Sir John Harvey-Jones

Sir John Harvey-Jones is the former Chairman of ICI but is probably better known for the series "The Troubleshooter". Born in London Sir John studied at the Royal Naval College and served in the Royal Navy. No one is quite sure of all his posts but he worked both intelligence appointments and at the Cabinet Office. Sir John speaks Russian and German. Sir John Harvey-Jones, MBE, is tireless in his ambition to promote business and how much fun it can be. His role as BBC 'Troubleshooter' highlighted his belief in people and entrepreneurship. He is a former Chairman of ICI, and for three years running was voted Britain's Most Impressive Industrialist by his peers. He is without a doubt Britain's best-known and most-admired industrialist and his achievements at ICI are legendary.

"Sir John's Trouble-shooter series was an inspiration to me when we were building the Harry Ramsden's business. His business acumen is second to none." John Barnes, Serial Entrepreneur.

Sir John was educated at Tormore School in Deal, Kent, before going to the Royal Naval College in Dartmouth. He served in the Royal Navy during the war, later working in intelligence appointments and at the Cabinet Office. He joined the work study department of ICI in 1956 and worked his way up the ranks, eventually becoming Chairman in 1982, a position which he held until 1987. One of Europe's most respected and internationally recognised business leaders, Sir John has the rare ability to make complex business and management issues understandable to a wide range of differing, and multi-cultural audiences. In his highly informative presentations the charismatic industrialist inspires and motivates audiences with his insight into successful decision making processes and the importance of strong leadership.