Professor Christian Harrison has reached a milestone that is inspiring scholars across Africa and beyond. The Nigerian-born academic has been elected as the next Chair of the British Academy of Management (BAM), becoming the first Black person to lead the organization in its 40-year history.
The appointment is more than a personal achievement. It marks a turning point for one of the United Kingdom’s most respected management organizations. Harrison’s election also highlights the growing influence of African scholars on the global academic stage.
He will officially begin his term in January 2027. At that point, he will become only the 19th Chair in the Academy’s history.
Professor Christian Harrison Breaks a Historic Barrier at the British Academy of Management
Harrison currently serves as Director of the Centre for Leadership and Empowerment at the University of Greater Manchester. He is also Professor of Leadership and Enterprise at the university.
His election makes him the first Black leader of the British Academy of Management since the organization was founded four decades ago. The Academy supports thousands of researchers, educators, doctoral students, and professionals working in management across the UK and internationally.
The achievement has been widely praised as an important moment for diversity in higher education. It also reflects the growing recognition of African leadership in global academic institutions.
Christian Harrison’s Leadership Journey Within BAM
Harrison did not reach the Academy’s highest office overnight. He has been an active member of BAM for more than 14 years. During that time, he held several leadership positions that helped shape the organization’s growth.
He currently serves as Co-Vice Chair of Communities. In that role, he helped expand Special Interest Groups, conference tracks, and scholarly communities. His work also strengthened member engagement and increased professional development opportunities.
Earlier, Harrison chaired the Leadership and Leadership Development Special Interest Group. Under his leadership, it became one of the Academy’s largest and most active communities. He also co-founded BAM’s African Studies Track, creating a stronger platform for African research within management studies.
Nigerian Scholar Reflects on a Historic Appointment
Following the announcement, Harrison described the election as both an honor and a major responsibility. He thanked Academy members for trusting him with the leadership role.
“I am deeply honoured and humbled to have been elected Chair of the British Academy of Management. BAM has been my academic home for over fourteen years, and throughout that time I have been privileged to work alongside exceptional colleagues who are passionate about advancing management research, education, and practice.”
He also added:
“I would like to sincerely thank the BAM community for the trust and confidence they have placed in me. This election is a privilege that I do not take lightly, and I am committed to serving our members with integrity, purpose, and collaboration.”
His comments reflected both gratitude and a clear commitment to strengthening the Academy during his leadership.
Christian Harrison Honors His Nigerian Roots While Inspiring Future Scholars
Although Harrison now works in the United Kingdom, he remains deeply connected to his Nigerian beginnings. He said his journey proves that excellence can cross borders and create opportunities around the world.
“As someone whose academic journey began in Nigeria, this appointment is particularly meaningful. I hope it demonstrates that excellence, commitment, and service know no boundaries and that our learned societies are strengthened when they reflect the diversity of the communities they serve.”
He also expressed hope that his appointment would encourage scholars from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue leadership roles in academia. His story offers a powerful reminder that representation matters at every level of higher education.
For many young Africans, Harrison’s success shows that world-class leadership can begin anywhere with dedication, hard work, and vision.
Vision for the Future of the British Academy of Management
Harrison has already outlined ambitious priorities for his upcoming term. He plans to strengthen collaboration across the Academy while expanding international partnerships.
He also wants to support researchers throughout every stage of their careers. At the same time, he intends to embed equity, diversity, and inclusion more deeply across the organization.
Beyond that, Harrison hopes to promote research that addresses today’s biggest global challenges. His priorities include responsible leadership, sustainability, artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship, organizational transformation, public policy, and the future of work.
Many observers believe his leadership will help guide the Academy into a more inclusive and globally connected future. His appointment also raises the international profile of the University of Greater Manchester as a center for leadership research and academic excellence.
