UNE’s John Austin to publish new book on leading through uncertainty

A forthcoming book authored by John Austin, Ph.D., dean of the University of New England’s Honors College and P.D. Merrill Endowed Chair of Business in the UNE College of Business, will explore how individuals and organizations can navigate uncertainty in today’s rapidly changing world. 

The book, “Certain About Uncertainty: Build Resilience, Gain Confidence, and Thrive in a Chaotic World,” examines how professionals and leaders can build what Austin describes as “uncertainty intelligence,” a set of skills designed to help individuals respond more effectively to constant change and ambiguity. Drawing on his experience in leadership development and executive education, the book outlines practical strategies to strengthen adaptability, improve decision-making, and build confidence in unpredictable environments.

The publication, available April 22, also introduces frameworks to help readers better assess complex situations, update their expertise in real time, and translate ideas into action. It also explores how teams can build resilience and operate more effectively amid ongoing disruption.

As an experienced leadership educator, student mentor, and advisor, Austin said the book reflects what he has seen in his work with professionals navigating constant change.

“We’ve spent much of our professional lives being trained to eliminate uncertainty, not navigate it,” he said. “I wrote this book because uncertainty isn’t going away, and the people I work with need better tools to move forward with confidence. This book shows how to do that.” 

As dean of UNE’s Honors College, Austin leads a community of high-achieving undergraduate students engaged in advanced, interdisciplinary learning. The program emphasizes collaboration, mentorship, and experiential opportunities that prepare students to navigate complex challenges and pursue their academic and professional goals.

Before joining UNE, Austin held faculty and leadership roles at Fielding Graduate University, Penn State University, and the University of Washington, Bothell. He has also worked extensively with global organizations, government agencies, and nonprofit groups as an executive development advisor, with experience facilitating leadership programs across six continents.

Austin’s research has been published in leading academic journals, including Journal of Applied Psychology and Organization Science, as well as practitioner-focused outlets such as Fast Company and HR Magazine. His work has received multiple honors from the Academy of Management, including the Newman Dissertation Award. 

“Certain About Uncertainty” will be available on April 22 and is available for pre-order through Amazon.