Neurodiversity in Tech - A Conversation with James Davies

In this episode of the Inspiring Tech Leaders podcast I talk with James Davies, Managing Director for RP International across the UK, Europe, and North America, and a passionate advocate for neurodiversity as a Board Trustee at Digital Advantage.

James brings both professional insight and deeply personal experience to the table, shedding light on:

💡 His own journey and connection to neurodiversity

💡 The unique strengths neurodiverse individuals bring to tech teams

💡 Common barriers in traditional recruitment — and how to break them

💡 Practical advice for inclusive hiring, onboarding, and day-to-day support

💡 Tools and resources for building a truly inclusive culture

If you're a tech leader, hiring manager, or someone passionate about making tech more inclusive, this is a must-listen.

Tune in, get inspired, and help shape a tech industry where every mind matters.

Let’s continue the conversation…. what’s one thing your company is doing (or could do) to support neurodiverse talent?

Available on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | All major podcast platforms

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Chapters

• 0:00 Introduction
• 0:51 James' journey and connection with neurodiversity in tech
• 4:34 What unique strengths and perspectives do neurodiverse individuals bring to tech roles
• 6:18 Particular roles or tasks in tech where neurodiverse talent tends to thrive
• 7:08 Common barriers neurodiverse candidates face during the traditional tech recruitment process
• 10:11 What are the misconceptions or biases that still persist in hiring managers when it comes to neurodiversity
• 10:11 [Ad] Everyday AI: Your daily guide to grown with Generative AI
• 10:59 (Cont.) Common barriers neurodiverse candidates face during the traditional tech recruitment process
• 11:28 How can job descriptions be made more inclusive and accessible to neurodiverse applicants
• 11:59 Hiring models that work better than interviews
• 13:02 Onboarding practices that help neurodiverse new hires succeed
• 15:35 How managers can best support neurodiverse employees on a day-to-day basis
• 16:42 Organisations, resources, and tools to support neurodiverse hiring
• 19:07 How listeners can learn more and get involved in promoting neurodiversity in tech
• 20:23 Wrap-up