Strategic Studies Consultant, Educator and Researcher
I am the Laughton-Corbett Research Fellow in the Department of War Studies at King’s College London and a British Academy Research Scholar.
My research explores how history can improve strategic thinking and decision-making. In short, not just how to think about strategy but to act strategically. By examining enduring patterns in war, statecraft and defence, I seek to translate historical understanding into practical insight for policy, strategy, doctrine and organisational development. My work addresses contemporary strategic challenges from seabed to space through the disciplined application of historical analysis.
What distinguishes my work is a commitment to crossing boundaries that are often treated separately. I draw together strategic studies, applied history, organisational design and military thought, questioning established assumptions where the historical evidence suggests alternative ways of understanding strategic problems. Rather than treating history as a collection of lessons or illustrations, I approach it as a rigorous method for understanding complexity, identifying enduring patterns and informing better decisions.
My principal research interests include national defence strategy, the art of war, strategic theory, maritime and naval strategy, and the development of defence organisations. Underpinning this work is the conviction that strategy is not simply a theoretical discipline but a practical endeavour requiring careful judgement, historical perspective and intellectual curiosity.
Alongside my academic research, I contribute to professional military education, strategic dialogue and policy development through writing, teaching, speaking and consultancy. My work has informed and been supported by government agencies, such as the United States, together with defence organisations, academic institutions, civilian establishments and professional military education colleges internationally. This website brings together those activities, providing access to my current research, ongoing projects, publications, books, lectures and other scholarly work.
For a comprehensive catalogue of my books, publications, research projects and professional activities, please visit Collected Works.
If you would like to discuss research, collaboration, speaking engagements or consultancy, please get in touch via email.
