Finding Wisdom in Complexity: A Conversation with Bill Critchley and John Higgins

Just before Christmas we hosted a conversation with Bill Critchley, a pioneer in organisational development. The session explored Bill’s remarkable journey from Gestalt psychotherapy to becoming an influential voice in organisational consulting.

Bill’s co-founded the Ashridge Masters in Organisational Change (AMOC)  – not just programme, more a vehicle for a radical reimagining of how we understand organisations, weaving together Gestalt principles with complex social processes.

Bill’s perspective on organisational change.questions grand visions and sweeping transformations, emphasising instead the power of present moments and local initiatives. Through his work, Bill has demonstrated how change often begins with creating spaces where people  feel safe to speak up and take initiative.

Bill shared his concerns about our increasing reliance on AI and the potential loss of embodied communication. In an age where digital solutions dominate, his emphasis on dialogue and vulnerability in organisations feels revolutionary and necessary.

 Bill left us with a powerful reminder: the importance of thinking critically about our assumptions and embracing the unpredictable nature of organisational life. His philosophy, focused on dynamic connections and emergent processes, offers a compelling framework for navigating today’s organisational landscapes.

You can see the recording below.

Also to note, Bill has recently made available to the world an archive of his writing – it is a generous gesture. You can find the archive on Bill’s webpage HERE. I am thrilled that Bill agreed to be our guest on the December pop-up in conversation with another old friend John Higgins. John has been a close colleague of Bill’s, and they have worked and written together for many years, it was great.