About Us.
Over the last 25 years, as a White, middle-class, heterosexual man I have been on something of an uncomfortable journey learning about how these aspects of me intersect to provide me with advantages and opportunities denied to others. Researching systemic social, economic, and cultural disadvantage has taught me that I need to take responsibility for the actions of my forebears that caused the inequity from which I benefit today. From my own experiences and learning, I understand the questions, dilemmas, anxieties, and concerns of other people with similar identity markers as they engage with EDI in all its forms.
I established Wide Open Voices, to use my career experiences, academic expertise, specialist training, and my own lived experience to work with leaders and organisations on establishing equitable and inclusive cultures and to create the conditions to thrive in the new business context.
Dr Matt Jacobs PhD
At Wide Open Voices, we are dedicated to cultivating a new era of leadership excellence. Our mission is to empower individuals to become visionary leaders who lead with authenticity, infuse purpose and meaning into their organizations, create inclusivity at every level, and deliver business success.
My experience working in the field ranges from working with those experiencing marginalisation to leading on multi-million-pound programmes delivering impact at a city level. I now provide leadership programmes, knowledge development, and consultancy services to businesses, universities, local authorities, and large charities.
I am also a single father of two beautiful, now fully grown and flown, daughters. I love a fine red wine, good music, and cooking an ‘interesting’ version of something I’ve seen on Great British Menu, often all at the same time. I am drawn to visit places I know little about and immerse myself in their coffee-shop culture. I am a committed urbanite and so, cities are the place for me. If I can get there on my motorbike, all the better.
Qualifications & Accreditations
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PhD in Sociology exploring everyday power and privilege at the intersection of race, gender, and class.
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MSc in Ethnicity and Multiculturalism
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BA (Hons) Business Administration
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Senior Practitioner Leadership Coach (ILM Level 7)
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Member of the International Coaching Federation (ICF)
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Member of the Institute of Leadership
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