Dr. Richard Galletly is a Senior Lecturer in our Birmingham Business School. Here he shares his career journey and his joy in seeing students grow and thrive.
By April Baniqued. Published 22 December 2025.
What achievements are you most proud of?
The most important achievement of my career was completing my doctoral thesis. It was called the ‘Psychological Contracts at an International Joint Venture University in China.’ It was the longest and most time-consuming project I have ever done. Worthwhile, yes, and hopefully a riveting tale.
What sparked the decision to go into teaching?
Everybody told me that I should become a teacher ever since I was in high school. After graduating, I tried a few professions. This includes working in a restaurant, banks, retail sales, IT recruitment and technical support. Eventually, I found that teaching is in my nature and makes me happy. Around 2003, I decided to embark on the teaching journey. I taught in a couple of universities in the UK but also had the chance to teach internationally. For example, I taught English in Spain, Business English in Austria for several years, and spent many years teaching at a university in China. In 2022, I joined The University of Law after a colleague—who had joined himself—recommended it to me.
Who has influenced you on your journey?
The time I spent in Vienna has been the most influential in my journey. I’m truly grateful for the many friends I made there. Listening to their stories, challenges and successes helped me to develop and test some of the ideas I have today. Vienna shaped me both professionally and personally. I won’t name names but you know who you are.
What can students expect in your classroom?
I encourage my students to be involved in workshops. They solve problems, make their own judgements and present their solutions and recommendations to the class. I enjoy it when students share their opinions, stories and personal experiences during discussions since I know that’s what they will remember most. I also look forward to them surprising me and challenging my views.
What’s one aspect of teaching that truly excites you?
I like to write business cases. It gives me a kick to imagine the case being delivered and I enjoy the development process. I visualise how it’s going to play out in class and how students are going to respond to it. I love how one concept can inflate an unexpected bubble of debate.
What do you find most inspiring about teaching?
I get inspired by the achievements of my students, particularly when they tell me about their career and how they apply what they have learned in the workplace. Keeping in contact with them helps me see how their lives are enriched by the subjects.
What advice would you like to give to students?
Make the most of your time at university: volunteer, socialise, connect with people who will be useful for you later in your career, study hard and contribute to class. The benefits you get from university will match the effort you put in. Take advantage of your energy while you are young.
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