- Expert in behavioural economics and decision making
- Former Managing Director at Goldman Sachs
- Founding member of the Cialdini Institute, the science of ethical persuasion
Paul Craven is an expert in behavioural economics and decision making, specialising in the psychology of influence and human behaviour in business. Drawing on three decades of experience in global asset management with Schroders, PIMCO, and Goldman Sachs, Paul has built a career understanding how people make decisions in real-world contexts and helping organisations optimise outcomes.
Since founding Paul Craven Partners Ltd in 2014, Paul has dedicated his work to promoting behavioural economics, blending his deep financial expertise with cutting-edge psychological insights. He is also a founding member of the Cialdini Institute, an organisation focused on the principles of ethical persuasion and influence, and is certified to deliver its globally respected training programmes.
Paul's ability to translate complex behavioural theories into practical, actionable strategies has made him a much sought-after speaker, and he has delivered hundreds of talks to a diverse range of audiences, from entrepreneurs to investors to lawyers to tech companies. He weaves storytelling, real-world examples, and interactive elements into his sessions, often surprising audiences with extra insights drawn from his interest in the psychological techniques behind magic.
Beyond his work in behavioural economics, Paul serves as an adviser to the investment committee of a major UK pension scheme. He is also a visiting lecturer at the London Business School and his first book on behavioural science will be published in 2025.
Paul’s engaging, personable and interactive approach ensures his talks resonate with audiences, leaving participants with not just new knowledge but also actionable insights to apply with immediate effect in their business and life.
Paul's Showreel and Videos
Topics, Sessions and Talks
Ethical Influence and Persuasion
Paul Craven will explore ethical influence and persuasion, highlighting how psychology can enhance communication in sales, marketing, leadership, and team culture. He emphasises that success often hinges on our ability to encourage others to agree with constructive ideas. By applying the principles of ethical influence, attendees will learn to facilitate quicker and more frequent agreements, utilising the seven established Principles of Persuasion to foster win-win outcomes in various professional interactions.
Biases in Investment and Business
Paul Craven will explore the impact of biases in investment and business decisions. He will discuss how cognitive biases can influence judgement leading to suboptimal outcomes. Attendees will gain insights into recognising these biases and strategies to mitigate their effects, ultimately enhancing decision making processes. By the end of the session, participants will have a deeper understanding of how to navigate biases effectively in their professional lives.
Group Decision Making Around Board Tables
Paul Craven will explore the dynamics of group decision making in corporate settings. He will discuss the challenges and benefits of collaborative decision processes, highlighting how diverse perspectives can enhance outcomes. Attendees will gain insights into effective strategies for fostering productive discussions, managing conflicts, and ensuring that all voices are heard. By the end of the session, participants will learn how to improve their own decision making practices within their organisations.
Why We Recommend Booking Paul
Book Paul Craven to unlock the secrets of decision making and persuasion. His unique blend of behavioural economics, psychology, and business experience offers actionable insights to boost communication and sales skills. Discover how people make decisions and master the art and science of ethical persuasion through engaging, evidence-based strategies.
Paul's superb content, combined with captivating examples and practical exercises and his energetic, engaging and fun delivery style make for a lethal combination. He does not simply educate his audience - he inspires them.
Costas Markides, Professor of Strategy & Entrepreneurship
Professor of Strategy & Entrepreneurship, London Business School
Paul has the rare ability to both entertain and educate, making the audience question previously held assumptions.
Alex Beveridge
European Investor Institute
The best psychologists are magicians. Paul demonstrates this – with that all-too-rare mixture of erudition, wit and practical ideas.
Rory Sutherland
Vice-Chairman, Ogilvy
