Date/Time
Date(s) - 17/04/2026 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Audience:
Faculty of Business, University of Leeds
Guest Lecture with Professor Christian Harrison
‘Leadership in a Changing World: Skills for Leading in the 21st Century’
Friday 17th April (13.00-15.00 UK time)
Online via Zoom
We are pleased to invite Professor Christian Harrison to deliver a guest lecture on behalf of the Faculty. Please join us online and register using the link above.
Summary
This lecture explores the evolving nature of leadership in an increasingly complex and uncertain global environment. It examines what leadership means in contemporary organisations and societies, highlighting how the concept has shifted from traditional hierarchical models to more adaptive, inclusive, and purpose-driven approaches. The session will discuss key leadership skills required for success in this era. Drawing on contemporary leadership research and practical examples, Professor Harrison will provide insights into how effective leaders navigate change, inspire others, and create sustainable impact. Participants will gain a clearer understanding of the capabilities required to lead effectively in the 21st century and how these skills can be developed to meet the challenges of modern leadership.
Speaker Bio
Christian Harrison is a Professor of Leadership and Enterprise at the University of Greater Manchester UK and the Director of the Centre for Leadership and Empowerment. He leads the Research and Doctoral Programmes of the Off Campus Division. He is a well-known scholar in leadership, contributing to media outlets like STV, Scotland Tonight, and the Guardian Nigeria. He has authored numerous research papers and books, including the bestselling Leadership Theory and Research: A Critical Approach to New and Existing Paradigms.
Christian chairs the Academy for African Studies and a vice chair of the British Academy of Management. He is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, a Certified Management and Business Educator, and a Fellow of the Institute of Business Administration and Knowledge Management. He serves on several editorial boards and panels, and as an external examiner for many UK universities.
An expert consultant and speaker, he has delivered leadership training to the Scottish Government Directors, NHS, SMEs, and a host of others. Professor Harrison’s accolades include an Honorary Doctor of Innovation in Leadership, 2024 Distinguished Leadership Award and multiple Excellence Awards. He is also the founder of The Leadership Mould Initiative International, championing leadership development globally.