Matthew Atkinson (2002 Leaver) – A Career in Business Psychology

I began my career by analysing football statistics for The Times newspaper’s Fink Tank column. After I graduated from Cambridge in 2005, I was keen to use my passion for Experimental Psychology (the subject in which I specialised) in my career. Psychological football research was a good short-term option.

After 6 months, I was craving a clear career path. I moved to Innocent Drinks, falling into Supply Chain management. I was responsible for planning production for the entire 1-litre range of smoothies to optimise their supply. Within Innocent’s fantastic fast-paced entrepreneurial environment, I spent two years soaking up a wide range of business insight. I also spent four months in Hamburg, helping to establish Innocent’s presence in Germany.

My Supply Chain career subsequently developed through roles at L’Oreal and Danone, this time partnering with customers such as Tesco to manage demand for products, rather than their supply.

I realised that I would never be completely fulfilled unless I returned to psychology. In 2010, I decided to take a risk for my long term career; I speculatively investigated Business Psychology careers – moving away from what had made me successful to date.

In 2011, I began a year’s internship at YSC, a global Business Psychology Management Consultancy based in Covent Garden. I also began an evening MSc course in Occupational Psychology. Looking back, this was the best career decision I made.

I am currently a Senior Consultant and Head of the Research Team. My work specialises in the assessment and development of individual and organisational leadership potential and capability. I work with senior executives from FTSE100 organisations through one-to-one interviews and coaching. I am fascinated by my work and would encourage others to follow their passions.

Matthew Atkinson (2002 Leaver)