Jamie Plaatjes (PhD)

My career began in small business support, where I developed a practical grounding in entrepreneurship and operations. While pursuing my Master's in Political Economy at the University of the Witwatersrand, I transitioned into financial advisory, deepening my understanding of markets, risk, and economic systems. I subsequently spent over three years in quantitative market research, building strong analytical expertise and experience translating data into strategic insight.

Over the past three years, my work has increasingly focused on sustainability and the circular economy, progressing from Research Assistant to Lecturer and Circular Economy Industry Expert, contributing to both academic scholarship and industry practice. I am part of a team that designs and delivers leading Circular Economy and Sustainability Executive Education programmes, where I have helped develop course content and facilitate learning for senior professionals. In 2024 and 2025, I also lectured and assisted in undergraduate course delivery, supporting curriculum development and student engagement.

I was awarded my PhD in Management from the University of Exeter in the UK, within the School of Environment, and my research has been published in the Journal of Innovation Management and the Elgar Encyclopedia of Innovation Management. My doctoral research strengthens my academic and industry engagement at the intersection of sustainability, political economy, and organisational practice.

Office Manager at Real Life Rooms (2017-01 – 2020-12)

• Managing the recording of interviews for Market Research groups
• Oversaw catering needs for clients & respondents

Research Assistant and Lecturer at University of Exeter (2022-01 – Present)

• Lecturer in Sustainability, Circular Economy & Business Strategy
• Research Assistant for the department in Sustainable Futures: qualitative literature reviews, white paper & light touch reports for companies

Industry Expert & Course Designer at University of Exeter (2022-01 – Present)

• Aided in designing Executive Education in the Circular Economy & Sustainable Business
• Facilitating Executive Education courses

Bachelors in Economics & Politics – University of the Witwatersrand (2012-01 – 2014-12)

Honours in Economics & Politics – University of the Witwatersrand (2015-01 – 2015-12)

Masters in Politics – University of the Witwatersrand (2016-01 – 2017-12)

PhD in Management Studies – University of Exeter (2022-01)