Jonathan Benton

MA graduate Jonathan Benton talks about his experience of studying a Masters in Corruption and Governance.

What made you apply to Sussex?

It was the only course covering exactly what I wanted to do in respect of looking at corruption from an academic perspective.

I have worked for many years in the anti-corruption space and was head of the UK’s International Corruption Unit. There is so much more to tackling corruption than enforcement and the course offered me the opportunity to look into everything from causes of corruption through to the flaws in how the international architecture works and everything in between. 

What were your first impressions of Sussex?

Very receptive to people like me who worked full-time.  

What was your standout memory of your time on the course?

I guess the field trip to Switzerland. Sitting in the offices of major commodity trader listening to a rather bullish chief compliance officer defend the company and having the opportunity to ask questions and discuss the true complexity of business and its flaws.

What are you doing now?

During the course I was a senior police officer investigating grand corruption, I now run a private company representing countries who wish to take action to recover the proceeds of corruption hidden across the globe. I also work with WorldBank Stolen Asset Recovery Initiative and am helping countries from Mongolia to Moldova and many places in between with the structures, laws, policy and training to help tackle corruption.

What skills did you develop at Sussex which have helped you in your career?

For me it was more broadening my knowledge base, particularly the academic side. My network grew too, I’ve made some lifelong friends.