Prof. Binna Kandola

Professor Binna Kandola OBE is a distinguished business psychologist, diversity and inclusion expert, and co-founder of Pearn Kandola LLP, a renowned diversity and inclusion consultancy. With a career spanning several decades, Binna has combined academic rigour with real-world experience to become one of the UK’s leading voices on racial equality in the workplace. His personal experiences of racism have profoundly shaped his mission to create fairer, more inclusive organisations. As a speaker, Binna tackles a wide range of topics including Managing Diversity, The Future of Managing Diversity, Unconscious Bias, Global Development, and The Business Case for Inclusion –  offering insights grounded in psychology, research, and lived experience.

Binna began his career in occupational psychology, developing a strong foundation in organisational behaviour and leadership. His early work led him to co-found Pearn Kandola LLP, where he has helped countless companies transform their approach to inclusion. In 1994, he received a Special Commendation at the Management Book of the Year Awards for Managing the Mosaic, which positioned him as an emerging authority on diversity. His influence grew significantly when he was elected Chair of the Division of Occupational Psychology in 2002 and was subsequently appointed to various national advisory roles, including the UK Government’s National Employment Panel and as Chair of its Minority Ethnic Group.

Over the years, Binna has continued to be recognised for his impact. In 2008, he was awarded an OBE for Services to Disadvantaged People and Diversity. He has authored several influential books including The Value of Difference (2009), The Invention of Difference (2013), and Racism at Work (2018), each exploring the systemic nature of bias and how to dismantle it. He’s delivered keynote speeches at major events such as the British Psychological Society POP Conference and the Learning, Development & Talent Management Conference. His academic achievements were honoured in 2012 when he was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Science by Aston University.

Binna is frequently hired by organisations seeking to challenge bias, reshape workplace culture, and foster racial equality through informed and practical strategies. His speaking topics – ranging from Tackling Prejudice and Strategy Development to Managing Talent and Entrepreneurship – are always tailored to audience needs, offering a powerful blend of research, storytelling, and actionable advice. He is particularly valued for his deep understanding of racial inequality and his ability to inspire genuine change. For any organisation aiming to move beyond tokenism and embed real inclusion, Binna is a trusted and transformative voice.