Richard Mullender is a former lead hostage negotiator with the UK police and one of the world’s leading experts in listening as a tool of influence. With a career forged in high-pressure, high-stakes environments—including counter-terrorism operations and international hostage negotiations—Richard now trains leaders, teams, and organisations in the power of strategic listening.

Unlike most communication skills training, Richard’s approach goes far beyond body language and active listening clichés. He teaches the science and psychology of how to truly listen, decode what people actually mean, and use that information to build trust, influence outcomes, and negotiate more effectively.

Whether he’s advising intelligence agencies or Fortune 500 companies, Richard’s techniques offer an edge in any situation where words matter—from sales and leadership to law, diplomacy, and conflict resolution.

What to expect from Richard’s sessions

Richard’s masterclasses are immersive, practical, and built on real-world experience. Participants will learn how to:

• Decode language to reveal what someone really thinks, feels, or wants

• Build rapid rapport and trust in high-stakes conversations

• Improve decision-making by listening for insight, not just information

• Apply elite negotiation skills in everyday leadership and business contexts

• Use language strategically to gain clarity, influence, and results

Based on real cases from the world of hostage negotiation, Richard's sessions are powerful, eye-opening, and instantly applicable to any role that relies on communication under pressure.

Richard has delivered training to a wide range of high-profile organisations including the UN, the FBI, Scotland Yard, banks, law firms, media outlets, and multinational corporates. His methods have helped leaders negotiate better, sell smarter, and communicate with more impact across industries.