Diane Wei Liang

Diane Wei Liang is an international bestselling author, professor and expert speaker. With a background shaped by political upheaval, Diane is now a Distinguished Service Professor of Organisational Behaviour at Carnegie Mellon University who’s research examines organisational knowledge, creativity and innovation. A bestselling author, Diane is a sought-after speaker and expert on China. 

Born in Beijing, Diane spent part of her childhood with her parents in a labour camp in a remote region of China. She joined Peking University where she became involved in the 1989 Student Democracy Movement that led to the Tiananmen Square Massacre and as such she was forced to flee China. Settling in America, Diane studied for a Masters and Ph.D. at the Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon University. Diane then pursued a career in academia, taking on prestigious roles such as Lecturer of Strategic Management at Cranfield School of Management and Senior Lecturer of Management at The School of Business and Management, Royal Holloway, University of London. 

Diane is also a bestselling novelist who’s books have been translated into over twenty languages and published in twenty-eight countries. In her debut novel, the autobiographical “Lake with No Name”, Diane recounts her experiences as a student at Beijing University in the 1980s. She is also the author of the award winning Mei Wang Mysteries, which explore the complex socio-political context of China in an exciting, page-turning read. 

An experienced speaker, Diane has delivered key-notes at events, conferences and festivals around the world. A recognised China expert, Diane has contributed to “The Financial Times,” and “The Times” and appeared on BBC, ITV and Sky News. Diane’s story-telling talent allows her to translate complex socio-political ideas into engaging and challenging speeches.