Richard Mullender

Former Scotland Yard Hostage Negotiator, Lead Trainer, Founder of The Listening Institute, Communication & Negotiation Expert

Richard Mullender’s Biography:

Richard Mullender is an acclaimed keynote speaker, former lead hostage negotiator at Scotland Yard, and founder of The Listening Institute. He draws on decades of real-world experience to help organisations transform the way they communicate, negotiate and lead. Mullender’s work is rooted in elite listening skills developed during his time negotiating with high-stakes parties and negotiating releases in conflict zones, skills he now brings to corporate audiences with striking impact.

Richard’s early journey began with a lengthy career in the Metropolitan Police, where he served for nearly 30 years as a detective specialising in serious crime before moving into hostage negotiation. His talent for understanding people and reading nuance was evident early on, and he was appointed Lead Trainer at Scotland Yard’s National Hostage and Crisis Negotiation Unit, a rare and prestigious position where he trained others to handle life-and-death situations with precision. Along the way he studied history at the University of North London, graduating with distinction, a formative experience that strengthened his analytical approach to human behaviour and communication.

During his operational years, he was central to negotiating the release of three United Nations workers held by the Taliban in Afghanistan, a defining moment in his career. He also contributed to the intelligence that led to the rescue of Norman Kember and others in Iraq. After leaving the police, Richard turned his unique skill set towards the private and public sectors. In 2013 he co-founded his first training company, later evolving into The Listening Institute, where he and his team of former negotiators teach business leaders how to listen like negotiators, turning information into intelligence and insights that drive better outcomes. He is also the author of ‘’Communication Secrets of a Hostage Negotiator’’, a respected work on influence and discussion techniques.

Why Hire Richard Mullender?

People choose Richard because his talks go beyond theory and hit practical, actionable skills. He covers topics such as elite listening, negotiation under pressure, influence, leadership and understanding human behaviour. These skills are among the most sought after in business today, helping leaders negotiate deals, resolve conflict and foster meaningful connection. His sessions are engaging and educational, offering tools audiences can apply immediately. For any organisation looking to sharpen communication and drive results, Richard brings rare expertise that’s grounded in real experience and real impact.

Richard Mullender’s Career Highlights:

Here are some of the key milestones that define Richard Mullender’s inspirational career in hostage negotiation and leadership:

• 2025 – Delivered advanced listening and negotiation training for the London Business Forum virtual series
• 2024 – Delivered keynote “Life or Death Listening” at the Global Borrowers & Bond Investors Forum
• 2016 – Published Communication Secrets of a Hostage Negotiator
• 2013 – Founded Mullenders, pioneering hostage negotiation skills for business
• 2010 – Appointed Lead Trainer, Scotland Yard National Hostage & Crisis Negotiation Unit
• 2006 – Contributed to intelligence leading to the rescue of Norman Kember in Iraq
• 2004 – Negotiated the release of three UN workers held hostage by the Taliban
• 1995 – Joined Scotland Yard’s Crisis Negotiation Unit