Edleen John

Edleen John FCIPD is a specialist diversity and inclusion consultant with tremendous experience across a range of industries. In her role for the FA as the International, Corporate Affairs and Co-Partner for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Director she leads on the development and communication of public policy messaging and works on the planning and delivery of the FA's diversity and inclusion plan. She has also held senior leadership and director roles for global companies such as KPMG, Lloyds of London and Morgan Stanley. As a speaker, Edleen is highly engaging and thought-provoking, she is highly sought after and offers tremendous insight into culture change.

Having attained a Masters in Psychiatry and Psychology from Kings College London, Edleen has gone on to have a starling professional career working in the financial services sector. Edleen went on to become the Head of Inclusion, Diversity, and Social Equality at KPMG. She was the youngest and only black director in the 'people function' of the company at the time. Her extensive managerial experience across both revenue-generating and support functions provides a strong foundation and a depth of knowledge that makes her truly unique as a speaker.

Outside of her ongoing work with FA, Edleen is an active member on several boards including DIAL, a global community for Diverse Inclusive Aspirational Leaders. She is also a non-executive Director of Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust and is School Governor at a community school for young people with severe and profound disabilities.

Edleen has been recognised for her hard work and experience with several awards including; Football Black List Top 100; 'Yahoo! Finance EMpower Top 100 Ethnic Minority Future Leaders; 'We Are The City' Rising Star in HR and Recruitment; a Top Ten BAME Inspirational Leader and a shortlisted National Diversity Award winner for a Positive Age Role model. Her awards are a reflection of her work as a leader and experience. She is well placed to speak on the highs and lows of career progression, facing challenges, and striving for success.