Michael Foley

Michael Foley is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Management & Organizations at the Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University (2023–present), previously serving as Adjunct Lecturer there from 2019–2023. He holds an MBA from Kellogg (2019), MA in Human Development from St. Mary’s University (2002), and BS in Engineering from University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (1985). His expertise spans leadership development, communications training, and presentation skills, informed by over 29 years in corporate training and consulting.

Research interests focus on effective communication strategies, audience engagement, and executive presence. Notable articles include works on audience connection and presentation mastery published in Kellogg Insight and Harvard Business Review. Awards include the Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) designation (2014).

Founder of Clarity Central® (1996–present), he trains professionals across diverse industries. Beyond academia, he is a licensed USCG Captain leading life/career renewal sailing expeditions through Captain Mike Sailing Adventures. His teaching emphasizes actionable skills for executive success, blending theory with real-world application.