Myles Downey, who has coached senior business executives and leadership teams for 25 years, provided students with an insight into the Enabling Genius Project his online company, ECoach Limited, delivers. Myles also discussed his evolution into writing and entrepreneurship; questioning how he could add value outside an organisational context.

Citing recent developments in the fields of psychology, genetics and neuropsychology, Myles outlined how the Enabling Genius Project can develop a person’s potential in unison with their natural ability.

“Certain people may or may not be naturally gifted but it is not quite as simple as that,” said Myles, who worked as a tennis coach before entering the business sector.

“Sports commentators described David Beckham as being a ‘natural’ when he played football, but they failed to take into account all the hours he practised his technique.

“I am a firm believer that 10,000 hours of practice, or 10 years, in the right environment is just as important as any natural ability someone may have.”

Myles’ lecture brought to a close the Leadership Futures series for the current academic year. Speakers this year have included MK Dons FC Chairman, Pete Winkleman, and Bedford Borough Council Chief Executive, Phillip Simpkins.

Dr Gordon Mellor, Acting Executive Dean of the Business School, added: "It was a real pleasure to have Myles Downey speaking as part of the Leadership Futures series at our University.

“The Leadership Futures series is a key expression of the Business School's vision to take business education and research in imaginative new directions. The inspirational speakers in this series are all champions in their field who by example bring new contexts to our students and our practice-led vision to life.”

The Leadership Futures series provides inspirational speakers who offer insights into their work and leadership journeys and raise the aspirations and scope of University of Bedfordshire students in anticipating work after University.