Atypical Leadership: Embracing the 'Boolean Cognitive' Approach

Date
Wednesday, 17 June 2026
Time
6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Location
Exton Park, Chester
Prof David McGravie
Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social SciencesChester Ideas

Throughout his professional career, David has cultivated an unconventional leadership approach that has been shaped and informed by his early adoption of technology, referred to herein as the “Boolean Cognitive” methodology. David places a strong emphasis on innovative thinking and reflection. As a born problem solver, he endeavours to approach situations differently and pose a range of different questions (The How?, The What?, The Why?) to elicit an unexpected or innovative response to problems. 

 This lecture will provide an in-depth analysis of his career trajectory, drawing upon examples and case studies that illustrate how he has integrated innovative methodologies and technological advancements with established practices. While he has capitalised on opportunities from both the digital and analogue domains, he has always prioritised individuals and built strong personal relationships at the core of his work. 

 This approach has enabled him to progress from a Visiting Lecturer in the 1990s to now work at a senior level in higher education (UK and Internationally) and also represent the UK’s creative sector as Chair of a Subject Association  (CHEAD). 

 The lecture will conclude with a reflection on creative practice and technology in 2026, exploring its potential impact on creatives and their work in the future.  

Tea and coffee will be served beforehand and a complimentary drink will be available afterwards.

Venue: School of Education 018

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How to get here

Exton Park is centrally located in Chester, and accessible via the M53, A483, A41, A56, and public transport from the city centre.

Address

University of Chester, Parkgate Road, Chester, CH1 4BJ

The Greenway Gate, accessible between 7am – 9pm with your University pass, is located at the back of the overflow car park and is the nearest point of access to the Millennium Greenway cycle path that connects to routes throughout the city.

Bache train station is a 15-minute walk from Exton Park and Chester railway station is a 20-minute walk. Arriva 1A and Arriva 1 run frequent services that stop with a short walk to Exton Park. All three Park and Ride routes, PR1, PR2 and PR3 have connections within walking distance to Exton Park.

Parking on campus is limited, so we recommend using public transport and/or walking if possible.