Leading by Example - Dr James Cusack

Bio – Dr James Cusack, CEO - Autistica

In 2015 James became the national autism charity, Autistica’s, Director of Science. During this time, he has been at the heart of the charity’s growth and impact, including devising and overseeing its national research network; identifying, supporting and funding high-impact scientific studies; making Autistica a global leader in authentic community involvement and making health inequalities a priority for the charity, its beneficiaries and governments around the world.

In August 2020 James became the first openly autistic charity CEO and leads the world-renowned organisation.

Before joining Autistica, James had a successful career working for the University of Aberdeen in autism research.

James has a degree in psychology, a PhD in Biological Motion perception and undertook post-doctorate research with the University of Aberdeen before joining Autistica and being recognised as a rising star by the Association of Chief Executives of Voluntary Organisations (ACEVO) and named in The Shaw Trust 100 Disability Power 100 a list of the most influential disabled in the UK.

Throughout his career as a researcher and with Autistica, James has championed the needs and rights of those diagnosed with autism. James most recently unveiled ambitious goals that aim to transform the future of autistic people by 2030.

Podcast Outline

• Early Years & Influences

• Career Path

• Dame Stephanie Shirley - The Autistica Story

• Autism and Leadership

• Neurodiversity in the Workplace

• The Future - 2030

• Sharing an insight that could help others in a leadership role

• Close