I’ve had a broad career, having worked in commercial, public and not-for-profit organisations in more roles than most people have had hot dinners! So I’m not a specialist... This range of expertise has however given me the ability to be able to look at organisations from above and ask, sometimes not very obvious, obvious questions.
Whilst currently attempting to retire (what’s that?) I do still advise organisations on plain language integration of risk and sustainability management into business strategy – both opportunities as well as threats. I also advise on all areas of board and organisational effectiveness.
A graduate in Chemistry from Oxford University, I love bringing what can be dry jargon-laden subjects to life with lots of practical examples.
I spent 25 years in the commercial insurance industry, in a broad range of operations and leadership roles. Highlights include leading integration of the international businesses of the Sun Alliance and Royal Insurance businesses, acting as Chief Information Officer for the Commercial Division of RSA (at Board level) and setting up the firm’s business transformation function.
As CEO, I grew the Institute of Risk Management (IRM), the world’s leading professional body for risk management.
I’ve been a trustee of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health and have held volunteer roles for City & Guilds, the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health and the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management.
As well as my family, other interests include everything to do with mountains, particularly cross-country and alpine skiing, and exploring wild places. I’ve now definitely given up pot-holing, having at one time held the Guinness Book of Records entry for finding the longest cave in mud in the world. Other passions include rebuilding 1980s and 90s cars and watching obscure subtitled films.
As my parents struggled to provide for my brother, sister and me, I’m driven to see everyone achieve their own potential, no matter what their background or origin.
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Qualifications
MA FRSA FIRM CMIOSH FIIRSM FCII