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Being a trusted adviser can include being openly critical of the organisation seeking advice. In Ilana Bolingford’s research with Australian law academics one participant described a relationship with a regulator combining criticism of its work with broad support for its mission.

Although critical, this approach brought repeat opportunities for engagement. In my own work with governments and corporates, I have sought to build relationships around shared purposes while retaining the independence to question how those purposes are pursued.

This blog highlights how being a critical researcher and a trusted adviser can be compatible roles. However, these sorts of relationships take significant time and energy.