Ben Leinster

After a successful career as a music video director and then a music manager, I became interested in social psychology. After completing an undergraduate degree in business psychology, I combined my previous work in music with my newfound passion for culture into a PhD looking at how music can impact an individual's self and social identity. My insights into culture, group identity, and leadership mixed with my varied employment history give me a unique perspective and abilities to flourish in a role

am a soon-to-be PhD graduate in Social Psychology with a rich and diverse professional background spanning academic research, the music industry, and project management. My doctoral research focuses on the impact of music on identity formation, using Social Identity Theory to explore cultural influences and leadership within communities.

In the music industry, I have over a decade of experience in talent acquisition, recording deal negotiations, and artist management, alongside expertise in music video direction and production. My work has involved collaborations with major labels and artists, showcasing my ability to manage complex projects and creative teams.

Earlier in my career, I held roles in account management and project coordination, where I designed and delivered training programs, managed client relationships, and led strategic marketing efforts. This blend of academic, creative, and management experience allows me to bring a unique perspective to any role I undertake.

I am about to complete a PhD in Social Psychology from Manchester Metropolitan University, where I focused on qualitative ethnographic research, specifically examining music's impact on young black males' identity formation. My research utilized Social Identity Theory to analyse music's cultural and social influences within communities, demonstrating a complex understanding of cultural formation and leadership.

Prior to my doctoral studies, I earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Psychology from Birkbeck University. This foundation equipped me with a deep understanding of psychological principles in business contexts, complementing my subsequent research and professional endeavours.