Previous experience

James M Blake is based in south London. After graduating from St Andrews in International Relations, he obtained a distinction from SOAS, work experience at the Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI), and a visit to the White House in 2006. He spent two years attached to the Centre for the Study of Terrorism and Political Violence, with the first under the direction of Professor Paul Wilkinson. Subsequently, he worked with Janusian Security Risk Management for five years, with clients including Aon, JP Morgan and Deutsche Bank, before he was embedded into the International Monetary Fund by Control Risks and helped advise them during the Arab Spring and Afghanistan as a regional security advisor.

He then worked for the International Rescue Committee Emergency Unit and Security team for three years, which included providing work, contextual analysis and humanitarian access risk assessment on Syria and Libya to senior staff around humanitarian crises.

He has since worked for Veracity Worldwide as an associate director with large multinational companies, as a consultant and around various international conflicts and security crises.

Crisis Readiness: How Business Leaders Can Better Prepare for Tomorrow on Issues from Climate to Cyber

“The COVID-19 pandemic has shown how crisis events can impact our lives as individuals, but also the way businesses operate, and the world has changed immeasurably because of its emergence. As such, a critical review of corporate crisis management thinking was needed and with Crisis Readiness, James Blake encourages readers to do just that, and then takes us on the journey through key considerations of that process. It’s a fantastic read, full of relevant examples that leaders in risk management could benefit from reading. With the scale of the climate crisis unfolding day-by-day and the unprecedented impacts it will cause, this book could not be more timely.”

James Morris, Head of Security Services EMEA, AON

“Just as the pandemic defied our imagination, the impacts of climate change have been hard to fathom – until now. James Blake draws on his keen understanding of risk management to offer a compelling call to action to manage the operational risks of climate change, engage the community in solutions and steer business strategies to embrace the unimaginable. Blake shines a light on the possibilities for a more resilient world.”

Lori Collins, CEO, Collins Climate Consulting

In today’s ever-changing and unpredictable world, being prepared for any crisis is crucial for business leaders. James Blake’s book, Crisis Readiness: How Business Leaders Can Better Prepare for Tomorrow On Issues from Climate to Cybersecurity, offers a comprehensive guide on risk management and provides valuable insights on how entrepreneurs and business leaders can strengthen their strategies to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.

One of the book’s strengths lies in its exploration of various issues that businesses may face, including climate change and cybersecurity. Blake delves into these subjects deeply, offering practical advice and strategies for mitigating risks. By addressing these pressing concerns, he demonstrates how businesses can adapt and thrive in adversity.

In conclusion, Crisis Readiness by James Blake is an illuminating book that offers invaluable insights and practical strategies for business leaders. Blake’s authentic writing style and comprehensive approach make this book a must-read for anyone interested in risk management and crisis preparedness. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting your business journey, this book will equip you with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the challenges of tomorrow.

Expertise that matters

James Blake deliver robust analyses and risk management strategies. If you think your organisation needs advice, write a message.