Chris O'Leary

Dr Chris O'Leary is a Senior Lecturer at Manchester Metropolitan University, specializing in public policy and homelessness. He holds a PhD in Public Policy from King’s College London (2015), an MSc from Queen Mary, University of London (2010), and a BA in Law and Politics from Durham University (1991). His research focuses on public sector reform, homelessness policy, and the political economy of public policy. He has led multiple projects on homelessness interventions, policy termination, and public service motivation theory, collaborating with organizations like the Adam Smith Institute and the Institute for Economic Affairs. Dr O’Leary teaches modules on public administration, housing policy, and political science, emphasizing critical evaluation and problem-based learning. He supervises two PhD students researching homelessness and has contributed to policy debates through publications and media engagements. Previously, he held roles as a housing authority chair and non-executive director in housing and regeneration sectors. His work bridges academic research with practical policy solutions, aiming to inform evidence-based decision-making.

• Education:
  • PhD in Public Policy, King’s College London (2015)
  • MSc in Public Policy, Queen Mary, University of London (2010)
  • BA in Law and Politics, Durham University (1991)
• Research Interests:
  • Public policy design and implementation
  • Homelessness and housing policy
  • Policy termination and failure analysis
  • Public service motivation theory
  • Rational choice theory in public administration

Dr O’Leary’s research highlights the intersection of evidence-based policy with complex adaptive systems, emphasizing the role of bounded rationality in decision-making. His work on homelessness interventions has been featured in Parliament and media outlets like the Financial Times. He actively reviews grants for the ESRC and Marsden Fund, and serves on the Political Studies Association’s Social Policy and Politics group. His teaching integrates case studies on homelessness, gentrification, and welfare reform, fostering critical thinking among students.

His articles explore topics such as psychosocial interventions for homelessness, social impact bonds, and welfare reform critiques, reflecting his commitment to addressing systemic challenges in public policy. Dr O’Leary’s career demonstrates a dedication to translating academic insights into actionable policies for societal benefit.