Meet Adrian Jolly, Managing Director of A Jolly Consulting

In this new series, we introduce the people behind AJC. We’re starting with our Managing Director and founder, Adrian Jolly, and will be featuring members of the wider team in the weeks ahead.

I’m Adrian Jolly, the Managing Director and founder of A Jolly Consulting (AJC). I started AJC in 2019 to create a new breed of consulting firm that focuses on delivering genuine value to clients. After many years in the industry, I saw the need for a consultancy that combined experience, integrity and a practical approach, one that truly understands the growing regulatory requirements and threats businesses face today.

At AJC, we hand-pick our specialists based on their skill sets and real-world understanding. Each consultant we work with knows what the job means, why it matters and how to deliver results that make a difference. My goal has always been to build a company that is not just knowledgeable but approachable, one that clients trust to support them through both challenges and growth.

Why I Started A Jolly Consulting

AJC was created to challenge the idea that consultancy has to be complex, expensive or detached from reality. Too often, businesses are given advice that looks good on paper but does not work in practice. I wanted to build a consultancy that is grounded in real-world experience and focused on solutions that organisations can actually implement.

That philosophy continues to shape how we work today. We are professional, transparent and direct, and we take pride in being clear about what matters, what does not, and where organisations should focus their efforts.

My Role at AJC

As Managing Director, I guide and steer the organisation to encourage growth and help it reach its full potential. My focus is on supporting both our clients and our team, ensuring they have the right tools, training and confidence to achieve their goals.

I stay actively involved in our work, providing oversight, guidance and challenge to ensure we consistently meet the standards our clients expect. Whether that means helping shape strategy, reviewing delivery, or mentoring colleagues, my priority is long-term impact rather than short-term fixes.

How We Work With Our Clients

We provide experienced consultants who understand their roles, can deliver against clear objectives and add genuine value from day one. Our approach is pragmatic and cost-effective, making us a more palatable choice than many traditional consultancies.

What truly sets AJC apart is how we work with clients. We build strong relationships through open, honest and direct communication. We avoid unnecessary jargon and focus on practical advice that helps organisations make informed decisions. Our clients know they can rely on us for straightforward guidance and ongoing support.

My Background in Risk and Resilience

I completed a degree at Coventry University in International Disasters Engineering and Management, which means I could, in theory, help manage an earthquake, shock area or volcano. Although I have yet to face one professionally, the degree gave me a strong grounding in crisis management, resilience and leadership, all of which are central to the work we do today.

I spent 13 years at my previous company, starting in ISO management before moving into responsibility for Risk, Business Continuity and Data Protection. This experience gave me a deep understanding of how organisations operate under pressure and how to strengthen them from within. I later moved into a cyber-focused role, expanding my knowledge of data protection and security, before establishing AJC to bring these disciplines together under one roof.

A Bit More About Me

Outside of work, I am hoping to improve my golf handicap index, so I do not embarrass myself too much in front of our clients at our annual golf event, which raises funds for The Wilderness Foundation. It is a great day for a great cause, even if my swing does not always go according to plan.

That said, I have also been tornado chasing and climbed three active volcanoes, so I am no stranger to risky situations, even if a bad round of golf can sometimes feel just as dangerous. Those experiences have given me a deeper appreciation for managing risk in unpredictable environments.

I am also a strong believer in continuous learning. Risk, governance, compliance, cyber and fraud are constantly evolving, and staying informed and adaptable is essential, both in how I lead and how AJC supports its clients.

Let’s Talk

At AJC, we work across risk, governance, compliance, cyber and fraud to help organisations manage complexity with confidence. If you are looking for consultants who understand your business, communicate clearly and deliver practical advice you can act on, we would be happy to talk.

Get in touch to find out how AJC can support your organisation.