Karen graduated from Aberdeen University in 1973 with an MA Honours in Public International Law and International Relations. Karen also has a BA Honours in Psychotherapy & Counselling from the Metanoia Institute in London.

She began her career in Human Resources and Industrial Relations working in the oil and chemical sectors. She later moved into consulting and her professional expertise lies in the areas of executive coaching, change management, performance management, leadership development and executive remuneration with particular emphasis on the financial services sector.

In 2000 Karen founded Potential Unlimited, a Change Management and Executive Coaching Consultancy. She lives in London.