Richard Bolden

Professor Richard Bolden is a Professor of Leadership and Management at the Bristol Business School, University of the West of England (UWE), where he also directs the Bristol Leadership and Change Centre. His career includes over a decade at the University of Exeter Business School and experience as a consultant, research psychologist, and software developer. He holds a PhD, MA, and BSc.

His research focuses on distributed leadership, leadership development in complex systems, and cross-sector partnerships. Key areas include leadership in higher education, healthcare, and public services, with emphasis on paradoxes, complexity, and inclusion. He has published extensively, including a 2023 second edition of Exploring Leadership (Oxford University Press) and serves as Associate Editor of the Leadership journal.

Prof. Bolden leads leadership modules for UWE's EMBA and clinical practitioner programs. His funded projects involve organizations like the NHS Leadership Academy and Singapore Civil Service College. Awards include Fellowship with the International Leadership Association.

His work bridges academic theory and practical application, addressing systemic challenges through collaborative, inclusive leadership frameworks. Current interests include post-pandemic academic leadership and the 'great resignation' impact.