Robert Sutton

Professor of Management Science, Engineering & Organisational Behaviour at Stanford University, Leader of The Friction Project & Award-Winning Author of ‘Hard Facts, Dangerous Half-Truths & Total Nonsense’

Robert Sutton’s Biography:

Robert Sutton is a globally recognised organisational psychologist, leadership expert and bestselling author renowned for helping businesses build healthier, higher-performing workplace cultures. As the leader of The Friction Project, Robert is widely respected for his expertise in leadership, organisational behaviour and innovation, delivering keynote addresses in more than 20 countries. A Professor of Management Science and Engineering and Professor of Organisational Behaviour at Stanford University, he has shaped modern thinking on workplace dynamics through influential books such as ‘The No Asshole Rule’, ‘Good Boss, Bad Boss’ and ‘The Knowing-Doing Gap’. His engaging and research-driven insights make him one of the most sought-after speakers on leadership, collaboration and organisational effectiveness.

After earning a PhD in Organisational Psychology from the University of Michigan, Robert joined Stanford University’s faculty in 1983 and went on to found the Stanford Technology Ventures Program and the Hasso Plattner Institute of Design. Alongside his academic career, he has advised major organisations including McKinsey & Company and served as a Senior Scientist at Gallup. Robert also lectures at Stanford University on programmes such as Customer-Focused Innovation and the Stanford Innovation and Entrepreneurship Certificate, helping leaders understand how to turn knowledge into action and scale successful workplace cultures.

Robert’s books have consistently achieved international acclaim, appearing on both the New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestseller lists. His publication ‘Hard Facts, Dangerous Half-Truths & Total Nonsense’ was named The Globe and Mail’s Best Business Book of 2006, while his research has earned prestigious accolades, including the Academy of Management Journal Award and the Academy of Management Review Award. He is also a regular contributor to the Harvard Business Review and the Financial Times, further cementing his authority in leadership and management thinking.

Beyond his writing and teaching, Robert continues to influence global business culture through podcasts, advisory roles and board positions, including serving on the board of the Institute for the Future. As the host of The Friction Project podcast for the Stanford Technology Ventures Program, he explores how organisations can reduce destructive friction and create environments where teams thrive. Combining academic rigour with practical business insight, Robert equips audiences with actionable strategies to improve leadership, innovation and workplace performance.

Why Hire Robert Sutton?

Robert is hired as a speaker for his ability to translate complex organisational psychology and leadership research into practical strategies that businesses can immediately implement. Drawing on decades of experience at Stanford University, he delivers engaging talks on workplace culture, innovation, scaling excellence and effective leadership. His bestselling books, global keynote experience and advisory work with major organisations provide audiences with evidence-based insights that improve collaboration, reduce workplace friction and drive performance. Robert’s presentations are informative, entertaining and highly relevant to leaders navigating modern business challenges.

Robert Sutton’s Career Highlights:

Here are some of the key milestones that define Robert Sutton’s remarkable career:

  • 2017 – Published ‘The Asshole Survival Guide’, offering practical advice on managing difficult workplace behaviour.
  • 2014 – Published ‘Scaling Up Excellence: Getting to More Without Settling for Less’, focusing on sustainable organisational growth.
  • 2014 – Ranked 10th in The American Management Association’s Top 30 Leaders Who Influenced Business.
  • 2014 – Received the Sumantra Ghoshal Award in recognition of his contributions to leadership and management thinking.
  • 2010 – Published ‘Good Boss, Bad Boss’, examining the behaviours that define successful leadership.
  • 2007 – Published ‘The No Asshole Rule’, one of the most influential books on workplace culture and toxic behaviour.
  • 2006 – Published ‘Hard Facts, Dangerous Half-Truths & Total Nonsense’, later named The Globe and Mail’s Best Business Book.
  • 2005 – Received the Academy of Management Review Award for Best Published Article.
  • 2002 – Published ‘Weird Ideas That Work’, exploring unconventional approaches to innovation and creativity.
  • 1999 – Published ‘The Knowing-Doing Gap: How Smart Companies Turn Knowledge into Action’, analysing why organisations fail to implement good ideas.