Zehra Ahmed

Learn more about Zehra Ahmed, who graduated from our MSc Organisational and Social Psychology in 2017. 

I have a background in psychosocial studies that informs my approach to managing people in different settings. My experience includes HR and talent research as well as organisational development, from large multinationals to small businesses and the NHS. I'm particularly interested in social and behavioural research in institutional settings and in improving real-life policy around work-life balance and education. My research includes an exploration of the experiences of working mothers, focusing on their challenges and transformations in the workplace. Additionally, I've collaborated on a study examining former PM Boris Johnson's leadership and its impact on social policies during the pandemic. These publications reflect my way of contributing to meaningful discussions around work and leadership in society. I have a love for music, art and culture, and spend my time between Toronto and London, where I enjoy discovering what each city has to offer.

What is your current job title, and what does the role entail?

I'm a Senior Research Consultant, and I focus on talent acquisition and intelligence, working closely with organisations to enhance their leadership, workflow and recruitment strategies. I conduct talent mapping, succession planning and diversity initiatives through case-studies and via administration of psychometrics. By integrating DEI principles, I help create inclusive workplaces and provide data-driven insights to inform strategic talent management decisions. My goal is to optimise executive searches, serve better market intelligence and improve overall organisational performance across a range of industries.

Tell us about your career journey since graduating from LSE. 

 I always aimed to stay in academia, but through my course, I realised I could apply my knowledge in real-world settings while pursuing research on the side. An internship at an executive search firm, found via the LSE job board, introduced me to this new path. Since then, I’ve worked with fast-growing boutique research firms, gaining insights into various industries. I went on to pursue an MSc in Educational Policy to apply my learning to specific institutional settings. Moving between the UAE, Canada, and the UK has given me a cosmopolitan perspective. While I plan to pursue a PhD in the near future, my work experience has equipped me well for this journey.

How has the programme you studied helped your career since you graduated?  

Having a degree in Organisational Social Psychology has greatly enhanced my work as a research consultant. It allowed me to analyse team dynamics to improve workflows and identify bottlenecks effectively. By applying psychological principles, I have been able to foster better collaboration and communication and I have better discipline as an employee. The programme taught me how to link theory to real-world situations, making my insights actionable and impactful for clients.

What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve received?  

Learn, learn, learn, Every interaction is an opportunity to learn and better yourself, both personally and professionally.

Share with us your fondest memory of the Department of Psychological and Behavioural Science.  

Some of my favourite memories from PBS department are the many, many hours spent in the library with a close group of friends I was lucky enough to meet, from across the world. I really valued the different perspectives they brought to our course. Looking back, I see how much they enriched both my academic experience and my life outside of class. I had the opportunity to collaborate recently with a friend from the LSE on a research publication, so those friendships go a long way!

If you're a PBS alum and would like to share your experience, please get in touch at pbs.alumni@lse.ac.uk.