Richard Thompson

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As an accomplished employment lawyer and seasoned leadership trainer, Richard has dedicated over 20 years to shaping the landscape of the workplace. With a unique blend of legal expertise and training acumen, Richard has made a significant impact with organisations across the world. 

Leadership development 

Guided by a passion for the human aspects of the workplace, since 2014 Richard has specialised in designing and delivering high-quality leadership development programmes. During that time, he has worked extensively with financial sector and professional services clients in over 15 countries across Europe, North America, South America, Australasia and Asia Pacific. He is highly experienced in working with senior leaders, including Board and Exco level groups, but equally enjoys working with a broad range of leaders – from new-to-role managers to the most seasoned professionals. 

Working with Richard  

What sets Richard apart is his ability to connect with people. Richard receives consistent feedback that he is able to quickly and effectively create rapport and build connections with the leaders and stakeholders he works with. He understands that to drive true change, leaders need to build strong behavioural habits - Richard’s training initiatives have empowered thousands of leaders globally. Whether through workshops, seminars, keynote speeches, bespoke programmes or 1:1 training, he instils a vision of transformation within organisations. Richard firmly believes that sustainable change begins with informed leaders who champion accountability, compassion and trust.  

Outside of work 

Richard lives in rural Cumbria and is passionate about all things outdoors. In his spare time, he is often to be found hiking up a mountain (or cycling down one!) or kayaking across a lake. His latest interest is long-distance hiking, and he has already completed a number of long-distance routes including the Cumbria Way, the Cleveland Way and the Norfolk Coast Path. He also makes a mean marmalade!   

Qualifications and experience at a glance 

• Law degree (LLB): 2:1 University of Sheffield 
• 2001 – 2003: Intelligence Officer, Royal Air Force 
• 2004 – 2014: Practising employment Lawyer 
• 2014 – 2024: Co-head of Training, Byrne Dean Limited 
• 2024 – present: Co-founder and Director, Odyssey Consulting Ltd 

Skills 

• Bespoke session design and development 
• Culture research programmes 
• Engaging and impactful facilitation style 
• 1:1 training 
• Small group workshops 
• Large auditorium style presentations 
• Keynote speeches 
• Global experience 
• Regularly works with senior leaders