Episode 49: The ABP’s first quarter century – looking back and looking forward, with Pauline Grant, Claire Lish and Steve Whiddett
POW: The Psychology of WorkShow Notes
This special episode of the Psychology of Work Podcast marks the 25th anniversary of the ABP, and in it we hear from three distinguished ABP members who have each served as Chair or Vice Chair at different points in the organisation’s history. In discussion with Rob Feltham, they reflect on what the ABP has achieved during its first quarter of century and share their aspirations for the ABP’s future. Pauline Grant played a key role in the inception of the ABP and became its first Vice Chair. Steve Whiddett served as Chair for four years from 2009. And Claire Lish is the ABP’s current Chair.
When founded in 2020, the ABP became a new professional home and voice for Business Psychology, and over the subsequent 25 years the organisation has been instrumental in increasing public awareness and recognition of the profession. The ABP has developed a distinctive ethos with its focus on: working shoulder-to-shoulder with clients to achieve practical evidence-based solutions; guardianship and growth of the Business Psychology profession; and emphasis on training and education to ensure that Business Psychology becomes steadily more mainstream and integral to the business agenda.
In 2009 the Health & Care Professionals Council (HCPC) was given statutory responsibility for regulating practitioner psychologists, and this was a critical juncture for the ABP. Given the HCPC’s orientation towards healthcare, it was seen by many as lacking relevance and fit for the Business Psychology profession. The ABP was proactive and successful in establishing a separate identity and path for Business Psychology, subsequently reinforcing this with training and accreditation open to those entering the profession by non-traditional as well as traditional routes.
Key trends and changes in Business Psychology over the ABP's first quarter century have included: growing internationalisation and industry consolation, bringing far greater focus on global partnership and appreciation of diverse perspectives; and much greater emphasis on the organisational and social context for individual behaviour.
Whilst much has been achieved by the ABP over 25 years, there is some way to go to ensure that Business Psychology becomes a non-negotiable component of the organisational and business agenda.
The podcast guests
Pauline Grant
Pauline Grant was awarded Honorary Membership of the ABP in recognition of her pivotal role in the organisation’s founding and her enduring contribution to the profession. As the ABP’s founding Vice Chair, Pauline helped to shape the direction and values of the Association, serving in that role for four formative years. A trusted advisor to C-suite leaders across the globe, Pauline brought authenticity, insight, and unwavering commitment to the application of psychology in improving working lives. Her influence has helped to embed business psychology at the heart of strategic leadership and organisational development.
A Chartered Psychologist and former Director at the boutique consultancy YSC, Pauline’s career has spanned high-level consulting, leadership coaching, and talent development. She is known for her humility, intellectual clarity, and sincere focus on helping individuals thrive. She authored Careering Upwards in 2001 and edited two of the ABP’s flagship publications – Business Psychology in Practice and Business Psychology in Action – bringing together case studies and practical insights from across the profession. Even in retirement, Pauline continues to support the development of others through pro bono work and community contribution. She has supported The ABP Workforce Experience Awards as a Judge, demonstrating her continued investment in the Association’s growth and influence. Pauline’s Honorary Membership celebrates not just her professional achievements but her generous spirit, steadfast dedication, and lasting impact on the evolution of business psychology.
Steve Whiddett
Steve Whiddett was awarded Honorary
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