Richard Robinson

Richard Robinson is a Professor in the Leadership and Human Resource Management Department at Northumbria University, holding a Vice Chancellor Fellowship. Previously at The University of Queensland, he transitioned from an 18-year career as a chef. His research focuses on service work, employment contexts, and fair labor practices across tourism, hospitality, and welfare sectors. He explores themes like mental health, skills training, and sustainable work environments. Robinson has authored over 138 publications, leading in areas such as workforce resilience, gig economy challenges, and commensality in commercial settings. His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals on quality education and decent work.

Education: PhD in Tourism (University of Queensland, 2011), Advanced Diploma in International Hotel Management (2004), BA in Humanities (Griffith University, 1998).

Research Interests:

• Service Work and Employment Dynamics
• Occupational Well-being and Mental Health
• Sustainable Workforce Development
• Global South Labor Practices
• Culinary Professional Attrition

Key Contributions: His 2025 work on frontline worker well-being and 2024 analysis of toxic kitchen environments highlight systemic labor issues. He co-edited Unpacking Hospitality Work Realities (2025) and contributes to policy reforms via the Global Hospitality Research Alliance. Awards include national teaching excellence recognitions for curriculum innovation.

Advisory Roles: Holds leadership positions in higher education research portfolios and an international charity. Advises governments and NGOs on labor policies, most recently contributing to Queensland's tourism workforce recovery strategy.

Labs/Teams: Leads Northumbria's Hospitality Work and Employment Research Group, collaborating globally on projects funded by UN agencies, industry bodies, and governmental grants.