Maria Paviour: Taking the Helm as New ABP Chair

Setting her sights on inspiring change and nurturing growth in the world of business psychology, Maria Paviour gears up for her new role as Chair of the Association for Business Psychology (ABP). This celebrated Occupational Psychologist, accomplished author, and respected business leader brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a unique perspective to the position.

The seeds of Maria’s journey into psychology were sown in her academic roots, which combined biology and psychology. Starting her career in finance during the whirlwind era of the 80s, she found her calling in consultancy. Her standout contribution was at Advertiser Friday-Ad where she introduced pioneering psychological practices and integrated technology through gamification in a time of technological apprehension.

Maria’s vision led to her establishing a tech company in 1990, offering over 300 self-authored manuals on psychological leadership for both corporates and charities worldwide. Her technological prowess earned recognition from the British Government, a testament to her commitment to merging psychology and technology to drive growth and change. This success laid the foundation for her EU award-winning software, Cari, which measures presenteeism and corporate well-being risk.

Despite her traumatic brain injury in 2004, Maria converted her challenge into an opportunity. She developed a recovery programme that evolved into the School for Neuroscience-based Coaching (NeuChem). This ILM accredited programme offers Coaching and Mentoring with neuroscience at Level 5 Certificate and Diploma.

Her dedication to well-being led her to a groundbreaking role running an NHS Medical Centre based on the principles of positive psychology. Remarkably, she elevated patient satisfaction levels from a mere 17% to an astounding 70% within a year.

As the incoming Chair of ABP, Maria brings this strong ethos of promoting well-being and performance in the workplace. Her focus on inclusivity and her desire to make psychology in work accessible to all align perfectly with the ABP’s values. Her long-standing commitment to social justice and a sustainable planet further strengthens her resolve to make a positive impact in her new role.

In response to why she decided to take on the ABP Chair role, Maria explains, “I love leading organisations through change and growth. It puts me in my bliss. I think it’s so important to create this movement to improve work and make it happier and better for everyone. I aim to ensure that the world listens to what the ABP has to say about improving the world of work.”

Her vision for the ABP’s future success is clear: “We are a membership association, and we need to make our members love us. We need to support our members in driving this movement into their organisation, helping them be the best they can be. We should aim to create a community that shares their needs, learning, knowledge, wisdom, and brilliance.”

With Maria Paviour at the helm of the ABP, her unwavering commitment to her field, combined with her personal experience and professional prowess, promises a bright and transformative future for the world of business psychology.