Oblig8Ed: Career Conversations

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This series delves into career conversations. We believe that every career is a story worth telling. In each episode, we sit with guests who have navigated careers in law, compliance, governance and other professions. We explore their unique career journies and what they learned along the way. If you’re searching for clarity, courage, or just a spark of inspiration, you’re in the right place. It starts with a conversation.

Episodes

  1. Jul 16

    Compliance & Culture: Building Trust with Kate Jones

    In this episode of Oblig8Ed, host Ashrita Patel sits down with Kate Jones, Compliance Consultant, Co-Founder of KANA Consulting, and Co-Host of the Financial Services Compliance Forum. Kate's career is proof that compliance is far more than policies and regulations. Combining degrees in Management Science and Law, she intentionally pursued a career where legal knowledge and relationship-building come together. From leading Compliance functions across insurance and financial services to launching her own consultancy, Kate shares the experiences that have shaped her approach to leadership and business. Together, Ashrita and Kate explore why Compliance should be seen as a strategic partner rather than a business blocker, how organisations can build a genuine culture of integrity, and why proactive compliance creates long-term value. Kate also speaks openly about balancing a successful career with parenthood, navigating imposter syndrome, and taking the leap into entrepreneurship.  The episode also explores: ●       What compliance really is and why it matters ●      Building a strong compliance culture from the top down ●      Why Compliance should enable business, not restrict it ●      The value of proactive risk management and trusted relationships ●      Balancing career ambition with family life ●      Overcoming imposter syndrome and believing in your abilities ●      Starting and growing a successful consultancy business ●      The power of coaching and sponsorship ●      Creating a career built on purpose, flexibility and personal values   Throughout the conversation, Kate shares honest reflections on the challenges and opportunities that come with leadership, entrepreneurship and working in Compliance. She shares the realities of building a business from scratch, the importance of supportive workplaces, and why creating a career that aligns with your values is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. Whether you're considering a career in Compliance, looking to progress into leadership, or thinking about starting your own business, this episode offers practical advice and inspiring lessons from someone who has successfully navigated each stage of the journey.   After reflecting on this episode: what will you do to progress your career?

  2. Jul 14

    Leadership vs Management: What Drives High-Performing Teams | With Ranald Munro

    Leadership vs Management: Principles, Practice, and Impact In this episode of Oblig8Ed, host Ashrita Patel sits down with Ranald Munro CBE, Executive Adviser (Executive Coach, Mentor and Confidante), Chief Legal Officer, Military Reservist.   The two explore the complex world of leadership across law, compliance, and military settings. Drawing from decades of experience as a barrister, in-house legal leader, and senior officer in the Royal Auxiliary Air Force, Ranald shares his insights on what truly separates leadership from management, and how effective leaders inspire teams, make critical decisions, and foster trust in high-pressure environments.   The episode also explores: ●      The difference between leadership and management ●      How to empower teams and cultivate accountability, innovation, and ownership ●   Leadership styles from transformational to situational (and when to use each) ●    Balancing technical skill with emotional intelligence and communication ●    Lessons from high-pressure environments, including military operations and corporate decision-making ●    Developing moral courage, decisiveness, and servant leadership ●      Practical advice for stepping into leadership opportunities ●      How self-reflection, practice, and adaptability strengthen leadership  Throughout the conversation, Ranald illustrates how leadership can be a learnable skill and emphasises the importance of serving others while inspiring performance. His experiences provide a roadmap for anyone aiming to lead with impact, whether in legal teams, military units, or any high-stakes professional setting. So, after reflecting on this episode: what leadership lessons can you take back to your team, and how can you step into a role that drives both accountability and inspiration?

  3. May 19

    Career Conversations: From Courtroom to Command | With Ranald Munro

    Leadership, Law & the Military: Navigating Dual Careers at the Highest Level In this episode of Oblig8Ed, host Ashrita Patel, sits down with Ranald Munro CB CBE TD DL VR, Executive Adviser, Executive Coach, Mentor and Confidante, Chief Legal Officer and Military Reservist. Ranald’s career spans from the Crown Prosecution Service to in-house commercial practice and senior military leadership. From early years shaped by living abroad, to becoming a barrister and later holding senior in-house roles as a lawyer and company secretary at organisations like L’Oréal, Chubb Insurance and Lombard, Ranald shares how he built a legal career, almost by accident, then excelled. Alongside this, he served in the military in the Parachute Regiment, rising from private soldier to Major General and Deputy Land Commander Forces in the British Army and then Assistant Chief of the Defence Staff and later as Commandant General, Director Reserves in the Royal Auxiliary Air Force.   Ranald reflects on balancing two demanding careers, and how civilian and military skills and experiences complement each other.  The episode also explores: Building and managing dual careers across different sectors How skills transfer between the practise of law and the military Lessons from operating in high-pressure environments The importance of adaptability Why supportive employers are key to enabling ambitious, non-linear career paths Aligning personal values with organisations/long-term career decisions What success means Goal-setting and why it is important  Why law is a good discipline Throughout the conversation, Ranald shares candid reflections on the realities behind both career paths; offering perspectives on discipline, purpose, and navigating complex environments.  His story highlights what’s possible when ambition is paired with adaptability, a strong sense of purpose in a supportive environment.  After reflecting on this episode: what will you do to progress your career?

  • 3 Episodes

About

This series delves into career conversations. We believe that every career is a story worth telling. In each episode, we sit with guests who have navigated careers in law, compliance, governance and other professions. We explore their unique career journies and what they learned along the way. If you’re searching for clarity, courage, or just a spark of inspiration, you’re in the right place. It starts with a conversation.

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