Professor Tim Soutphommasane
Expert in politics, race, human rights & equality, diversity and inclusion
I’m a political theorist, author and former public official. As Chief Diversity Officer and Professor at the University of Oxford, I lead the institution’s efforts relating to equality, diversity and inclusion.
During 2013-18 I was Australia’s Race Discrimination Commissioner, leading national efforts in combating racial discrimination. Prior to joining Oxford, I led the University of Sydney’s Culture Strategy and acted as director of the Sydney Policy Lab. I have also worked as a speechwriter in Australian politics and with public affairs firm Hawker Britton.
I have been a regular columnist for the Sydney Morning Herald, Age and Weekend Australian newspapers. I am the author of five books on patriotism, national identity and race — and presented the documentary series Mongrel Nation on ABC Radio National. My work has been featured and reported in outlets including the New York Times, CNN, BBC, Financial Times, The Guardian, New Statesman, and the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
I’m available for speaking and other engagements.
Born in France and raised in southwest Sydney, Australia, I graduated with first-class honours in government and international relations from the University of Sydney. I completed further study at the University of Oxford, where I graduated with a Master of Philosophy (with Distinction) and a Doctor of Philosophy in politics. I have been awarded honorary Doctor of Letters degrees from Deakin University and Western Sydney University in recognition of my contributions to multiculturalism and citizenship in Australia.
Areas of expertise
I have supported numerous international organisations with their approaches to leadership, diversity and culture change.
Leading with inclusion
People don’t always know how to get it right on diversity and inclusion The best of intentions and ambitions don't always lead to tangible results. Drawing upon my experience in the UK and Australia, and upon the latest organisational research and thinking, I can help you and your organisation position itself to lead with success.
Creating culture change
Creating the right organisational culture is increasingly recognised as critical for success. As a leader who has advised many organisations, and worked at universities to create enduring culture change, I can support your organisation to craft a culture imbued with purpose and care.
Human rights and freedoms
In an age of culture wars and identity politics, the domain of human rights and freedoms has never been more contested. What are the limits of free speech? How are we to strike the right balance between competing rights? And how can we have less divisive conversations? As a political theorist and former human rights commissioner in Australia, I can share my expertise on how to navigate these tricky questions.
My books
