Meet Jan Dowding

I recently returned to academia, earning a master's degree in occupational and business psychology from Kingston University Business School. My studies focused on leadership, coaching psychology, organisational challenges and change, wellbeing, training and development, diversity and inclusion, and psychological assessments. 

Additionally, I am qualified as a test user for administering work-related psychometric tests and I am a trained executive coach. Please check out my full list of accreditations.

I previously enjoyed a successful 30-year career across diverse and dynamic organisations, including FTSE 100 companies, professional and financial services, retail, media, energy, regulated businesses, government, and the charity sector. My extensive experience spans various corporate cultures. 

Although I started my career in tax, my responsibilities expanded into more senior leadership and strategic roles.  This progression enabled me to hone my leadership and team development skills whilst collaborating with numerous C-suite leaders, giving me a deep understanding of corporate strategy and key performance indicators. 

My corporate journey has equipped me to handle a lot of the "tough stuff," including supporting staff and navigating difficult conversations.  

I know from personal experience that leadership, can be immensely rewarding and highly demanding.  There is an ever-increasing expectation of rising performance on your shoulders and ever-growing demands from internal and external stakeholders. 

Throughout my career, I have always been fascinated by people and curious about workplace behaviors, human interactions and their outcomes.  In retrospect, I realise that I was an intuitive and informal business psychologist long before I pursued a Masters degree in this subject.

Recent feedback has highlighted my keen listening skills, strong self-awareness and strategic insight. It also notes that I demonstrate emotional intelligence and empower others.  Additionally I am recognised for my  authenticity, my good humour, resilience, and strong work ethic.

When I'm not working, I enjoy walking and exercising in the gym (often accompanied by podcasts to make the exercise more enjoyable). I love painting and kurinuki pottery.    I enjoy spending time with friends or watching comedy and documentaries at home with my husband.