Littleborough man stands for position of British Psychological Society president-elect

Jimmy Petruzzi

A man from Littleborough is one of two candidates standing for the position of president elect within the British Psychological Society.

Jimmy Petruzzi, originally of Sydney, Australia, who came to the UK in 1995, is hoping to be elected to the two-year role within the society. The successful candidate will serve two years as president-elect, followed by two years as president.

He is currently a committee member, communications officer, and co-chair elect of the North West of England branch of the BPS.

Jimmy said: “I fully appreciate it is an important role within the British Psychological Society, and if elected, an opportunity to become involved in overseeing BPS’ strategic direction and helping to deliver for BPS members.”

Describing himself as a lifelong learner, he added: “I come from an ethnic background, a very working-class background, I was born and brought up from a migrant family. I truly believe psychology is a place for everybody.

“I would like to promote a diverse representation of the society, in terms of age, race, religion, nationality, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, and national origin, which brings diverse viewpoints and perspectives.

“It’s important to recognise that a ‘one-size-fits all’ approach to managing people does not achieve fairness and equality of opportunity for everyone. People have different personal needs, values and beliefs.

“I really believe in inclusivity. I feel strongly about that, and I believe that, having different perspectives around the field of psychology. I’m really interested in different perspectives and hearing members’ voices. It’s about all of us coming together.”

A published author and lecturer, Jimmy also works as a performance coach for Bacup Borough FC, and as a radio broadcaster for Salford City Radio. A performance coach for over 20 years, he has worked around the world with many top businesses, entrepreneurs, corporations, professional football teams and individuals at national and international level in the English premiership and worldwide.

Voting is open until 12pm on 15 July for BPS members eligible to vote.

The successful candidate will be announced at the British Psychological Society’s Annual General Meeting in Leicester on 27 July.