Jay R. Galbraith

Jay R. Galbraith is an American management consultant and former professor known for his research and writing on organizational design and change management. His books and lectures have shaped the thinking of generations of professionals who are interested in better managing organizations.

Galbraith was born in Berkeley, California, in 1942. He got his undergraduate degree in economics from the University of California, Berkeley. He then went on to receive his master’s and doctorate in the same subject from Cornell University. Afterwards, he began teaching at the University of Southern California. He remained at USC for over thirty years before moving on to teach at Stanford University and the University of Toronto.

Galbraith is best known for his book, Designing Complex Organizational Systems: Integration of Knowledge, Co-ordination and Adaptation, which was originally published in 1973. This book proposed that organizations need to be designed for the purpose of integrating knowledge, coordination, and adaptation. This design should bring together and energize key elements from both traditional and modern organization approaches. According to him, organizations should recognize the interdependent elements of an organization, the external pressures in the environment, and the need for the organization to constantly adapt to change.

Galbraith has also written and lectured on the topics of Globalization, Strategy, and Leadership in organizations. In his writings and lectures, he explored the changes in the external environment, i.e. competition, technology, and culture, that necessitated a shift in organizational strategy and how to lead and navigate complex environments.

In addition to his written works, Galbraith also has lectured extensively around the world on strategy, Organization Design, and Change Management. He is particularly known for his popular change management program, which focuses on understanding the organization and creating an intelligent plan for change by utilizing the skills of managing people and today’s technology.

In recognition of his influential work, Galbraith has received the Distinguished Service Award from the Organization Development Network and was also honored with the Harry and Mildred Remster Award from the American Society for Quality in 2004. He served as the President of the Organization Design Forum from 2000 to 2001.

Galbraith is an active member of the Academy of Management and the British Academy of Management, as well as the American Society for Training and Development. He still consults with organizations and advises companies on organizational change and design around the globe.