THRIVE mentors

Michael Hartleben studied Law at the University of Reading and went on to qualify to practice law in New York and Russia. He has worked in private practice and legal departments in several large organisations and specialises in international corporate transactions, commercial contracts, and disputes.

Read Michael's story.

Sarah Williamson is a Research Scientist at the University of Hawaii. She studied MMath at the University of Reading, and has previously worked for Network Rail before returning to the University to complete an MSc in Meteorology. She worked for the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) before moving to Hawaii.

Read more about Sarah's partnership.

Kimberley Bartholomew became a science documentary producer after studying for her BSc Meteorology and completing her PhD Atmosphere, Oceans and Climate. She has worked on a variety of projects from genetics to cosmology.

Read Kimberley's story.

Zayd Maniar is an International Liaison and Audit and Assurance Partner with Crowe Horwath based in United Arab Emirates. After studying economics at the University of Reading, he became a chartered accountant and registered auditor.

Read Zayd's story.

Kate studied History as an undergraduate at the University of Reading. She is now studying part-time for a PhD in History with us, and works as Private Secretary to the Senior Deputy Speaker in the House of Lords.

Find out more about Kate's experience.

Philip studied Modern History and International Relations at the University of Reading before joining Thames Valley Police (TVP). He has worked for TVP for 27 years in several departments and is currently a Detective Chief Inspector.

Read Philip's story.

Steve Morris graduated with a history degree from Reading and started his career in the public sector. He now works in brand management within the pharmaceutical industry and maintains his interest in history in his spare time.

Read Steve's story.

After working as a telephone fundraiser after graduating, Zoe Whitten now works as a Service Improvement Project Manager for Learning Disabilities at Autism Services with the NHS.

Find out more about Zoe's advice.

Steve Smith is a technology entrepreneur and software developer based in Reading. After creating a Reading student mobile app whilst studying and working in London at a start-up, Steve went on to co-found his own company, Airbyte, with a friend and colleague he met at Reading.

Read Steve's mentoring profile.

Bernard Padden, a supporter of the University of Reading, has a vast career in acting and scriptwriting. Now based in Manchester, Bernard has been the scriptwriter for popular daytime BBC Series Doctors and gone on to be a lecturer teaching scriptwriting in both Salford and Stoke University.

Read Bernard's story.