Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s (HBKU) College of Public Policy (CPP) concluded the Spring semester with a lecture exploring the dynamics of exercising adaptive leadership during periods of change.

Delivered by Dr. Paul Porteous, Director, Centre for Social Leadership, and Associate Fellow, Global Institute for Strategic Research (GISR), the lecture emphasized that adaptive leadership becomes critical when traditional hierarchical structures and siloed management approaches are insufficient for creating impactful public policy. In doing so, Dr. Porteous argued that the nature of the challenges faced during crises required fresh perspectives based on shared learning and full engagement by all stakeholders. Proceedings concluded with questions and answers and further contributions from the audience.

Dr. Porteous’ prior leadership experience includes work as a senior diplomat and international lawyer, representative to numerous international organizations, including the United Nations and International Court of Justice. He was previously Visiting Faculty at Harvard Kennedy School and Research and Teaching Fellow at Harvard's Center for Public Leadership where he received the Dean's Award for Excellence in Student Teaching. Dr. Porteous is also Adjunct Professor at the University of Canberra and has taught extensively throughout Australia and New Zealand.

The lecture was co-chaired by Dr. Leslie A. Pal, Founding Dean, CPP, and Dr. Sultan Barakat, Professor, CPP.