Elisabeth Kelan’s work was praised by the judges for being informative, accessible and concise, with the potential to deliver transformative change. At a time when inclusion initiatives are being withdrawn around the world, this publication reminds us that rather than take a step backwards, this is the moment to step forward and accelerate action.
Ann Francke OBE, CEO of the Chartered Management Institute
03 March 2025
Professor Elisabeth Kelan wins the inaugural Management Publication of the Year Award for “Men Stepping Forward”
Elisabeth Kelan, Professor of Leadership and Organisation, has won the inaugural Management Publication of the Year award, for her book ‘Men Stepping Forward: Leading Your Organization on the Path to Inclusion.’
The Management Publication of the Year awards were established to recognise groundbreaking work that offers fresh insights into some of the UK’s most pressing challenges in leadership and management. They are supported by the Chartered Management Institute, the British Academy of Management, the Chartered Association of Business Schools, and the British Library.
‘Men Stepping Forward’ draws on extensive research to offer a practical guide for men who wish to become agents of change in fostering gender-inclusive workplaces. It was also the winner in the Social Enterprise and Innovation category.
The award winner was selected by a panel of high profile judges, including Andrew Hill, senior business writer, Financial Times; Rt Hon Robert Halfon, managing director, Ladder of Opportunity Consulting and former skills minister; Byron Dixon OBE, founder and CEO of anti-microbial textile company Microfresh; Edwina Dunn OBE, founder of retail analytics platform Dunnhumby and educational charity The Female Lead; James Reed CBE, chairman and CEO, Reed; and Karen Blackett CBE, former president of global advertising giants WPP.
We’re very proud of Professor Kelan’s award. To be selected by such a distinguished panel is a very significant accolade. Alongside her latest book ‘Patterns of Inclusion - How Gender Matters for Automation, Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work’ , the award confirms her place at the forefront of thought leadership on inclusive leadership, digitalisation, and gender equality.
Professor Stephen Bach, Executive Dean, King's Business School
Too often, men are left out of the conversation on gender equality—but my research shows they have a crucial role to play. My book helps men understand how they can take an active role in driving gender equality—an essential step toward lasting change.
Professor Elisabeth Kelan
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Professor of Leadership and Organisation