmental Editing: Structural feedback, manuscript evaluations and pitch/query letter preparation.
Coaching & Mentorship: Writer mindset, creative discipline, personal branding and communication frameworks.
Facilitation & Speaking: Moderating panel discussions, leading craft workshops and delivering keynotes.

Awards & Recognition

  • Winner: Rhys Davies Short Story Award 2025 (The Man on the Train)
  • 3rd Place & Sansom Prize: Bristol Short Story Prize 2023 (Lucky Strike)
  • Shortlisted / Longlisted: Rhys Davies Award 2024 (Sunny Side), Mslexia
  • Short Story Prize (The Escape), Bath Short Story Award, and the CWA Debut Dagger.

Upcoming & Current Projects

Short Fiction: Working on a new collection of short stories.
Literary Coaching Practice: Expanding 1:1 book coaching and group facilitation offerings tailored to emerging fiction writers.