Dr Richard Longman

Professional biography

My expertise lies in alternative theories and practices of organising. I am interested both in alternative ways of organising and the possibilities of what we can learn from organising alternative things. This shapes a research and teaching agenda that is broadly dissatisfied with the status quo and seeks to nourish more equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisations.

I bring an eclectic set of experiences to academia after beginning my career in professional music. I revel in the experiences I gained working alongside musicians, and this informs my own practice and helps me translate the work done in the context of a triple-accredited business school into novel, creative settings.

Research interests

My research interests revolve around themes of organising and alternatives. I am interested, conceptually, in ideas of truth and ignorance and how they shape organisational responses to polycrises – interconnected and simultaneous global crises impacting societies and economies. My empirical work is often situated within creative settings – such as opera singers and orchestral conductors – where I explore dynamics of inclusion and collective action.

I disseminate my findings through publications in academic journals (such as Work, Employment and Society, Management Learning, Organization, and puntOorg) as well as books. In tandem with my academic publications, I engage wider audiences through blogs and podcasts to explore questions about social justice, thereby fulfilling my commitment to the transformational potential of learning and teaching in innovative ways.

I am happy to receive enquiries about supervision at the doctoral level in areas aligned with my research interests.

Teaching interests

My own experiences of learning range from the most traditional settings to more inclusive and informal spaces. These experiences equip me with a unique perspective which I bring into my teaching and mentorship roles. I am the MBA Director at The Open University, leading our triple-accredited Global Online MBA programme.

I have extensive experience in developing and sharing innovative approaches to teaching and learning – including online, hybrid, and in-person formats. I hold a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Cambridge and a Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Professional Practice. I am also a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

External collaborations

I am Co-Editor-in-Chief of Qualitative Research in Organizations and Management: An International Journal. I share this role with Paulina Segarra (Universidad Anáhuac, Mexico), which cements a key international collaboration and signals my commitment to supporting critical qualitative research around the globe.

I am also an Associate Editor of Culture and Organization. I am a past chair of the Critical Management Studies Division (Academy of Management) and a Fellow of The Royal Society of Arts.