Jim Macleod CB

He/him

Gender ally executive leadership ​

Jim served for 33 years in the Royal Navy, retiring as a Rear Admiral in 2022. Throughout his career he has undertaken a range of leadership roles, from operational engineering on warships, through to strategy and transformation. He finished his career as Assistant Chief of Defence Staff, People Capability with responsibility for a range of people related areas, including personnel policy for over £150K service women and men across the military.​

Jim has always been a proponent of inclusive leadership and found that his success in the military came from thinking differently to everyone else yet looking the same. As he became more senior, he used his knowledge and position to open opportunities, support and sponsor those who didn’t “fit the mould”.​

He has carried his passion for leadership development into his post-military career, working with a variety of organisations in coaching, facilitation, leadership development, and delivering inspirational talks. With extensive practical leadership experience and a genuine commitment to helping individuals become their best selves, Jim brings to life in an engaging and open manner the critical role leaders play in fostering inclusive organisations. By sharing his stories and fears, he demystifies the concept of inclusive leadership, empowering others with the confidence to take their own positive steps.