James Cusack

Observer
DISC Type : ci

Chief Executive Officer at PSPA

Milton Keynes, England, United Kingdom

Overview

Dr. James Cusack is the Chief Executive of PSPA, a charity supporting people with rare neurodegenerative conditions. He previously served as CEO of Autistica, the UKs national autism research charity, leveraging his PhD from the University of Aberdeen to translate complex science into meaningful community impact and shape national policy.

James is a prominent advocate for neurodiversity and disability rights, earning a spot on the Disability Power 100 List for three consecutive years. He is passionate about participatory science, ensuring that research is co-designed with individuals who have lived experience to address their most pressing needs and improve quality of life.

Unique fact: In 2020, he became the UKs first openly autistic charity chief executive, sending a powerful message about leadership and neurodiversity.

Personality Overview

Value Driven

Assertive

Example Seeker

They are generally good communicators and can be hard to convince.  They can sound friendly and charming but can quickly change gears to become inquisitive and probing. They often ask many questions and rely heavily on information and documentation.

Topics They Care About

Neurodegenerative Disease
As CEO of PSPA, he is driving the research strategy for Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) and Corticobasal Degeneration (CBD) to improve diagnosis, treatment, and care.
Autism Research
With over a decade of experience in the field, including as CEO of Autistica, he has focused on shaping research priorities to improve health and wellbeing for autistic people.
Neurodiversity in Workplace
He champions neurodiversity employment initiatives, arguing that creating inclusive work environments benefits the entire workforce and gives companies a competitive edge.

Media Appearances

James Cusack, CEO, PSPA - MKFM Podcasts - MKFM 106.3FM - Radio Made in Milton Keynes. Featured in MKFM Podcasts (MKFM 106.3FM)

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PSPA Announce New CEO. Featured in PSPA (official website)

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PSPA - Facebook announcement of new CEO Dr James Cusack. Featured in Facebook (PSP Association)

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Work History

12-2025
Chief Executive Officer at PSPA
8-2020 - 11-2025
Chief Executive Officer at Autistica
9-2015 - 8-2020
Director of Science at Autistica
10-2012 - 9-2015
Research Fellow at University of Aberdeen
2-2011 - 8-2011
Co-investigator: Assessing educational outcomes for autism in England at University of Aberdeen

Education

2008 - 2012
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from University of Aberdeen
2004 - 2008
MA (hons) from University of Aberdeen

More Information

Social Presence :

Prographics :

Exp : 16 Location : Milton Keynes, England, United Kingdom Job Level : Leadership Designation : Chief Executive Officer at PSPA
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Insights For Selling To James

During A Call Or A Meeting

DO's

  • Help them understand the risk aspect fully while inspiring confidence
  • Help them realize that there is no personal risk in making this decision
  • Build rapport, it will come handy to handle hard questions later

DONT's

  • Don’t brush off any concerns, take all questions seriously
  • Avoid making offhand commitments
  • Don’t try to rush them into a decision, provide all necessary information first

When Cold Calling

When Writing An Email

While Negotiating & Closing

    The secret to closing fast with James is

  • Clear proof of product value matters to them, followed by others' testimonials and rapport.
  • Will you ever get a clear answer from James

  • They are practical and friendly, don't expect a clear-cut response often.

Insights For Deal Planning

    How fast (or slow) will James move?

  • They like to perform full analysis and can take time to make any decision.
  • Can James take some risk or not?

  • They systematically evaluate all decisions and are unlikely to take many risks.

You And James

Personality Compatibility


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