Russell Sowden

HR Programme Manager UCL

Russell is an experienced senior leader and consultant with a diverse portfolio of roles across multiple sectors. His Shared Services experience spans the UK’s Defence Business Services (GBS), Nomura (offshoring), Co-op (GBS) and his current role at UCL (greenfield Shared Service Centre).  His early career was as a British Army officer specializing in Logistics and Personnel including 4 years in Hong Kong where he commanded the Logistic Unit for the handover to China.  Since leaving the Army, he has specialized in HR Leadership, Programme Management for major technology enabled transformations and even spent time in Treasury Operations at Willis Towers Watson! His interests are developing high performing transformation teams and adapting change programme approaches to suit the culture of the organization. He implemented a highly successful People Strategy at DBS as Chief People Officer increasing employee engagement significantly and providing comprehensive customer service and leadership development training programmes.