Dr. Keith Straughan

Biography

Keith Straughan is a seasoned academic leader, innovator, and entrepreneur with a diverse background spanning physics, medicine, and theology. He began his career in medical imaging as part of the pioneering team commissioned to develop the world’s first clinical MRI system. Subsequently, he joined the faculty at Imperial College London, where he launched the institution's research and teaching programs in diagnostic imaging. During his time at Imperial, he embraced entrepreneurship, spinning off five companies. Straughan has held senior academic roles at the University of Cambridge, culminating in his appointment as chief academic officer of constituent colleges. He led the establishment of a new university in Milton Keynes, England, marking a bold shift from the country’s oldest institutions to the newest. Successfully guiding the university through its formative phase, he transitioned from formal academia to focus on innovation, leadership development, and capacity building. In 2024, he established a Kigali-based subsidiary consulting firm, working extensively with public and private sector partners to foster an innovation ecosystem in Africa. Straughan is recognized internationally as an executive coach for C-level leaders in corporate, public sector, and SME start-ups across various industry verticals. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Coaching at Harvard Medical School, a Fellow of the Association for Coaching, and a Senior Practitioner with the European Coaching and Mentoring Council.

Research Interests