Dr. Michelle Penelope King is a globally renowned expert on inequality and organizational culture, dedicated to transforming workplaces into inclusive environments that foster equity for all. As the Chief People Officer at ODI, a prestigious global affairs think tank, Michelle leads initiatives aimed at combating injustice and inequality, continuing a... Read more
Dr. Michelle Penelope King is a globally renowned expert on inequality and organizational culture, dedicated to transforming workplaces into inclusive environments that foster equity for all. As the Chief People Officer at ODI, a prestigious global affairs think tank, Michelle leads initiatives aimed at combating injustice and inequality, continuing a legacy that spans over six decades.
Before joining ODI, Michelle founded The Culture Practice, a global consultancy specializing in diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and organizational development. Her expertise attracted high-profile clients such as JP Morgan, Netflix, Dior, FIFA, and Amazon, where she spearheaded strategies to reshape workplace cultures. Through this, she created an expansive library of DEI training content, partnering with Udemy to democratize access to these resources globally. Michelle also serves as a Senior Advisor to the UN Foundation’s Girl Up Campaign, where she oversees the NextGen Leadership Development Program, equipping young women with the skills to lead in today’s evolving workplace.
Michelle’s career has included prominent roles such as Director of Inclusion at Netflix and Head of UN Women’s Global Innovation Coalition for Change. With two decades of international experience, she has consistently been at the forefront of advancing more inclusive organizational cultures.
Michelle is not only an award-winning academic but also a dynamic thought leader. She holds five degrees, including a PhD in Management, and is currently pursuing post-doctoral research at Cranfield University. Her published works include the bestselling and award-winning book The Fix: How to Overcome the Invisible Barriers That Are Holding Women Back at Work and her latest release, How Work Works, published by HarperCollins in 2023.
Dr. Michelle King has an extensive speaking career, having delivered over 500 talks at prestigious global events such as the Nobel Peace Prize Conference, SXSW, and major women’s leadership conferences. Represented by the London Speakers Bureau, she engages with leading companies like Amazon, FIFA, Netflix, and Dior through keynotes, masterclasses, and fireside chats. Michelle is highly sought after for her expertise in inequality, organizational culture, and inclusive leadership, making her a globally recognized thought leader in these fields.
She has been featured in top-tier media outlets like The Economist, Harvard Business Review, CNBC, Bloomberg, and Time. In recognition of her contributions, Michelle was named LinkedIn’s Top Voice for Workplace Equity in 2022, in 2023 listed among the Top 100 Women at Davos by Global Women’s Leadership Experts and in 2024 shortlisted for the Thinkers50 Talent Award.
With a deep commitment to creating workplaces where everyone can thrive, Dr. King continues to shape the future of work through her innovative leadership, research, and advocacy.
Uncover the hidden mechanics of workplace inequality with Dr. King. Drawing from extensive research and real-world insights, Dr. King unpacks how structural inequalities permeate workplace culture, often invisible to those in power. This talk guides leaders and employees alike through practical steps to dismantle these barriers, fostering a truly inclusive...
In this engaging talk, Dr. King challenges conventional views on gender equality, emphasising that it’s not only a women’s issue but a transformative opportunity for men. With compelling examples, she illustrates how equality can lead to better health, stronger relationships, and more fulfilling careers for men. This session is an eye-opener,...
Despite progress, women often face subtle, unseen obstacles that hinder career growth. In this powerful session, Dr. King reveals these “invisible barriers” and equips women with strategies to overcome them. Attendees will gain valuable insights into navigating workplace dynamics, advancing with confidence, and achieving career goals without compromising their authenticity....
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are not just policies but calls to action for today’s leaders. Dr. King inspires leaders to see DEI as a transformative force, demonstrating how embracing diversity strengthens teams, drives innovation, and prepares organisations for future challenges. This talk offers a roadmap for leaders looking to foster...
True allyship goes beyond support—it’s about actively championing others’ success. In this transformative session, Dr. King guides audiences through the journey from ally to success partner, offering actionable insights to make a meaningful impact in others’ careers. This talk is a powerful invitation for leaders and peers alike to uplift...
What makes work genuinely fulfilling? In this thought-provoking session, Dr. King identifies the five core needs that make work meaningful and explores how companies and individuals alike can meet them. Attendees will learn how to create environments that foster engagement, purpose, and connection, leading to happier, more motivated employees and a...
With automation reshaping industries, the question isn’t if but how to adapt. Dr. King explores the rise of AI and its impact on the workforce, presenting three practical strategies to stay relevant and resilient in the face of technological change. This talk is a vital resource for anyone looking to thrive...
HR is at a transformative crossroads. Dr. King dives into the latest trends shaping HR, from technology and data-driven decision-making to fostering diverse cultures. This session provides HR professionals and leaders with insights on navigating these changes effectively, equipping them to build dynamic, people-centric workplaces that can attract and retain...
Trust is the foundation of high-performing teams, but building it requires deliberate effort. Dr. King explains how a culture of trust fuels productivity, innovation, and employee satisfaction. Attendees will leave with actionable steps to cultivate trust within their teams, transforming their organisations into collaborative, empowered workplaces that achieve more together.
In today’s interconnected world, informal networks are a career superpower. Dr. King introduces five essential practices for building these networks effectively, helping professionals unlock new opportunities, support systems, and avenues for growth. This session is perfect for anyone looking to expand their influence, foster connections, and accelerate career success.
As workplaces become more global, cultural competence is essential. Dr. King shares five practices to help professionals work seamlessly across cultures, fostering empathy, understanding, and respect. Attendees will gain skills to navigate diverse teams and international partnerships, making this talk ideal for those in cross-cultural environments or global roles.
Preparing for the future is essential in an era of rapid technological advancements and shifting work landscapes. Dr. King presents four impactful strategies to help professionals adapt, thrive, and safeguard their careers against change. This session provides actionable advice on building resilience, expanding critical skill sets, and embracing innovation. Perfect...