Michelle Arjona
ABOUT ME
Careers and education professional with over 20 years’ experience across international finance, corporate governance, diplomacy and education. I have represented the Republic of Panama in multilateral and diplomatic settings, with a focus on science, technology, education, disability inclusion and international cooperation, including work in the UK, Latin America, USA and the Gulf region.
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My career across continents and sectors has given me a deep understanding of how institutions, labour markets and cultural contexts shape the choices people are able to make about their futures. I work in education and career development because this is where those global systems meet real human lives.
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My current focus is on mentoring and structured career development, supporting students and early-career professionals as they build clarity, confidence and direction in their learning and career paths.
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Fluent in English and Spanish, with working familiarity with Arabic (Khaliji dialect), I bring an international and intercultural dimension to my work that supports engagement across borders and educational contexts.
Experience
My career spans international investment banking, corporate governance, diplomacy and education, giving me a practical understanding of how careers unfold inside complex organisations, public institutions and global labour markets.
I began in global financial services, working in corporate actions and securities operations at JP Morgan Chase, Schroders Investment Management and Citigroup in London and New York. This work required precision, regulatory awareness and cross-border coordination, and gave me first-hand insight into how global organisations recruit, assess and progress talent.
I then moved into corporate governance and social responsibility at PIRC, working with institutional investors on how organisations are held accountable for their employment practices, governance standards and social impact. This role deepened my understanding of how corporate behaviour and shareholder influence affect workplace conditions and career trajectories.
From 2010 onwards, I undertook a series of UN-mandated advisory and diplomatic roles for the Government of Panama, alongside my later full-time appointment as Science, Technology and Education Diplomat at the Embassy of Panama in London. Across UNGA, CSW, CRPD, WHO/PAHO and COP28, I worked on disability inclusion, education, health and sustainability, seeing directly how international frameworks shape national policy and real-world opportunities.
Alongside my diplomatic and multilateral work, I have held UK-based operational leadership roles, including Deputy Manager at Centre 404 and Customer Support Manager at PTK. In parallel, I provide direct mentoring through UNFOLD, offering career guidance to students and early-career professionals focused on confidence-building, direction-setting and professional development.
Today, I bring these strands together through the development of a proprietary career and development system grounded in lived experience across finance, diplomacy and education. This work underpins how I help individuals build clarity, make informed decisions and position themselves strategically within global career systems.
For illustrative examples of my work, please see the “Key Expertise” section below.
Independent Career Development Practitioner – Panama / London
Dec 2024 – Present
Designing and developing a proprietary career and development system grounded in lived experience across global finance, diplomacy and education. Supporting individuals navigating career transitions, higher-education pathways and complex international labour markets.
Mentor – Unfold, London
June 2024 – Present
Providing mentoring and career guidance to students and early-career professionals, supporting confidence, direction-setting and professional development.
Science, Technology and Education Diplomat – Embassy of Panama, London
Nov 2020 – Dec 2024
Led education, skills and international cooperation initiatives between Panama and the United Kingdom. Represented Panama at international forums including UN COP28, CRPD and multilateral education and science platforms.
Deputy Manager – Centre 404, London
Sep 2018 – Nov 2020
Operational leadership within a community and disability organisation, overseeing service delivery, staff coordination and client engagement.
Customer Support Manager – PTK, London
Aug 2017 – Jul 2018
Managed service delivery, staff supervision and organisational operations within a UK support organisation.
Process Improvement Lead – SOS Decor, Panama
Jan 2017 – Aug 2017
Led operational and process improvement projects in a growing commercial organisation.
Assistive Technology Manager – UNE Foundation, Panama
Jul 2013 – Jan 2017
Managed assistive technology programmes supporting people with disabilities through access to technology, training and inclusion initiatives.
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Governance Systems Lead – PIRC Ltd, London
Jul 2011 – Jul 2013
Worked with institutional investors on corporate governance, corporate social responsibility and shareholder engagement.
Project Manager – UNE Foundation, London (Remote)
Mar 2011 – Jul 2011
Managed remote projects focused on disability inclusion and assistive technology deployment.
UN & Multilateral Adviser – Government of Panama
March 2010 – May 2024
Time-bound UN advisory and diplomatic roles for Panama (2010–2024) across UNGA, CSW, CRPD, WHO/PAHO and COP28 on disability, health and inclusion.
Operations Manager – IPM Studios Corp, Panama
June 2009 – March 2011
Managed operations for a media and branding agency serving government, business and non-profit clients.
International Corporate Actions Specialist – Citigroup (London & New York)
Dec 2005 – May 2009
Managed corporate actions processing, compliance and cross-border securities operations.
General Manager – PI & J Designs Corp, Panama
Feb 2004 – Nov 2005
Led a web and print advertising and graphic design agency.
Senior Corporate Actions Specialist – Schroders Investment Management, London
Aug 1999 – Jan 2004
Operational leadership for international investment portfolios and securities processing.
Undergraduate Student – Bournemouth University, UK
Sept 1996 – July 1999
Full-time undergraduate study in BSc (Hons) Applied Psychology and Computing, focusing on how human cognition, behaviour and social systems interact with technology.
PR Officer – The Body Shop HQ, Madrid
Jan 1996 – Aug 1996
Public relations and communications for the Spanish head office, working bilingually in English and Spanish across internal and external stakeholders.
Corporate Actions Specialist – JP Morgan Chase, Bournemouth, UK
Jan 1993 – Dec 1995
Worked in Global Securities Services, processing and managing corporate actions.
Education & Professional Development
My academic foundation is in Applied Psychology and Computing, with a BSc (Hons) from Bournemouth University, where I studied how human cognition, behaviour and social systems interact with technology in the design of effective and usable digital environments. This included Human–Computer Interaction, cognitive and social psychology, research methods, statistical analysis, artificial intelligence and information systems.
Alongside my degree, I have completed a set of internationally recognised professional certifications focused on career development, data, process improvement and inclusive practice, which underpin my work in education and mentoring.
These include:
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Career Coach and Navigator – International Coaching Federation (ICF) accredited (Goodwill Industries International, 2024)
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Six Sigma White Belt – Continuous Process Improvement (CSSC / Aveta Business Institute, 2020)
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Data Analysis & Interpretation (Wesleyan University, 2016)
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Equality & Diversity (NCFE CACHE, 2019)
Together, these qualifications support a practice that combines psychology, data literacy, systems thinking and coaching — the same blend required to guide students navigating complex academic and professional environments.
I also maintain an active commitment to international engagement and intercultural competence, including working familiarity with Arabic (Khaliji dialect), developed through self-directed study alongside my diplomatic and Gulf-region work.
2024 Coaching
Career Coach and Navigator Professional Certificate
Goodwill Industries International on Coursera
International Coaching Federation (ICF) accredited Professional Certificate on human-centred approach to career coaching, including Career Development theories, models, and tools.
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​Goodwill Industries International is North America’s leading nonprofit provider of education, training, and career services for people with disadvantages, such as welfare dependency, homelessness, and lack of education or work experience, as well as those with physical, mental and emotional disabilities. In 2020, local Goodwills collectively provided employment and training services to almost 22 million individuals.
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2020 Robotic Process Automation (RPA)
Lifecycle, Implementing RPA with Cognitive Automation and Analytics
Automation Anywhere on Coursera
The course provided the relevant skills to create, manage, and monitor software bots using RPA tools from Automation Anywhere, how to train a bot to perform data extraction using the cognitive tool from Automation Anywhere and analyse the bot for operational and business insights using the Automation Anywhere analytics programme.
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2020 Process Improvement
Continuous Process Improvement - White Belt
Council for Six Sigma Certification and Aveta Business Institute
A Council for Six Sigma Certification (CSSC) Certified Six Sigma White Belt demonstrates that an individual has been provided, and has demonstrated an understanding of the most relevant concepts of the Six Sigma Methodology.
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August 2019 Lean Management
Lean Organisation Management Techniques
NCFE CACHE
The completion of this programme demonstrates the ability for individuals to refer to and implement Lean Organisation Techniques in Business, Business Improvement Tools and Techniques and Working in Business Teams.
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July 2019 EDI
Equality and Diversity
NCFE CACHE
The completion of this programme demonstrates the ability for individuals to refer to and implement concepts such as Equality and Diversity in Society, Equality and Diversity in the Community and Equality and Diversity in the Workplace.
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August 2017 Maths
Functional Skills Level 2 in Maths
City & Guilds
The course led to the qualification (equivalent to level 4 GCSEs in Maths) that demonstrates both mathematical skills at the appropriate level and the ability to apply mathematical thinking effectively to solve problems successfully in the workplace and in other real life situations.​
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2016 Data Analytics
Data Analysis and Interpretation Specialisation
Wesleyan University on Coursera
The course provided the elements to access and manage data using both Python and SAS programming language, explore patterns and associations among variables, and use machine learning methods to develop predictive algorithms. Additionally, the course culminated with a hands-on project work that demonstrated the ability to apply all of these methods to real-world situations.
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Degree
BSc (Hons) Applied Psychology & Computing
Bournemouth University, UK
The Applied Psychology and Computing degree (Design, Engineering and Computing School) examined the interaction of computing and psychological factors in the development of usable and acceptable computer systems.
The prime concern of the course was with the inter-relationship of the disciplines of psychology and computing, and their contribution to the design of effective systems, exploring the complex nature of the problems posed by such systems, and the methods and techniques used to solve them.
Some of the subjects studied included: Cognitive Psychology & Biopsychology, Systems Psychology, Social Psychology & Individual Differences, Human Computer Interaction (HCI), Experimental Design & Statistical Analysis, Interface Design & Implementation, Research Methods, Information Systems, Knowledge Based Systems (Artificial Intelligence), Imagery & Cognition, Artificial Neural Networks, Directions in HCI, Computer Visualisation, and Internet Application Development.​​​​​​
Key Expertise
My expertise draws on senior roles across international finance, corporate governance, diplomacy and education, enabling me to work across organisational, policy and learning environments with confidence and precision.
I bring particular strength in international education, policy engagement and institutional collaboration, developed through my work as Science, Technology and Education Diplomat for the Government of Panama and through UN-mandated roles across UNGA, CSW, CRPD, WHO/PAHO and COP28. This includes experience of representing government at multilateral forums, supporting policy development, and building cross-border partnerships in education, inclusion and sustainability.
I have extensive experience in programme design, digital systems and operational improvement, including:
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developing scholarship and international-mobility frameworks
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building digital education platforms and content
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leading process automation and governance systems at PIRC Ltd and in the financial sector
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improving service delivery and organisational workflows in education and support organisations
My background in global financial services (JP Morgan, Schroders, Citigroup) brings strong analytical, data and risk-management capability, alongside an understanding of how large institutions assess talent, manage performance and operate internal labour markets.
Alongside this, I bring mentoring and career-development expertise through my work with UNFOLD and my wider education leadership roles, supporting students and early-career professionals to build clarity, confidence and strategic direction in complex professional environments.
Fluent in English and Spanish, with working familiarity with Arabic (Khaliji dialect), I am able to operate effectively in multilingual, multicultural and international institutional settings.
​International Diplomatic Impact
• Played a pivotal role in strengthening Panama’s diplomatic presence in Science, Technology, and Education, particularly between Panama and the UK, with emerging connections in the Gulf, including the UAE.
• Spearheaded Panama’s first-ever participation at the Education World Forum (London, 2022), showcasing Panama’s innovation in education on the global stage.
• Received strong endorsements from Ambassador Natalia Royo and international collaborators, recognising diplomatic leadership, cross-sector partnership building, and transformative mentorship.
• Leveraged cross-cultural communication skills — including basic Arabic (Khaliji dialect familiarity) — to foster international collaborations aligned with Panama’s educational and technological advancement goals.
• Managed a high-level UN initiative compiling an international information resource, liaising across Latin America and launching the initiative at a diplomatic event attended by presidents and dignitaries, demonstrating project management and international coordination skills.
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Programme Design and Digital Visibility
• Created a manual connecting Panamanians to 260+ scholarships, expanding reach through tailored social media and learning tools.
• Built this scholarship framework through extensive liaison with educational institutions, government agencies, and private sector stakeholders, ensuring multi-sectoral alignment and impact.
• Facilitated the establishment of a UK-Panama partnership that launched Challenges Abroad in Panama, mobilising 300+ UK students for intercultural exchange and youth development.
• Led a website revamp, launching the first Education section to improve digital access and showcase solutions-focused educational initiatives.
• Led automation of key business systems at PIRC Ltd (UK), including corporate governance models and CSR profiling, applying quantitative methods and managing post-implementation change, strengthening system efficiency and reporting accuracy.
• Applied process improvement and system optimisation expertise from the finance sector, including reengineering the remittance process at Schroders Investment Management, enhancing data flows, developing IT procedures, and training teams on corporate actions workflow and UK market stock lending web applications.
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Coaching and Mentoring for Career and Personal Growth
• Provided one-on-one mentoring through Unfold’s Volunteer Programme, empowering young adults with skills to navigate academic, personal, and career challenges.
• Designed coaching-informed programmes to improve confidence, critical thinking, and goal achievement.
Academic Guidance and Transition Support
• Guided students through vocational pathways and global scholarships, enabling independent progression.
• Mentored students and young professionals to achieve tangible milestones.
Educational Content Design and Youth Empowerment
• Designed inclusive materials for UK primary schools (aligned with National Curriculum) to build confidence and engagement.
• Advocated bilingualism in Panama, promoting English as a gateway to global opportunity.
Communication and Emotional Intelligence
• Presented at global forums (Education World Forum, COP28, UN conferences), demonstrating cultural sensitivity and strong communication skills in high-stakes, international settings.
• Created mentoring spaces fostering active listening, vulnerability, and personal growth.
Strategic Learning and Development
• Designed and implemented initiatives focused on skill-building, learning engagement, and personal development, promoting lifelong learning habits among students and young adults.
• Integrated coaching-informed educational tools and assistive technologies to promote inclusive learning environments and foster lifelong learning mindsets among diverse student groups.
My work is focused on strengthening international engagement through education, policy and institutional collaboration. Across diplomatic, academic and professional settings, I contribute by building partnerships, supporting learning and enabling cross-border cooperation.
United Nations
Served in a series of time-bound UN-mandated advisory and diplomatic appointments for the Government of Panama between 2010 and 2024, representing the country across disability rights, health, gender equality, climate policy and inclusive development at UN and UN-agency forums.
May 2024 UN CRPD
UNITED KINGDOM - Diplomat representing the Republic of Panama at the High Level Meeting on "Disability Rights: Advancing the Agenda". An event in the lead up to the 20th Anniversary of the 2006 adoption of the CRPD (Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities), as well as the 5-year review of the United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy.
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Nov-Dec 2023 UN CCS
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - Diplomat representing the Republic of Panama at the United Nations Climate Change Conference 28, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
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November 2016 UNESCO
COSTA RICA - Regional Conference on "ICTs (Information and Communications Technologies) and communication for people with disabilities in Central America". A member of a specialised team representing the Republic of Panama
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June 2014 COSP7, UN
NEW YORK - "7th session of the Conference of States Parties to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)". A member of a specialised team to act as an Adviser representing the Republic of Panama during the COSP7 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
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March 2014 CSW58, UN
NEW YORK - "The Commission on the Status of Women (CSW or UNCSW)", a functional commission of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), one of the main UN organs within the United Nations. Headhunted by the National Secretariat on Disability (SENADIS) and the National Institute for Women (INAMU) of the Republic of Panama as one of the members of a specialised team of four to act as an Adviser representing the Republic of Panama during the CSW58 (the fifty-eighth session of the Commission on the Status of Women) at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
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September 2013 68th UN General Assembly, UN
NEW YORK - "The General Assembly (UNGA)", the main deliberative, policymaking and representative organ of the United Nations). A member of a specialised team of four to act as an Adviser representing the Republic of Panama at the HLDM (High Level Development Meeting) on Disability and Development for the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the UN MDGs agenda (Millennium Development Goals) during the 68th UN General Assembly in New York.
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March & September 2010 World Health Organisation
WASHINGTON, D.C. - headhunted to undertake two UN consultancy roles including the project management and strategic planning support of an initiative to compile an information resource for use internationally, as well as working group support on the approval of Resolution CD50.R8 “Health and Human Rights” during the celebration of PAHO 50th Directing Council at the HQ.​​​​​
