Can you please introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about your career?

I’m Jamie Bowen, Head of ESG and Improvement for Chevron Group. I’ve worked in the construction sector for over 30 years, originally starting in finance before moving into business improvement and then Sustainability/ESG.

Do you have any past experience of Behavioural Science? What made you want to learn more about the subject? 

Working in the construction sector, behavioural safety has been a hot topic for many years, and I’ve completed various programmes. I wanted to learn more because I love the psychology side of things, nudge theory etc., what makes people do what they do. As well as safety, we face many challenges on the sustainability front, particularly in relation to climate change and so this course was an opportunity to learn more and see how we could apply it.

Why did you choose to study the Behavioural Science in Practice course at WBS? What attracted you initially?

WBS has an excellent reputation so that immediately attracted me and the location of the Shard was also an attraction. But for me it was the programme that emphasised practical application and learning, which enabled you then to take that immediately back to the workplace and apply it. The length of the course was attractive as well, I don’t have much time in my diary to allow a full week or two out of the office.

What were your personal highlights from the course? Was there a particular day or session that stood out?  

Hearing real-life examples from across the world on how behavioural science has been applied and influenced change. The wide diversity of thought in the lecturers and also other attendees on the course, ensures that you challenge your own thinking and can learn from other sectors.

How did you find the group activities? Was it useful to bounce ideas around other people from different industries?

Most definitely. I think that’s where you really start to understand the theory by being more hands on and hearing the opinions and experiences of other people, it brings the learning to life. Learning from different sectors allows you to challenge your thinking, think differently and improve.

What impact do you think the course will have on your career going forward? What learning from the course do you think will be most applicable to your job role?

It will have a major impact; we can look at designing interventions which can make us industry leading in our health and safety performance and it will also help us deal with the challenges of climate change.

In your opinion, why is Behavioural Science important? Should all leaders look to implement it within their organisation?   

We face many challenges in the 21st century and the need to adapt and change has never been more critical. Behavioural Science allows you to understand why people do the things they do and develop interventions that can help your organisation flourish in an ever-changing environment. The question is not ‘why implement behavioural science’ but rather ‘why wouldn’t you?’

Why should someone join the Behavioural Science in Practice course at WBS?

The Behavioural Science in Practice course at WBS is an excellent opportunity to learn about the current thinking in behavioural science from leading experts and thinkers. It’ll enable you to gain practical experience of using the tools and techniques, which you can then quickly transfer back to your own organisation.

In an ever-changing world in the 21st century, understanding why people do the things and how you can influence and change that, is critical to keep ahead of your competition.

Find out more about our Behavioural Science in Practice course.