Michael Davis
Michael is an experienced executive and non-executive leader with a strong record of delivering strategic and operational transformation across public, private, and non-profit sectors, underpinned by a belief in the importance of public value and social impact.
As Chief Executive of the National Centre for Social Research, Michael leads the UK’s foremost independent social research organisation, championing evidence-based insight to shape better outcomes in society, an ethos closely aligned with the RSA’s mission.
Michael’s career has spanned senior leadership roles in research, policy, and strategy, including at Kantar, Ecorys, and the UK Commission for Employment and Skills. Michael has a strong understanding of systems thinking, workforce development, productivity, and policy engagement, key themes in the RSA’s work. Michael has led large, complex programmes across global contexts, managed diverse stakeholder relationships, and delivered change programmes in both the private and public sectors.
In Michael’s current and previous non-executive roles, including Chair of Capital City College Group, Non-Executive Director at CFE Research, and trustee of Be the Business, Michael sought to bring strategic insight, governance experience, and a commitment to inclusive leadership. Michael has worked with learners, employers, and communities across the UK, with a particular focus on learner progression, social mobility, and small business enterprise.
