About John Bennett

From Entrepreneur to Mediator

John brings over 30 years of commercial experience to the mediation table – experience that wasn’t learned in classrooms or courtrooms, but forged in the real world of building and scaling businesses. This unique background sets Future Mediation apart, offering clients a mediator who truly understands the practical realities behind disputes.

John approaches conflict resolution with a practical mindset honed through decades of entrepreneurial challenges. He has shouldered the responsibility of steering a business through difficult waters, feeling the pressure of balancing stakeholder expectations, and experienced firsthand how disputes can derail even the most promising ventures.

This real-world perspective means John understands the commercial, operational, and human dimensions of disputes. His approach focuses on helping people find workable solutions that allow them to move forward constructively, whether they’re business partners needing to rebuild a working relationship or parties looking for a clean, fair resolution that lets everyone move on.

Commercial experience

John started his entrepreneurial journey whilst still at school, and has co-founded a number of companies, including the winner of the 2012 Sunday Times Fast Track 100, The Genuine Gemstone Company (now called Gemporia)

During this time he has scaled operations for growth, negotiated acquisitions and divestments, created international joint ventures and transitioned Gemporia to employee ownership.

Legally trained, but not a lawyer

John has a First Class law degree from Kings College London, and was called to the Bar in 2006 after receiving a Very Competent grade on the Bar Vocational Course, but has not practised law.

This means he has the legal knowledge to understand and discuss complex issues, but is free from the adversarial environment of legal practice.

Mediation training

John completed the civil and commercial Accredited Mediation Training course with the Society of Mediators. This course is internationally recognised, and accredited by the CMC and CIArb.

He is a member of the Society of Mediators and a Registered Mediator with the Civil Mediation Council.

Business qualifications

As well as his practical commercial experience, John have more formal business education, having completed my Executive MBA in 2022 with Quantic School of Business & Technology.

He received the ‘Honors’ classification, meaning his grade was within the top 10% of the cohort.

Ready to take the next step?

Book your free 30 minute introductory call to check if mediation is right for your dispute.