Jean began her career in journalism working on local newspapers in London. She did a degree in economics and history as a mature student at the University of North London from 1982-1985 and a masters degree in social policy.

After leaving college Jean provided professional support for a GLC-funded newspaper written by and for homeless people. Funding was lost when the GLC was abolished and so Jean moved to a post in the information department at the college lecturers’ union Natfhe.

She joined Nursing Standard as a reporter in 1989 and became editor in 1999.

In 2008, Jean became Editorial Director with overall responsibility for the company’s specialist titles including Nursing Standard.