Chris Johnson
Lecturer
Biography
Chris is a Lecturer in the Management Department at the University of Chester Business School, where he plays an active role in shaping the next generation of business leaders. With a diverse background in further education, Chris has held key roles in curriculum development, programme leadership, and marketing, all of which have informed his approach to teaching and academic research. In his current position, Chris teaches across a range of undergraduate and postgraduate modules, including Strategic Management, Global Business, and Leadership, Development, and Change. His teaching philosophy blends theoretical frameworks with practical insights, empowering students to critically engage with contemporary business challenges and develop leadership skills essential for navigating complex organisational environments. Chris also supervises postgraduate dissertations, providing valuable guidance as students embark on their own research journeys and contribute to advancing business knowledge. Chris’s research interests lie at the intersection of education and business. Drawing on his experience in further education, his research focuses on understanding the complex factors that influence teacher morale, professional identity, and the broader educational landscape. His doctoral work explores the marketisation of state education, examining how social class dynamics shape teacher identities and collegiality. Through this research, Chris aims to better understand how these elements impact both the experience of educators and the outcomes for students. Beyond his teaching and research, Chris is committed to engaging with the wider community. He actively participates in outreach activities, working with local schools and colleges to inspire young people to pursue careers in business. Chris also supports student development through work-based learning, helping students gain hands-on experience and apply their academic knowledge in real-world settings.
Teaching and Supervision
Chris has a strong commitment to enhancing undergraduate and postgraduate education within the Business School. He teaches across several programmes, delivering core modules such as Strategic Management, Global Business, and Leadership, Development, and Change. These modules are designed to equip students with the critical skills and insights necessary to navigate the complexities of the business environment. In his approach, Chris integrates contemporary theories with practical applications, encouraging students to develop a deep understanding of strategic decision-making and effective leadership in a rapidly changing world. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Chris supervises postgraduate dissertations, providing mentorship and guidance to students undertaking original research projects. His support encourages a rigorous academic approach to addressing real-world issues, enabling students to contribute to advancing knowledge in business and management. Beyond the classroom, Chris engages with local schools and colleges as part of Chester Business School’s outreach activities, inspiring the next generation of business professionals. He also supports students’ development through work-based learning opportunities, helping them to connect theory with practice and gain valuable experience in professional settings.
Research and Knowledge Exchange
Drawing on his extensive experience within further education, Chris has developed a wide-ranging set of research interests, exploring key themes such as teacher morale, the marketisation of state education, and the impact of these dynamics on teacher professional identity and collegiality. His research delves into the relationship between social class and teacher professional identity, as well as the influence of instrumental rationality on the outcomes of Applied General learners. Through his doctoral research, Chris aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the factors that shape both educational experience and teacher practice.