Vote Now : BAM Council Election - January 2026 - December 2028

From January 2026, thirty nine elected places on the Council of the British Academy of Management will fall vacant for 3-year terms of office beginning 1st of January 2026 until the 31st of December 2028.

We are delighted to see that thirty nine candidates have been nominated, representing a diverse range of research backgrounds and interests and indicating the level of enthusiasm within our membership to contribute directly to the work of the Academy.

Members of the British Academy of Management are entitled to vote in the current Council Elections and may vote for up to 8 candidates.

These elections are important as they will decide who will serve as members of Council and Sub-Committees for the next three years (Jan 2026 - Dec 2028) and will help to shape the Academy’s future.

  • The deadline for votes to be returned will be 12:00 British Summer Time on Tuesday 8th July.

    Please note that canvassing is not permitted. Canvassing – of any type – is strictly forbidden to support our core values of Equality, Diversity, Inclusivity and Respect. We expect our BAM community to understand and honour the expectation that candidate statements are the basis upon which members decide where to cast their votes. Candidates – as well as their friends and supporters - must not ask people to vote for them. Failure to observe this rule may result in a candidate being withdrawn from the election.

The Candidates:

Dr Muhammad Naseer Akhtar

Institution:  University of East London, UK

Position: Associate Professor in HRM and People Analytics, and Interim Director of Research Impact & Innovation 

As a Chartered Academic Fellow (FCIPD) and Associate Professor in HRM at the University of East London, I bring over 20 years of academic and research leadership experience across the UK, Europe, and Asia. I currently serve as Interim Director of Research and REF2029 Lead. My research on leadership, employee behaviour, and HPWS has resulted in 25+ research articles.

My longstanding commitment to mentoring is reflected in my supervision of doctoral researchers, capacity-building for early and mid-career academics, and editorial contributions as Associate Editor of Employee Relations and board member of Internet Research. I have actively participated in BAM conferences, development workshops, and the “Director of Research (DPDoR)” training, offered by BAM and CABS, as both a participant and speaker.

If elected to the BAM Council, I will contribute proactively to the Research & Publications subcommittee by co-developing mentoring schemes for emerging scholars, championing responsible research practices, and facilitating interdisciplinary collaborations that link UK academics with global networks. I aim to enhance BAM’s publishing visibility and member engagement through inclusive, hands-on initiatives such as writing retreats, publishing roundtables, and cross-SIG research platforms.

I am deeply committed to BAM’s scholarly mission and to serving its community with purpose and integrity.
 

Dr Polina Baranova

Institution: University of Derby, UK

Position: Associate Professor of Strategy and Sustainability, Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) Programme Leader Deputy REF Lead UoA 17 BAM Sustainable and Responsible Business SIG Co-Chair

As a long serving member of BAM SIG community, it would be a privilege to serve on the BAM Council and contribute to strengthening of the BAM SIG portfolio. I hold BAM membership since 2006, served as Co-Track Chair for Sustainable and Responsible Business (SRB) SIG since 2018, hold SRB SIG Co-Chair role since 2021, and co-opted to BAM Council in spring 2025. During my time Co-Track Chair and Co-Chair, the SRB SIG became a vibrant and engaged community, grew in numbers, and is consistently top 3 BAM SIGs by conference submissions. I bring to the role strong leadership experience including Chair of the College Research Ethics Committee, DBA Programme Leader and Deputy REF Lead UoA17 Business and Management. My strengths lie in leading high-performance teams, innovation and multi-stakeholder collaboration. My international research profile and expertise in green growth capability development, capacity building for net zero transition and sustainable regional development is growing. I’ve published over 60 outputs including journal articles, book and book chapters, conference papers, industry reports and policy briefings. If elected, I’ll work to enhance reputation and impact of BAM through improved collaboration between BAM SIGs and external stakeholders including sector-leading organisations, industry, policy and international partners. 

Dr Rebecca Beech

Institution: Oxford Brooks University, UK

Position: Senior Lecturer in Marketing 

I am an enthusiastic early career academic (ECA) with a passion for supporting early careers, demonstrated thus far in my role as co-founder/co-lead of the award-winning ECA network. I hold research/teaching expertise in sustainability, and a growing nationally/internationally recognised research profile towards examining how technology can encourage consumers’ sustainable behaviours, with a focus on sustainable fashion. Considering my drive to support the ECA community and expertise in sustainability, I would like to be considered for council on the research and publications or AACCB sub-committee. Firstly, by informing grant topics and the ‘meet the editor’ sessions with a sustainability lens to align with BAM’s strategy to create ‘sustainable futures’ for the planet via business and management research, and inform insights from the ECA community on grants and ‘meet the editor’ topics. Secondly, on the AACCB, to collaborate with the sub-committee to provide training and support for the BAM community, particularly focus upon current thinking on sustainability led initiatives and fostering ECAs via dedicated events. Aligning with BAM’s ongoing priority to support career growth, and EDIR strategy. The role would be invaluable to my professional development, broaden my network, and be instrumental in developing my leadership skills for future promotion.

Dr Utpal Kumar Bhattacharya

Institution: Indian Institute of Management Indore

Position: Associate Professor

Professor Utpal Kumar Bhattacharya has received his Bachelor of Science degree with Mathematics honours  from Chandernagore College, Burdwan University, West Bengal. He stood first in the University in Mathematics. He did Master of Science in Mathematics and Doctor of Philosophy in Operations Research from IIT Kharagpur. He was the recipient of national scholarship award in 1986-87. He was the recipient of CSIR fellowship in 1989. Professor Utpal Kumar Bhattacharya is a Inaugural Class Senior Member of INFORMS.  One of his Management Case titled “Advertising Analytics”,  was accepted for presentation in INFORMS Case and case teaching material competition 2014. The case was presented in INFORMS Annual Meeting held in San Francisco, November 9-12, 2014 

Professor Utpal Kumar Bhattacharya has served as Chairman and Committee Members in various academic and administrative committees at IIM Indore. He was Personnel and Purchase Committee Chairman for two consecutive terms, OM&QT Area Chairman for four years, Academic Associative Committee Chairman for one term . He was also ex-officio committee members of various other academic and administrative committees. Served as panelist in various academic and administrative recruitment boards since last 26 years. He was the Chairman, Member, of comprehensive examination committee of various Research Programmes (FPM. FPM (Industry)) for several years. Academic Council member at IIM Indore since last 22 years.  He has  severed as a reviewer of various well known international conferences, Served as a Judge for various national and internation competitions have  worked as a Section councilor of Health Administration Section of American Public Health Association.  Recently he has  got elected as a Governing Councilor in CHPPD Section of American Public Health Association. Served as a reviewer of AOM annual meeting for a long time. Organizing committee member of APORS2009 conference held in Jaipur, India 

Professor Utpal Kumar  Bhattacharya, PhD, has taught in various Post Graduate Programme in Management, Executive Post Graduate in Management and various Research Programs in Management.  He has  several years of experience of working with various responsible activities  in Operations Research , Management Science, Business Statistics, Logistics Management, Health Care Management, etc. area. He is  also the active mentor in mentor match programs of Academy of Management, INFORMS, EurOMA, and AIS

Professor Utpal Kumar Bhattacharya has more than 36 years of research experience in Operations Research/Management Science area. DR. UTPAL KUMAR BHATTACHARYA has developed various research based methodologies in Management which are beneficial for the people and the society He has published various articles in ABDC and high impact factor journals. He has several publications in Elsevier/Scopus Journals. Professor Utpal Kumar Bhattacharya is the author of various articles of high impact factor/A* Elsevier Journals. He develops various research based courses as per the present need of the people and industry and teaches in various Post Graduate, Executive Post Graduate and various Research Programmes in Management.

Dr Canh Thien Dang

Institution: Kings College London, UK

Position: Lecturer in Economics

I am standing for the Management Knowledge and Education (MKE) Council because I believe management education is at a pivotal point. As a educator deeply involved in curriculum design, interdisciplinary teaching, and student engagement, I want to contribute to shaping the future of how we educate the next generation of managers and leaders.

The MKE Council’s remit speaks directly to my core interests: enhancing pedagogic practice, supporting colleagues across career stages, and ensuring management education reflects the evolving needs of society and the economy. I see real opportunities for us to influence sector-wide debates—on developing AI literacy enhanced curricula, embedding sustainability, and aligning management education with real-world impact.

My experience includes co-leading capacity-building workshops, mentoring early-career academics, and working across departments to implement innovative teaching practices. I am organised, collaborative, and committed—ready to contribute meaningfully to BAM’s activities and vision.

More importantly, I care. I care about the quality of our teaching, the development of our colleagues, and the integrity of what we deliver in lecture halls and boardrooms alike. I see the MKE Council not as a title, but as a team effort—and I would be honoured to bring energy, thoughtfulness, and strategy to that team.

 

Dr Fariba Darabi

Institution: University of Bangor

Position: Associate Professor in Management and Academic Director of Executive DBA at Bangor Business School

I am standing for the re-election as a member of BAM Council believing I continue bringing knowledge, passion, and experience to this role. For over 17 years, I have been an active BAM member, my contributions including co-leading Education Focused Professor Programme at MKE sub-committee, Research Methodology SIG Co-Chair & past conference track chair, past secretary of Entrepreneurship SIG, session at the Doctoral Symposium. I am also steering committee member of EFMD Doctoral development programmes.
 
I am interested in research and teaching aspects of research methodology, entrepreneurship, engaged scholarship with SMEs, AI in SMEs. I have published on these areas, led Research Methods Modules for PGT/PGRs and have secured funding for a range of PGR/ECR development events. I regularly work with PGRs, ECRs and academic colleagues to support the doctoral programmes, examine Doctoral thesis in management, and design doctoral programmes including DBA and Industrial PhD which I am passionate. 

If I elected, I would like to contribute to the development of our mid-career community through my work at MKE, and to ECR/PGR community. I have a strong interest in Doctoral Researcher development, building on previous and current engagement with BAM doctoral symposiums and my leadership roles in my university. 
 

Dr Soheil Davari

Institution: Univrsity of Bath

Position: Director of Accreditations and Associate Professor

As an experienced educator and researcher in management, I have actively contributed to the academic community through teaching innovation, leadership in curriculum development, and mentoring of both staff and students across career stages. I bring a track record of strategic leadership in industry and academia, having served in a range of organisations in four countries. I currently lead initiatives promoting responsible management education, in alignment with the UN PRME principles while serving as the Director of Accreditations for School of Management, University of Bath.

My work cuts across disciplines, with a strong focus on innovation in teaching and assessment, academic leadership, and embedding sustainability in management education. I bring substantial experience in organising academic conferences, symposia, and research-led events designed to promote capacity building and collaboration across career stages. 

I am committed to BAM’s mission and values, and I see this as an opportunity to contribute meaningfully by supporting Special Interest Groups, developing inclusive initiatives, and strengthening the link between research, education, and practice. I would be delighted to represent members and help shape the future of our field through active and consistent participation in Council and sub-committee work.
 

Dr Cecilia Ellis

Institution: Manchester Metropolitan University, UK

Position: Associate Professor HRM Practice

My background is in HRM Practice and I am passionate about developing the future leaders of people. I joined Manchester Metropolitan University in 2009 and I see evidence-based education as they to unlocking the transformation potential of people and I strive to develop programs and curriculum which will equip our graduates to make a valuable contribution to the workplace. I am a relative newcomer to BAM but after attending the MKE Teaching Practice Conference I was inspired by the community of educators and would welcome the opportunity to become more actively involved with a community of like-minded individuals. I can bring a fresh perspective, energy and enthusiasm and a relevant skillset to support the ambitions of BAM. I am an experienced leader of people, programs and my discipline and committed to the pursuit of educational excellence. As a trained mediator I am competent in managing difficult conversations and as a Fellow of the CIPD, I can explore opportunities for collaboration with external networks to support the growth of the BAM membership. I have previously served on committees and I would like to have the opportunities to network, learn and contribute to the strategic priorities of BAM. 

I am an experienced mentor and understand the opportunities and challenges of capacity building for early career scholars. If elected I would like to develop a more formal mentoring intervention to support the future development of early career scholars.  


 

Dr Hajar Fatorachian

Institution: Leeds Beckett University, UK

Position: Senior Lecturer 

I am Dr Hajar Fatorachian, Senior Lecturer in Operations and Supply Chain Management at Leeds Business School. I lead the MSc Supply Chain and Logistics programme and serve as Supply Chain and Anchors Research Cluster Lead. My research focuses on digital transformation, sustainability, and AI-driven supply chains, supported by externally funded projects and peer-reviewed publications.

I am an active BAM member, serving as Industry Officer for the Supply Chain & Logistics SIG, Track Chair at BAM2023, and a regular contributor at BAM conferences. I also mentor early-career researchers through EurOMA and support research dissemination as Associate Editor for the Journal of Sustainable Technology and Entrepreneurship.

If elected to Council, I will support the SIGs and the Management, Knowledge and Education (MKE) sub-committee, drawing on my experience in academic leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration, grant development, and capacity-building. I also engage with the British Standards Institution (BSI) on IoT and Digital Twin standards and hold Chartered Membership with CILT and professional membership with CIPS, bringing valuable practitioner insights.

I fully understand the expectations of Council and am committed to attending all in-person and online meetings. I’m passionate about advancing BAM’s vision around EDIR, sustainability, and impactful, inclusive management research and education.

Dr Keith Glanfield

Institution: Cardiff Metropolitan University, UK

Position: Senior Lecturer

For the past fifteen years as a long standing SIG  and Track Chair (Marketing and Retail), SIG committee member, co-opted member of council and Vice-Chair of BAM’s 2019 conference I have worked hard, with colleagues, to maintain and develop BAM as an open, collaborative, inclusive, progressive and welcoming place for business and management scholars.

Whether this be running SIG activity, building relationships with other organisations (CIM, Marketing Trusts), organising conference tracks, running SIG AGM’s and working with other SIGs etc to contribute to BAMs wider policy I have first and foremost focussed on the needs of our members.

Throughout my career BAM has supported me through my doctoral journey, the challenges of an early career academic and into an established academic career. 

I stand for election as a member of BAM council because I want to continue giving back to BAM and its members,  helping to provide development opportunities and support for the next generation of Scholars whether this be on the SIG, research or MKE sub-committees etc.

As you’d expect, coming from a practice background,  I’m an experienced published researcher, with extensive teaching, teaching innovation and PI experience and a strong track record of working and integrating with practice.
 

Professor Marie Griffiths

Institution: University of Salford

Position: Programme Leader and EDI Lead for Research

I am pleased to nominate myself for a position on the BAM Council. I am a Professor in Digital Technologies at the University of Salford, with research interests in digital transformation, managing AI Business, and knowledge exchange. I have been an active BAM member over many years, regularly contribute to conferences and events and SIGs. 

My experience includes serving as President of the UK Academy for Information Systems (UKAIS), where I led initiatives to strengthen the community and champion interdisciplinary engagement. I am also currently a Trustee for Emmaus Salford, a homelessness charity, which reflects my commitment to socially responsible leadership and community impact.

I bring extensive leadership experience from academia, including programme leadership of several MSc programmes, and a track record of impactful enterprise work, including over a decade of Knowledge Transfer Partnerships. I have a strong interest in education innovation and fostering inclusive research cultures, demonstrated in my current role as EDI Lead for Research at Salford Business School.

If elected, I am keen to contribute to the Management Knowledge and Education (MKE) sub-committee, and to support BAM’s vision for inclusive, impactful, and collaborative management scholarship. I fully commit to the active responsibilities of Council membership.

Dr Lisa. M Hammond

Institution: University of South Florida, USA

Position: Faculty

I am an educator, researcher, and former executive with over 20 years of leadership experience spanning corporate and public sectors. My research focuses on the future of project management, nature-inspired organizational design, and virtual leadership. I bring a practitioner-scholar perspective, committed to bridging academic insight with real-world application.

I presented at the Academia Meets Practice (AMP) conference hosted by the University of Florida’s MUMA College of Business and will present at BAM 2025 on The Future of Project Management: From Task Management to Driving Business Outcomes. I have also been accepted to contribute a chapter to the Academy of Management’s forthcoming volume Spiritual and Religious Perspectives on Management Education, with my chapter titled Rewilding Business Education: A Spiritual and Biomimetic Revolution.

If elected, I would be honoured to serve on the Special Interest Groups (SIGs) sub-committee. I am passionate about cultivating inclusive, interdisciplinary communities and would actively support SIG governance, collaboration, and programming.

While based outside the UK, I regularly attend conferences and have close family in Leeds, which supports my full commitment to in-person and virtual participation. I am eager to contribute to BAM’s vision and help advance meaningful research, dialogue, and professional development across the management community.
 

Professor Chris Hand

Institution: Kingston University London

Position: Professor of Marketing/ Research Hub Lead

I’m relatively new to BAM – the 2023 conference was my first presenting in person.  I’ve presented in the Marketing and Retail and the Entrepreneurship tracks and will present in the Research Methods track this year.  My co-authors and I won a best full paper prize in 2019 (in the Marketing and Retail track).  I’ve been an academic for over 20 years and was drawn to BAM by the breadth and friendliness of the conference and its other activities.  I joined the Peer Review college in 2024.

Developing researchers and research skills has formed a major part of my career.  I ran doctoral training for my Business School for 15 years, guiding PhD and DBA students through the first year of their studies and beyond.  I now lead one of my School’s Research Hubs but remain actively involved in our PhD programme.

There are two areas I would like to contribute to if elected.  The first is BAM’s role in helping researchers at all levels in developing their skills.  The second is to enhance BAM’s role as a vehicle for the cross- / interdisciplinary collaborations needed to address many of the issues we face as Management scholars.
 

Dr Muhammad Junaid Shahid Hasni

Institution: University of Trento, Italy

Position: Postdoctoral Research Fellow

I am a management scholar with a PhD in Economics and Management and currently serve as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Trento. My research spans consumer behavior, transformative service research (TSR), sustainability, and social impact, with publications in high-ranking journals such as the Journal of Business Ethics and European Journal of Marketing. I have been a BAM member since 2024 and actively engaged with the TSR SIG and sustainability-focused academic communities.

If elected, I would contribute to strengthening the visibility of emerging interdisciplinary research within BAM, especially across SIGs and the Research and Publications subcommittee. I am particularly committed to promoting sustainable research agendas and inclusive academic practices, aligning closely with BAM’s EDIR and Sustainability priorities. My experience in organising academic seminars, mentoring early-career researchers, and collaborative project work with universities and public institutions positions me well to support BAM’s capacity-building mission. I would be honoured to serve the BAM community and foster academic dialogue that bridges research, education, and societal relevance.
 

Dr Alexander Kofinas

Institution: University of Bedfordshire, UK

Position: Head of the Graduate School of Business

As a long serving member of BAM and a dedicated contributor to the knowledge and learning SIG and to the management education agenda it would be my honour to promote, support and foster the Management Knowledge and Education Sub-committee’s activities and research agenda.

I have had a long and cherished engagement and affiliation with the British Academy of Management since 2013 and I have been a member of the Knowledge and Learning SIG where I have acted as a co-track chair for three years. Most recently I led in running a GenAI in management and research symposium and I have been a dedicated participant and supporter of the K&L SIG and the wider MKE community. 

I combine both leadership qualities via my experience as Head of the Graduate school of Business and research credentials via my research activities in management education, especially in the areas of gamified learning and GenAI-informed authentic assessments. 

If elected, I support the MKE community in embedding EDIR in its activities and will endeavour to support the MKE in their efforts towards developing a novel GenAI-informed approach to Higher Education.
 

Dr Muhammad Mustafa Kamal

Institution: University of Exeter

Position: Head of Operations and Analytics (Management Department)

My affiliation with BAM spans nearly a decade, beginning in 2015 when I presented my first two papers at the University of Portsmouth. Since then, I have been a regular contributor to BAM conferences (2017, 2018, 2020, 2022, 2023, 2024), supporting doctoral researchers and ECRs/ECAs. This long-standing engagement reflects my commitment to fostering impactful and inclusive research that advances both theory and practice. Within the OLSCM SIG, I have taken on progressive roles: Social Media and Communications Officer (2022/23), Secretary (2024), and Co-SIG Chair (2025). These roles have expanded my insight into BAM’s operations and strengthened my commitment to fostering scholarly collaboration. 

I aim to join the Research & Publications Sub-Committee to help strengthen BAM’s research culture. I actively publish research (e.g., SC digitalisation, digital transformation, sustainability/circular economy)  in leading ABS 3 journals and currently serve as DE for JEIM (ABS 2), SE for ITP (ABS 3), and DE for IEEE TEM (ABS 3). I have led special issues in JBR, TFSC, ISF, IEEE TEM, with two more (one approved, one under review) in the pipeline (both ABS 3).
 
I aim to support and promote impactful scholarship, inclusive publishing practices, and capacity-building opportunities for researchers across BAM’s diverse community.
 

Dr Tianchen Li

Institution: Middlesex University London

Position: Senior Lecturer in International Management and Innovation 

The nominee is an established scholar specializing in entrepreneurship, innovation, technology management, and international business strategy, with a strong publication record in leading journals such as the Journal of World Business, International Business Review, and Journal of Business Research. His extensive experience as a peer reviewer for prestigious journals, including Journal of Business Venturing, Technovation, and Journal of Business Ethics, reflects his deep engagement with scholarly excellence and editorial rigor. 

Eager to contribute to the BAM Council's Research & Publications sub-committee, he aims to enhance journal engagement through methodological advisory support, mentor early-career researchers, and promote high-impact scholarship through capacity-building workshops. His leadership in organizing research initiatives and grant schemes will further strengthen the community's research ecosystem, while his international network fosters global collaborations among BAM members. Based in the UK, he is fully committed to attending all Council meetings and actively participating in both strategic planning and implementation of BAM's vision. He would be honoured to bring his expertise in research development, academic leadership, and community building to serve BAM's members and advance our collective impact in management scholarship.

Professor Jia Liu

Institution: University of Portsmouth

Position: Professor in Accounting and Finance. Director of the Centre for Innovative and Sustainable Finance

I have been a dedicated BAM member for 15 years,  serving the community for the past 6 as Chair of the Corporate Governance SIG and Track Chair. I led developmental workshops, symposiums, and CG-SIG conferences, supporting members in publishing research and building academic networks. I have been Associate Editor of  the British Journal of Management (3 years) and reviewed for BAM Grants for five years. Elected to Council in 2023, I co-led the REF2028 consultation, co-chaired CIMA and BAM Grant Schemes, and contributed to BAM’s overall research and publication policies.

I seek re-election to build on this foundation. As a woman from an ethnic minority, I advocate strongly for BAM’s stance on EDI and will promote inclusivity across all academic levels. I will strengthen collaborations between SIGs and facilitate external academic and business partnerships for members' impactful research. I'll continue to provide strong support for ECRs through workshops, mentoring and capacity-building programmes, and promote ethical, high-quality scholarship. I'll also work hard to nurture a collegial, forward-looking culture, enhancing members’ engagement and BAM’s reach and influence nationally and globally. I will do my utmost to make a positive contribution to BAM’s ongoing growth and development as a learned society.

Dr Karen Maher

Institution: Aston University

Position: Lecturer

BAM has been integral to my academic development, joining as a student member in 2013 during the first year of my PhD and then supporting the Organisational Psychology SIG as both conference track chair and SIG Chair until 2022. I'm a Chartered Psychologist with the British Psychological Society with a focus on physical and psychological health at work. My research explores health and well-being in critical workers, specifically in healthcare and the emergency services, and the design and evaluation of interventions to support good health at work. Having worked as a practitioner in occupational health and wellbeing for 15 years before moving to academia, the connections and networks made through BAM have strengthened my transition to an academic role.  

If elected, the focus for my term would be to develop on existing, and foster new, links between the Academy and practitioner bodies (e.g., ABP and CIPD) to support the impact of management research on practice. In addition, BAM’s development opportunities for Early Career Researchers has grown considerably since my joining, and I am keen to work closely with the ECR network on activities to support BAM’s diverse ECR community to thrive in the current challenging Higher Education environment. 

Dr Angela Marqui

Institution: University of Birmingham

Position: Associate Professor in Business Education

With over two decades of experience across academia and industry, I bring a strong background in operations management, curriculum innovation, and pedagogical leadership. I currently serve as Director of Undergraduate Programmes at Birmingham Business School, where I have also led the MBA portfolio and driven cross-disciplinary curriculum development.

My work has focused on embedding employability, sustainability, and responsible business into future-facing curricula. I have led the design of several new programmes and contributed to institutional quality assurance and strategic education initiatives. My research interests span pedagogical innovation, curriculum design, and operations management, and I actively contribute to the sector through Advance HE’s Fellowship Scheme at University of Birmingham.

If elected to the BAM Council, I would be honoured to contribute to the Management, Knowledge and Education (MKE) sub-committee. I am particularly passionate about fostering management education and would like to support the development and contribute to a calendar of CPD events to support BAM members in an environment of collegiality, community building, and knowledge exchange across the BAM network. I bring strategic insight, a collaborative ethos, and a commitment to advancing management education.
 

Dr Md Imtiaz Mostafiz

Institution: University of Leicester, UK

Position: Deputy Associate Dean of Research Excellence

I am honoured to have received the Global Talent Award from the British Academy and currently serve as the Track Chair for Entrepreneurship at BAM. My leadership responsibilities include overseeing the REF submission for UoA 17 within the College of Business at the University of Leicester. My research lies at the intersection of international entrepreneurship, strategic management, and behavioural science within entrepreneurial and global business contexts. My work has been published in journals, including the British Journal of Management, International Business Review, International Marketing Review, Journal of Business Research, R&D Management, etc.

My involvement with BAM has been extensive and sustained, including Chairing the Entrepreneurship Track at the BAM Annual Conference, and organising the Entrepreneurship SIG research Conferences in 2024 and 2025 at the University of Leicester. If elected, I will strengthen BAM’s scholarly ecosystem by promoting inclusive, cross-track collaboration, amplifying voices from the Global South, and advancing research in underexplored areas such as grand challenges in entrepreneurship, AI-led innovation, and SME internationalisation. I am fully committed to nurturing early-career scholars via developmental workshops and fostering interdisciplinary engagement across SIGs. I strongly align with BAM’s mission and aim to further its global research impact and member engagement.
 

Professor Surender Munjal

Institution: Aston University, UK

Position: Professor of International Business and Strategy

I am Professor of International Business and Strategy at Aston University, with previous academic leadership roles at the University of Leeds. My research explores international business, cross-border acquisitions, innovation, sustainability, and industrial clusters in emerging markets. I have published extensively in leading journals and serve on the editorial boards of Journal of Business Research, International Business Review, and Management International Review.

Within BAM, I currently serve as co-track chair for the Inter-Organizational Collaboration Track. This role has enabled me to contribute to the academic community by supporting the development of collaborative research and engaging with SIG activities. It has also deepened my understanding of BAM’s strategic goals and the importance of building an inclusive, dynamic research environment.

If elected to the BAM Council, I would like to contribute through the Research & Publications or Academic Affairs and Capacity Building sub-committees. I am particularly interested in enhancing support for early career researchers, advancing high-quality and impactful scholarship, and helping shape BAM’s initiatives around research culture, EDIR, and sustainability.

I am fully committed to active participation in Council and sub-committee meetings and view this as a valuable opportunity to give back to the BAM community and support its long-term vision.
 

Dr Vera Ndrecaj

Institution: Cardiff Metropolitan University

Position: Senior Lecturer

I am a dedicated academic with a background in management and organisational behaviour, currently serving as a lecturer at Cardiff Metropolitan University. My academic journey has included roles in teaching, research supervision, and curriculum development, with a strong emphasis on inclusive pedagogy and evidence-based practice. My research interests lie in leadership development, cross-cultural management, and the intersection of well-being and organisational performance. I am particularly passionate about exploring the lived experiences of underrepresented groups within leadership contexts.

My involvement with BAM to date has included regular participation in the annual conference and active engagement with relevant Special Interest Groups, particularly in the areas of leadership and organisational studies. These experiences have provided valuable opportunities to exchange ideas, receive constructive feedback, and build collaborative networks across institutions.

If elected, I would aim to strengthen BAM’s role in fostering early-career researcher engagement and promoting cross-institutional collaboration on practice-informed research. I am especially keen to contribute to initiatives that support greater diversity and inclusion within the academic management community. I believe my experience and values align closely with BAM’s mission and I would be honoured to contribute to its ongoing success.

Professor Wilson Ng

Institution: IDRAC Business School, France

Position: Professor of Entrepreneurship & Director of the Chair in Entrepreneurship & Disability

I am a management researcher of venture creation by entrepreneurs who face existential challenges from their physical and cognitive disabilities and/or from institutional and informal barriers. I have a 21-year record in financing startups and have co-founded technology ventures to assist entrepreneurs, for example in crowdfunding.
I have held elected roles in the Entrepreneurship SIG since 2010, including SIG Chair (2021-2024) and Track Chair (2018-2021). As SIG Chair I built up the capabilities of early career researchers by collaborating with research networks in universities and management associations in North America and Europe.

As a BAM Council member I would continue to build capacity, for example, in:

  • Developing impactful research from BAM publications and conferences by building on BAM’s research networks with scholars and managers of management associations in the UK, North America, and Europe to increase the public use of one another’s research; and
  • Research funding, by sharing knowledge, among researchers under a), of funding applications and funded/unsuccessful projects, and by organising events and spaces to discuss projects that seek collaborations.

This agenda follows BAM’s vision of building and disseminating knowledge among diverse audiences (a) who would use and exchange their own knowledge (b).

Dr King Omeihe

Institution: University of the West of Scotland

Position: Chair of African Studies

I am delighted to put myself forward for election to the BAM Council. I do so with a genuine commitment to service and a strong interest in supporting management research and education across the UK and beyond. My academic and professional journey aligns closely with BAM’s values, and I welcome the opportunity to contribute more directly through Council work, particularly in areas where I can add meaningful value.

My involvement with BAM began during my time as a doctoral student. Since then, I have become an active member, serving as co-chair of professional development workshops and as the co-founding chair of the BAM African Studies track. These roles have enabled me to engage with a wide and diverse community of scholars, and to support inclusive conversations across the Academy.

If elected to the Council, I would bring this experience to support the work of the Vice Chair for EDIR and Sustainability. I am especially passionate about supporting early career researchers and expanding the reach of SIG activities to underrepresented institutions and regions. I am committed to contributing my time and energy to BAM and would be proud to support its mission of building an inclusive and vibrant research community
 

Dr Sarah Otner

Institution: University of Sussex, UK

Position: Associate Professor (with tenure) of Innovation Management

Dr. Sarah Otner SFHEA, CMBE, ACAD MCIPD is a distinguished scholar. Her research has earned cumulatively over £1 Million including a British Academy Fellowship and an Imperial College Research Fellowship. She is an expert on innovation policy by prizes, within the fragrance industry and metascience. Sarah is core member of the BAM Peer Review College and the Creative and Cultural Industries SIG. Recent contributions include co-hosting a knowledge exchange event with creative practitioners at Newcastle, an invited presentation to a BAM-SIMA workshop, and an invited debate speech in the AIxCreativity symposium at Loughborough. The SIG Chair notes: “Sarah is very generous in sharing her knowledge and policy insights in ways that benefit BAM members and practitioners”. Sarah has governance experience through a variety of academic organizations including The British Academy, the ESRC, and the Administrative Science Quarterly editorial board, and the charity The Sir Richard Stapley Educational Trust. Sarah has developed strong networks across BAM, and is keen to build provision that develops mid-career academics through training, events, and networks. If elected, Sarah’s expertise in peer reviewing and researcher development, alongside her strong scholarly leadership record, would be an asset to the Research & Publications sub-committee in particular.

Dr Victoria Pagan

Institution: Newcastle University, UK

Position: Senior Lecturer in Strategic Management

Prior to becoming an academic, I spent nearly a decade working in commercial research and consultancy with a range of public sector clients. My research interests are qualitative and focus on knowledge (epistemic violence, epistemic injustice) and social justice, recently publishing on the misuses of NDAs in cases of workplace misconduct. 

BAM was my first academic conference, and I continue to engage with the CMS track, valuing their support to my work. I look forward to supporting the oversight of academic issues of the conference given its important influence on my own career. I contributed a session to the DPDoR in my former role as Director of EDI and I have also participated in other capacity building activities, including the ROP Programme, masterclasses and seminars. Given the benefits I have received from these events, I am pleased to offer my support to the development and monitoring of events and capacity building activities for all stages of the academic career, special interests, strategic priorities, and output development. I am committed to doing academic careers differently and would look to make my contribution in promoting parity of esteem and value across all facets of academia with particular regard to wellbeing and inclusion.

Dr Adam Poole

Institution: University of South Wales

Position: Head of Subject for Professional Development 

I have been an academic for just over a decade having completed my PhD examining Trust in the Financial Services Industry, in which I worked for several decades, primarily in Marketing Management.  

My research interests initially reflected this background but have evolved into research examining ethical aspects of digital technology usage in the consumer purchasing journey.  

I have also developed an interest in research focussing on maximising student employability.

I first joined BAM in 2014 and have been primarily involved with the Marketing and Retail SIG where I have served consecutively as PhD student rep, Treasure and Co-Chair (current position).  I also serve as a Track Chair for the Conference and mentor PhD students through the process of paper submission and presentation for the Symposium and Conference.

Moving forward, if I were elected a member of the BAM Council I would like to work with our SIG’s and Networks to support and encourage them in developing valuable and useful events and activities that help our members develop their careers from both the research and teaching perspectives, and also in developing and delivering events that enable members to embed student employability into their teaching.
 

 

Dr Neil Pyper

Institution: University of Birmingham

Position: Associate Professor of Stratetgy and International Business

I have a long association with BAM and love being part of this community. Following a five-year term as Treasurer, more recently I have been an elected member of Council and part of the Management Knowledge and Education (MKE) sub-committee. In this capacity, I organise the annual Education Practice Awards, have been involved in setting up the Education-Focused Professor alumni network and have been involved in building the Management Knowledge and Education presence on social media. 

I am a passionate advocate for the teaching and education career pathway. I have recently joined Birmingham Business School after serving as the Head of Education and Student Experience in the Faculty of Business and Law at Birkbeck, University of London. I work closely with Advance HE and am an experienced assessor of professional recognition applications, and mentor of colleagues seeking such recognition. 

I am seeking another term on the BAM Council to continue this work supporting colleagues seeking to develop university teaching careers in our field. I owe so much in my own career to my association with BAM, and hope to continue to have the chance to work to develop develop its work, especially in the area of MKE

Professor Roya Rahimi

Institution: University of Wolverhampton

Position: Professor in Marketing and Leisure Management 

Roya is Professor of Marketing and Leisure Management at the University of Wolverhampton, with an outstanding record in research leadership, capacity building, and academic citizenship.

She is an active member of BAM and a Fellow of the BAM Peer Review College. She currently serves as Research Capacity Development Lead for the Marketing and Retail SIG and leads the BAM-recognised Marketing Research Hub (MRH) at the University of Wolverhampton. In these roles, she has supported early-career researchers, enhanced national and international engagement, and built strong academic–industry links.

Her research focuses on consumer behaviour, AI in marketing and tourism, and women’s entrepreneurship—particularly in relation to digital upskilling and sustainable development. She has led major UK and international projects, including British Council-funded initiatives in Türkiye supporting women entrepreneurs post-earthquake. She is co-editor of seven published books and has authored over 50 peer-reviewed articles in leading journals. She also serves as Associate Editor for the Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Insights and the International Journal of Tourism Cities, and sits on several editorial boards.

If elected, Professor Rahimi will bring inclusive, globally informed leadership, a strong commitment to EDI, and a proven track record in supporting early-career researchers helping to shape BAM’s strategic direction and strengthen its national and international impact.

Dr Yashar Salamzadeh

Institution: University of Sunderland

Position: Senior Lecturer in Digital Business

I am writing to express my interest in joining the Research and Publication Sub-Committee. Research is a core part of my academic identity, demonstrated by around 4,000 citations to my published work, engagement in research-based consultancy, and my commitment to supporting the wider academic community. I bring 16-years of international academic experience across the Middle East, East Asia, Eastern Europe, and the UK, which has enabled collaborations with co-authors from over 20 countries.

My research focuses on digitalization and the human-centric role of AI in organizations, with broader interests in entrepreneurship, digital competencies, and the societal impact of digital transformation. I have actively participated to BAM through conference participation, presentations, and collaborative network building and as a member of BAM Peer Review College.

Being an editorial board member in a few journals, and a reviewer for over 50 academic journals, including guest editor roles for WoS-indexed journals, I am deeply invested in research quality and dissemination. 
I have also led capacity-building initiatives for early career researchers by launching and managing research clusters across three countries. My personal values strongly align with BAM’s values, and I am eager to contribute to strengthening our community’s research impact through this sub-committee.
 

Dr Gamila Mohamed Shoib

Institution: University of Bath

Position: Senior Lecturer in Information Systems

I am a Senior Lecturer in Information Systems at the School of Management, University of Bath, in the United Kingdom. My work over the course of nearly three decades has focused on information systems education. What we teach (future) managers about (emerging) technology is a theme that cuts across my teaching, education-research, and my engagement with industry. I have worked at various Universities in the UK, Egypt, and Australia but also in industry in the management of information systems and as a founding entrepreneur involved with several start-ups in technology tutoring, language editing and translation, and brewing. 

As an alumna of the BAM EfP programme (Class of 2024), I have been the grateful beneficiary of the impactful activities and opportunities that the MKE sub-committee organise. If elected, I would seek to carry the torch of MKE development, leading and supporting initiatives that transform education practice, pedagogy, and policy, through colleagues’ engagement from across research, teaching, and practice. 

My multifaceted, multicultural, and multinational experiences as an educator, researcher, practitioner, and entrepreneur give me rich and diverse frames of reference that inform a sensitive, inclusive, and considered approach, which is focused on promoting and enabling human equity and thoughtful adoption of technologies.   
 

Professor Rudolf Sinkovics

Institution: Durham University, UK

Position: Professor of Strategy and International Business

I bring extensive experience and a deep commitment to the British Academy of Management, having served as Track Chair for the IM/IB track (pre-2010) and recently commencing a new term as Co-Track Chair for 2025. As a Fellow of the BAM Peer Review College, I am particularly passionate about advancing research and publication activities. I am eager to support initiatives that open up scholarly work, encourage innovation, and expand access.

I have a strong interest in the open science and data space, an area currently underserved in business and management. I believe BAM is uniquely positioned to lead by establishing a society-backed data journal, promoting transparency and impact beyond traditional publishing models. My published research on journal rankings and the publication landscape, featured in the Journal of World Business, Omega, and an open-access database, positions me well to contribute to strategic discussions around new publication platform initiatives, AJG developments, and the future of scholarly communication.

If elected, I will work to ensure research funding opportunities are broadened, diverse career paths recognised, and BAM’s journal ecosystem strengthened for the benefit of our entire scholarly community.

S. Asieh H. Tabaghdehi

Institution: Brunel University London

Position: Senior Lecturer in Strategy and Business Economy

It is with great interest that I express my candidacy for the BAM Council as a committed academic and practitioner working at the intersection of data economy, AI ethic, responsible innovation& sustainability. I am a senior lecturer in Strategy& Business Economy, programme director of BSc International Business at Brunel University of London, and impact lead at the Brunel Centre for AI. My work explores the societal and economic implications of emerging technologies, bridging academic research with public policy and practice.

I have recently co-led UKRI/ESRC-funded projects and contributed to government policymaking through oral and written evidence on responsible digital innovation and SME development. I also designed the Digital Adoption module for the UK Government’s Help-to-Grow programme, supporting small business leaders nationally in applying ethical digital strategies.

Beyond academia, I serve on strategic boards, advisory committees& research networks nationally and internationally. I am fellow of the Higher Education Academy and selected member of the UKRI/ESRC and BAM Review Colleges, Energy Institute UK, Social Value International, TechUK (Ethical AI Group), and the APPG AI.

Based in the UK, I am fully committed to actively contributing to BAM Council and its sub-committees, particularly in Management, Knowledge and Education, and EDIR and Sustainability.
 

Dr Preethi Thankappan-Nair

Institution: University of East London

Position: Business Strategy Lecturer

I am seeking election to the role of Council for Academic Affairs of Conference and Capacity Building to contribute to shaping and enhancing engagement and academic capacity within the BAM community.

My academic and professional journey have provided me with a rich breadth of relevant experience. In my role as PhD representative for the IOC SIG at BAM, I have arranged online writing retreats for researchers both at BAM and within my own institution, which speaks to my commitment to enhancing research engagement and supporting emerging scholars. As Associate Director for MBA Community Events in my own institution, I design and lead on a range of inclusive activities aimed at enhancing engagement and wellbeing in students and staff. Previously in professional practice I organized peer reviewed professional conferences and community drives. All these activities involving collaboration with a range of cross-institutional parties, researchers and professionals within industry, aided in developing my skills in community building, problem solving, advocacy, influence, change management, relationship building and policy development. 

I bring to the Council role extensive experience in design, capacity building, and governance. I would be honoured to work collaboratively with colleagues to advance BAM’s strategic goals in academic affairs and capacity development. 
 

Dr Barbara Tomasella

Institution: University of Derby, UK

Position: Senior Lecturer

I am an Assistant Professor (Senior Lecturer) in Marketing at the University of Derby. As a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and Fellow of the Institute of Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability, I bring together academic excellence with real-world industry experience to prepare future business leaders. My research interests span Social/Sustainability Marketing, Corporate Social Responsibility, Social Entrepreneurship, and Education for Sustainable Development.

In my BAM Council role, I would focus on three key areas. My leadership experience includes serving as Deputy Lead of the Sustainable Business and Green Growth cluster since 2024 and on my University's College Research Council since 2023, providing valuable academic governance experience. I excel in developing capacity building initiatives, having organized multi-institutional workshops and secured grants from the British Academy, Enterprise Education UK, and Academy of Marketing for pedagogical research projects that strengthen academic communities. I am particularly well-positioned to support the Vice Chair for EDIR and Sustainability through my active membership in the Sustainable Business SIG, extensive sustainability research expertise, and practical governance experience. My work embedding sustainability mindset principles in business education aligns perfectly with BAM's commitment to responsible management education, bringing both theoretical knowledge and strategic leadership to advance BAM's sustainability agenda.
 

Dr. Vartika Varyani

Institution: Jaipuria Institute of Management, Jaipur, India

Position: Assistant Professor

As a young faculty member and early-career researcher, I bring with me fresh perspectives and strong motivation to contribute meaningfully to the BAM community. My current research interests lie at the intersection of employee trauma, education, and organisational behaviour, with a particular focus on understanding how individuals and institutions navigate complex challenges and adapt in dynamic environments.

Though I am relatively new to academia, I am passionate about creating impactful scholarship and fostering inclusive academic networks. I believe that fresh voices play a vital role in shaping future dialogues in management research, and I am committed to bringing energy, innovation, and integrity to this role.

My involvement with BAM so far has included participation in thematic workshops and following the activities of various Special Interest Groups. If elected, I aim to increase early-career engagement, encourage cross-institutional collaboration, and promote underexplored topics such as trauma-informed organisational practices. I see this position as a meaningful opportunity to contribute to a thriving research community, while also learning from experienced colleagues.

Eager to give back to the profession, I hope to channel my academic enthusiasm and collaborative spirit into supporting BAM’s mission and initiatives.

Dr Nadine Watson

Institution: University of Salford

Position: Interim Associate Dean Student Experience

I am an academic leader with responsibilities spanning student experience, employability, academic and pastoral support, and NSS, TEF, and Graduate Outcome metrics. I work with the Students' Union to enhance student voice and engagement. A Fellow of the HEA and MCIPD, I also serve as an external examiner at the University of Hertfordshire.

My teaching spans undergraduate and postgraduate CIPD-accredited programmes, informed by a professional background in HRM. I also lead on EDI for colleagues within my school, overseeing the Athena Swan action plan implementation.

My pedagogic research explores constructivist and immersive approaches to learning within B&M education. I explore the impact of early industry immersion on student development, introduced during week two of their programme. This research pays particular attention to the experiences of widening participation students. Using a qualitative methodology, my work draws on the richness of student narratives to inform best practice within my institution and beyond.

Currently enrolled in the Becoming an Education Focused Professor (EFP) programme, I will present at the upcoming BAM MKE conference. If elected, I would welcome the opportunity to support the MKE group through active contribution, co-delivery of future EFP programmes, and promotion of inclusive, evidence-based approaches to management education.
 

Professor Xue Zhou

Institution: University of Leicester, UK

Position: Professor in AI in Business Education; Associate Dean of Education

I am honoured to stand for the BAM Council in the Management, Knowledge and Education (MKE) track. My work focuses on the integration of artificial intelligence in management education, with a strong emphasis on digital pedagogy, curriculum innovation, and staff-student co-creation. I have secured BAM MKE funding (2023) to support AI-enhanced peer learning and was recognised with the British Academy of Management Education Practice Award (Highly Commended, 2023). With extensive experience in educational leadership and AI literacy initiatives, I have led interdisciplinary projects that bridge academic research with practical teaching impact. I regularly contribute to the BAM community through research, workshops, and best practice dissemination.

If elected, I will advocate for inclusive, future-facing educational practices that support both staff and student development. I am committed to fostering dialogue around digital transformation, ethical AI use, and innovative pedagogies that enhance management learning. I will also support members in accessing opportunities for funding, collaboration, and knowledge exchange.
It would be a privilege to represent the MKE community and contribute to shaping the future of management education through evidence-informed, practice-driven approaches.


Please note that all votes are checked to ensure that they have been cast by eligible voters. If you are an eligible voter (i.e. with current membership of BAM on the date that poll opened) you will have received your voting link direct from us. 

The closing date for votes to be returned will be noon on Tuesday 8th July.

Canvassing of any sort – whether direct or indirect – is not permitted. Individuals standing for election have set out their qualification for the role in the statements published on our website and it is expected that voters will engage with the quality of that proposal alone.