Director of HR, Workforce and Accreditation for the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics, Contributor to BBC Radio & Former Non-Executive Director at Sainsbury PLC

Jean Tomlin OBE is an acclaimed leader in business management and human resources, recognised for directing the largest peacetime workforce in British history during the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. She successfully oversaw the employment of 200,000 people and led the internationally celebrated team of 70,000 Game Makers, a model of volunteer engagement now studied worldwide. Her achievements in workforce strategy, diversity and inclusion, and large-scale organisational leadership have established her as one of the most respected figures in the field of people management.

Jean’s impact in business management and human resources is reflected in the breadth of her leadership roles across both corporate and public life. A graduate of the University of Warwick, she has consistently been called upon to guide organisations through transformation, governance and workforce strategy. Her leadership of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games workforce remains a defining example of operational excellence, with her team setting new standards in mobilisation, engagement and inclusion.

Beyond this, Jean has contributed her expertise as a Non-Executive Director at Sainsbury PLC, Capri Holdings and Hakluyt & Company, where her insight has helped shape long-term strategy and performance. She has also advised the BBC and served as a Commissioner for Judicial Appointments, strengthening governance and transparency in public institutions. Honoured with an OBE, Jean continues to influence boardrooms and organisations seeking to achieve lasting impact through people-focused leadership.

Jean has enriched business and HR discourse through high-profile media engagement. She has featured on BBC television programmes discussing organisational culture and workforce leadership, and contributed to BBC radio segments exploring inclusion and the evolving workplace landscape. In addition, she delivered a widely shared interview with a leading UK business publication, where she spoke insightfully about strategic leadership and inclusive workplace practice, further underscoring her position as a respected voice in the field of people management.

Why Hire Jean Tomlin?

Jean is widely sought after as a business management speaker because of her unmatched experience in leading people-focused transformation at scale. She offers audiences real-world lessons from her extensive boardroom and advisory career with leading organisations. Her expertise spans recruitment, retention, diversity, engagement and strategic workforce planning, delivered with clarity and authority.

Beyond corporate audiences, she has served in influential public sector roles, including Commissioner for Judicial Appointments, bringing a wealth of insight to each speaking engagement. Jean’s contributions demonstrate the impact of strong leadership and an inclusive workplace culture. Her talks provide both inspiration and practical guidance, making her a compelling choice for organisations seeking to drive performance through people.

To book Jean to speak at your event, call SpeakOut on +44 (0) 20 8914 8966. Alternatively, complete our contact form to begin your enquiry.