About
Robert A. Burgelman is The Edmund W. Littlefield Professor of Management at Stanford Graduate School of Business, where he has taught since 1981. He holds honorary doctorates from Copenhagen Business School (2003) and the University of St. Gallen (2017), and has served as Executive Director of the Stanford Executive Program (1996–2015). His research focuses on strategic management, corporate innovation, and organizational evolution, with notable contributions to understanding strategy-making processes in firms.
Educations:
- PhD in Management of Organizations, Columbia University (1980)
- MPhil and MA in Sociology and Management, Columbia University (1978)
- Licentiate in Applied Economics, Antwerp University (1969)
Research Interests: Burgelman’s work examines how firms adapt through strategic processes, including internal corporate venturing, strategic dynamics, and the role of leadership in innovation. He has authored seminal books such as *Inside Corporate Innovation* (1986), *Strategy is Destiny* (2002), and *Strategy-Making and Organizational Evolution* (2023). His research emphasizes the interplay between strategy, organizational structure, and long-term survival.
Awards:
- James and Doris McNamara Faculty Fellow (2023–2024)
- Fellow of the Strategic Management Society and Academy of Management
- Leadership in Technology Award (2017)
- Emeritus Professor at Stanford University
Teaching and Impact: Burgelman has taught executive programs globally and authored over 200 case studies, including analyses of Intel, HP, and Disney. His work bridges theory and practice, influencing corporate strategy and innovation in industries like technology, healthcare, and media.
