John Ford

John Ford is a seasoned workplace mediator and soft-skills trainer with over 30 years of experience in conflict resolution. Beginning his career as a human rights attorney in Namibia, he transitioned to the San Francisco Bay Area in 1996, focusing on workplace mediation and training. John is the founder of John Ford and Associates, a firm dedicated to helping organizations manage workplace conflict through mediation, training, and coaching services.
He is the creator of The Empathy Set, a tool comprising cards designed to identify feelings and needs, promoting emotional intelligence and relational harmony. This tool has been adapted into The Empathy Set App, extending its accessibility and impact.
John teaches negotiation and mediation at UC Law SF (formerly UC Hastings) and has authored "Peace at Work: The HR Manager’s Guide to Workplace Mediation," a comprehensive resource for HR professionals.
His work is deeply influenced by the principles of Nonviolent Communication, aiming to foster empathy and understanding in both personal and professional settings.