Nicky Adams

Mrs Nicky Adams is a Senior Lecturer in HR & Leadership at the University of Wolverhampton Business School. Her expertise spans leadership development, human resources, sustainability, corporate social responsibility, and volunteer management. She teaches leadership, HR, and Learning & Development (L&D) on CIPD-accredited programs and has led the validation of CIPD programs at multiple levels.

Education

• MSc in HR Development and Organisational Change, University of Wolverhampton (2011)
• CMI Level 5 Certificate in Management Coaching and Mentoring in Action Learning (2010)
• PGCE in Post-Compulsory Education, University of Wolverhampton (2009)
• CIPD Certificate in Training Practice (2001)
• Chartered Institute of Marketing Diploma, Wolverhampton Polytechnic (1992)
• BA in Languages for Business, Wolverhampton Polytechnic (1986)

Research Interests

Nicky is pursuing a part-time PhD focused on leadership and management development in the voluntary sector. She has presented at voluntary sector conferences and collaborates on research about Action Learning in undergraduate education and AI’s impact on the workplace.

Professional Memberships

• Chartered Fellow, Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development
• Member, Chartered Management Institute
• Senior Fellow, Higher Education Academy

Industry Experience

Prior to academia, she spent 20 years in manufacturing and service sectors, managing UK and multinational customer service teams, implementing systems, and leading leadership development programs. Her work reduced customer complaints by 25% and supported coachees in achieving senior promotions.

Volunteer Work

She has been actively involved with Samaritans since the 1990s, holding roles such as Branch Director (2020–2023), overseeing 80 volunteers, and developing training programs for managing vulnerable individuals. She also supports inpatients at a local Mental Health Foundation Trust.