David Atkinson

Dr. David Atkinson is a part-time Lecturer in Business and Management at York Business School, York St John University. His academic background includes a PhD in Critical Management Studies (Lancaster University Management School, 2006), for which he won international awards. He combines military experience (ex-Royal Air Force Communications Engineering Officer) with serial entrepreneurship across multiple sectors. His research focuses on socio-economic leadership, applying quantum social theory and negative dialectics to reimagine capitalist work frameworks. He actively supports autistic students through specialized study skills coaching and runs a company providing enterprise mentorship for neurodivergent employees.

• Professional Affiliations: Fellow of the HEA, Fellow of the Institute of Engineering and Technology, Fellow of the RSA
• Current Roles: Member of York Local Enterprise Partnership’s Business Engagement Forum

Research interests include postcapitalist work aesthetics, ethical leadership, and applying autistic cognitive styles to organizational critique. Recent publications explore quantum socio-economic systems and the future of work in VUCA environments. Awards include top honors for doctoral research in management studies. Engages in policy work via submissions to UK Parliament and entrepreneurship education inquiries.