Career advice team

Laura Woodward Chartered MCIPD

I studied psychology at Lancaster University with the original aim of becoming an educational psychologist. 

After graduating I was offered a job recruiting police officers, which progressed into working in HR for the Lancashire Constabulary for some years. This was followed by further HR work in a rehabilitation centre before joining the HR department at the Royal Society of Chemistry.

My interest in professional development led me to move into careers work at the Royal Society of Chemistry in 2011.

Professional qualifications

• Chartered CIPD
• Mental Health First Aider

Specialist in

• HR
• Recruitment processes
• Employment law
• Mentoring
• Career breaks

Robert Bowles MRSC RCDP

After an early career in marine biotechnology, I moved out of the lab to develop a career working with people rather than micro-organisms.

I have insight into a wide range of industries and types of companies, having worked for organisations ranging from large multinational pharma companies to small software houses.

My PhD and post-doc work has given me an insight into academic careers, and I also have extensive experience in sales and marketing roles.

I use this wide range of experience to help people find the right role for them.

Professional qualifications

• Level 6 Diploma in Career Guidance and Development with Open University
• Mentoring training
• Mental Health First Aider

Specialist in

• Academic careers
• Careers in industry
• Helping people with career changes, whatever the reason

Since 2017, I have supported the professional development of members and the Career Management team at the Royal Society of Chemistry whilst completing my career guidance and development diploma and gaining Registered Career Development Practitioner (RCDP) status. I also manage the biennial Pay and Reward Survey.

Previously, I worked at Cambridge Judge Business School supporting one-year MBA students from a wide range of industries and backgrounds to achieve their ambitious career goals. Before changing careers, I worked in the publishing industry for 10 years at Cambridge University Press and the Royal Society of Chemistry in a number of roles. I also hold a BA(Hons) English from Anglia Ruskin University.

I have insights into a wide range of industries from blue-chip employers to SMEs and career routes into these roles.

Professional qualifications

• Level 6 Diploma in Career Guidance and Development
• Registered Career Development Professional through the Career Development Institute
• Mental Health First Aider

Specialist in

• Researching and utilising labour market information and employment trends