news-from-the-business-school

Exploring research secrets: Dr Angell's insights into the power of online reviews

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0100

Celebrating Belynda's successful PhD defence: understanding online complaints

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0100

Dr. Zhiying Ben (Belynda) celebrates the success of her PhD

University of Southampton Business School Partners with MTD

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0000

SBS alumnus receives prestigious India UK Achievers Honour

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Global Leadership Conference 2022 at University of Southampton Malaysia

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0100

Dr Yusuf Ag Engages in High-Level Discussion on Sustainability Reporting at FRC Roundtable

Dr Yusuf Ag, Teaching Fellow in the Department of Accounting at Southampton Business School, recently took part in an influential discussion hosted by the Financial Reporting Council (FRC). On 27th June 2024, Dr Ag presented key scientific evidence during the ‘FRC Roundtable: Assurance of Sustainability Reporting Market Study,’ contributing valuable insights into the evolving landscape of sustainability reporting and its assurance.

With sustainability reporting becoming increasingly critical for both companies and regulators, Dr Ag’s involvement highlights Southampton Business School’s active role in shaping the future of corporate accountability. A follow-up consultation meeting is scheduled for 14th October 2024, signalling continued engagement in this important area.

To read the full comment letter published by the FRC, click here.

Systems thinking and Leadership Development Executive Education course

Over the course of five immersive days, we not only delved into the conceptual frameworks of systems thinking and leadership but also explored practical tools and techniques to apply to real-world challenges. The discussions were rich and, together, we examined how understanding the interconnectedness within organisations can lead to more efficient delivery and better decision-making.

By recognising patterns, feedback loops, and interdependencies, we can improve problem-solving and create lasting solutions. Additionally, being a systems leader means adopting a holistic approach, leading with a deep awareness of the larger system and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.

New Forest Business Partnership Brilliance in Business Awards

The University of Southampton Business School was proud to sponsor the ‘Entrepreneur of the Year’ category. Director of KEE Professor Jeni Giambona had the pleasure to meet and interview the three outstanding finalists and present the award to the winner, Angie Beeston of Evolution 4 Business Ltd.

Angie hasn't just led a business - she's illuminated paths for countless others. Part visionary, part mentor, Angie has that magical ability to see the sparkle of potential in both people and organisations, even when they can't yet see it themselves.

LEiRs Seminar – Effective outcomes for major projects

This engaging discussion explored how clients can drive more effective outcomes for major projects. Emma-Jane delved into the current client model’s effectiveness in delivering outcomes and benefits in complex projects.

The seminar not only shared key insights but also invited participants to contribute their own perspectives, fuelling the ongoing research. This work builds on Emma-Jane’s influential pieces, "Let's Harness the Power of the Incomplete Client" and “Engineering Rebellion”, continuing her journey to reimagining client leadership in complex project delivery.

Industry Leader in Complex Systems Joins Southampton Business School LEiRs

In addition to his industry roles, Tim is an Industrial Supervisor at University College London (UCL) and has been a Visiting Lecturer at Birmingham City University and the University of East London. His teaching focuses on systems thinking and complex systems in real-world applications. Tim's research interests are centered around complex systems and their emergent behaviours, with a practical approach for practitioners.

Tim is a Fellow of the Institution of Engineering and Technology (FIET), a Fellow of the Institution of Railway Signal Engineers (FIRSE), and a Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (SMIEEE).

The Myth of Meritocracy: Rethinking Inequality in Organizational Studies

Executive Learning Workshops on AI and Digital Transformation

Please see below the details for all upcoming workshops.

1) Date: Thursday 13 March 2025, 10am – 4pm
Title: Digital transformation and the tragedy of the commons: how systems thinking can address thinking in silos and maximise benefits of GenAI

Description:Fostering the culture of continuous innovation and practical implementation of GenAI in an organisation requires getting teams from different organisational departments together with technologists, with an understanding of how decisions and actions of each team affect the entire organisation. This approach challenges the “tragedy of the commons” in an organisation, which is typically characterised by different teams acting in silos, in their own, short-term interest, competing for shared resources rather than collaborating for shared, long-term success. Through this highly interactive, one-day workshop you will learn how to engage stakeholders and increase collaboration within an organisation to maximise benefits of GenAI and build AI-related skills, applying systems thinking and systems approach.

Who is it for: The workshop is for managers, senior leaders, and any participant from industry interested in the topic.
Speakers:Dr Jelena Petrovic & Professor Jeni Giambona

2) Date: Wednesday 30 April 2025, 10am – 4pm
Title: Strategic leadership skills: How to get senior leadership buy-in for digital transformation

Description: Boards are expected to understand the opportunities and risks of genAI and play a critical role in shaping the right culture for digital transformation. However, many companies are unwilling to take risk to invest and change, despite a potential opportunity for revenue growth through digital transformation. This highly interactive, one-day workshop will help you assess your strategic leadership skills and learn about behaviours needed to influence board decisions and get senior leadership buy-in for digital transformation.

Who is it for: The workshop is for aspiring, new and established board directors, staff members that work closely with boards, and
any participant from industry interested in the topic.
Speakers: Dr Jelena Petrovic & Dr Richard Cartwright

3) Date:Thursday 12 June 2025 (tbc.), 10am – 4pm
Title: Is AI your enemy? Being the AI Savvy Leader

Description: Digital transformation concerns integrating digital technology in all areas of its business, which changes how an organisation operates and is expected to offer better value to customers. When people are reluctant to embrace digital transformation, normally it is not that they are afraid of technology but of what it could mean for their role. This highly interactive, one-day workshop focuses on AI as a leadership challenge. You will learn how, as a leader, you can help people embrace AI and digital transformation.

Who is it for: The workshop is for managers and senior leaders.
Speakers: Dr Jelena Petrovic & Dr Nicholas Dacre (tbc.)

4) Date:Wednesday 16 July 2025, 10am – 4pm
Title: AI and workplace wellbeing: Who’s taking care of you?

Description: AI has the potential to impact our sense of control and psychological safety at work, which could increase our work-related stress and adversely affect our wellbeing. In this highly interactive, one-day workshop you will have an opportunity to analyse organisational risk factors brought by AI and digital transformation, which affect your wellbeing at work, and learn how you can support your own wellbeing via coaching style conversations or self-coaching reflections.
Speakers: Dr Jelena Petrovic & Dr Yi-Ling Lai

For registration or further information, please contact Dr Jelena Petrovic, j.petrovic@soton.ac.uk.

Executive Learning Workshops - AI as a Leadership Challenge

Digital transformation concerns integrating digital technologies, such as AI, in all areas of business. As a result, an organisation will change the way it operates and is expected to offer better value to customers.

However, digital transformation is not just a matter of technology. What do Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital transformation mean for organisations in terms of leadership, governance, people, and culture? These are key questions for any business and some of the topics we are going to delve into in our forthcoming ELWs.

By developing competencies in these areas, companies can use AI more effectively, future-proof their workforce, improve agility, and seize new opportunities in an increasingly tech-driven economy. Digital transformation is here to stay and without the required skills across all organisational functions, businesses risk falling behind in terms of productivity, innovation, and market relevance.

The ELWs are delivered in-person by experts from academia, and tailored for managers, senior leaders, board directors, and industry professionals who are keen to explore these cutting-edge topics. By blending academic rigour with practical application, the ELWs will make a real difference to your organisation and help your continuous professional development.

Join us at the University of Southampton Business School for an enriching learning experience. Please see below the details for all upcoming ELWs.

Title: Digital transformation and the tragedy of the commons: how systems thinking can address thinking in silos and maximise benefits of GenAI

Date: Thursday 2 April 2025, 10am – 4pm

Description: Through this highly interactive, one-day workshop you will learn how to maximise the benefits of GenAI in your organisation by applying systems thinking. Organisations are typically characterised by teams acting in silos, focusing on their own, short-term outputs and competing for organisational resources, rather than collaborating for common, long-term success. Systems thinking is a holistic approach that shows why it is essential for all organisational stakeholders - including technologists - to work together to foster a collective understanding of how individual decisions impact the entire organisation. This workshop will provide an introduction to systems thinking and systems leadership, equipping you with the tools to engage stakeholders, promote cross-departmental collaboration, and drive a culture of continuous innovation. By applying these principles, your organisation will be better positioned to achieve successful digital transformation.

Who is it for: The workshop is for managers, senior leaders, and any participant from industry interested in the topic.
Speakers: Dr Jelena Petrovic & Professor Jeni Giambona

Title: Strategic leadership skills: How to get senior leadership buy-in for digital transformation

Date: Wednesday 30 April 2025, 10am – 4pm

Description: Boards are expected to understand the opportunities and risks of genAI and play a critical role in shaping the right culture for digital transformation. However, many companies are unwilling to take the risk to invest in change, despite a potential opportunity for revenue growth through digital transformation. This highly interactive, one-day workshop will help you assess your strategic leadership skills and learn about behaviours needed to influence board decisions and get senior leadership buy-in for digital transformation.

Who is it for: The workshop is for aspiring, new, and established board directors, staff members who work closely with boards, and any participant from industry interested in the topic.
Speakers: Dr Jelena Petrovic & Dr Richard Cartwright

Title: Is AI your enemy? Being the AI Savvy Leader

Date: Thursday 12 June 2025 , 10am – 4pm

Description: When people are reluctant to embrace AI, normally it is not that they are afraid of this technology but of what this “new employee” could mean for their role. Therefore, it is important that leaders focus on people’s reactions to AI, and not the other way around. In this highly interactive, one-day workshop you will learn how, as a leader, you can help people in your organisation embrace AI and digital transformation.

Who is it for: The workshop is for managers and senior leaders.
Speakers: Dr Jelena Petrovic

Title: AI and workplace wellbeing: Who’s taking care of you?

Date: Wednesday 16 July 2025, 10am – 4pm

Who is it for: Participants from industry interested in the topic.

Speakers: Dr Jelena Petrovic & Dr Yi-Ling Lai

For registration or further information, please contact Dr Jelena Petrovic, j.petrovic@soton.ac.uk.

New Forest Business Partnership (NFBP) Visits Southampton Business School

It was a productive day filled with events, where SBS representatives engaged in constructive dialogue with local stakeholders and enterprises. The day began with SBS, a member of the NFBP Advisory Group, participating in the Advisory Group meeting held in our state-of-the-art facilities. Stakeholders from various sectors gathered to discuss the current business landscape and share their perspectives on the economic challenges and opportunities in our region.

The meeting kicked off with an engaging presentation by Prof. Jeni Giambona, Associate Dean of Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise at SBS, who provided an overview of SBS activities across all three areas of the Triple Helix (Education, Research, Knowledge Exchange, and Enterprise) and how these can benefit local businesses. This was followed by two insightful presentations from a representative of the Hampshire Growth Hub and UK Export Finance, and a stimulating round-table discussion on the local economy.

Later, we welcomed numerous professionals and local businesses to the LinkedIn Local New Forest networking event, organised by NFBP. While enjoying nibbles and refreshments in a relaxed atmosphere, participants had the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals and share their experiences on common issues, challenges, and achievements. It was inspiring to witness genuine connections forming throughout the event. Additionally, attendees were keen to learn about the university's offerings for SMEs and explore potential events and programs they could participate in.

For more information about our activities and how to collaborate with us, contact our Associate Dean of Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise, Professor Jeni Giambona, j.giambona@soton.ac.uk .

Exciting Launch of SBS Sustainability Report!

The event was opened by Professor Jeni Giambona (SBS Associate Dean, Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise) who welcomed participants and highlighted the significance of both industry and academic presence at the launch. SBS Dean, Professor Laura Costanzo, then delivered her opening remarks. Professor Costanzo stressed that sustainability is built into everything we do within the business school, from teaching to knowledge exchange and our civic commitment to research. Dr Pingli Li, Head of the SBS Accounting Department, then introduced the SBS Sustainability Report Project, explaining its significance. Professor Mark Spearing, Vice President (Research and Enterprise) at the University of Southampton, talked about the importance of sustainability within the wider institution and facilitated a Q&A session.

The event featured engaging presentations by the Sustainability Reporting Team (Prof. Ven Tauringana, Dr. Renata Konadu), an industry speaker, Dr Cerys Baigent, and a student representative, Mr Callum Hodgson, who shared their experience from their involvement in the Sustainability Reporting initiatives.

As the SBS Dean emphasises in the report:

"We recognise that education plays a pivotal role in addressing the global climate crisis, and we remain dedicated to equipping our students, staff, and business partners with the knowledge and skills necessary to make meaningful contributions.

As part of these efforts, SBS is proud to be the first UK business school accredited by the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) to offer certified Sustainability Reporting Training. Sustainability is firmly embedded in our curriculum, and we collaborate closely with industry partners, including SMEs and charities, to assist in the preparation of their sustainability reports.

This report highlights the impact of our own operations on business, the environment and society, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to sustainable development and to contributing to the achievement of the UN SDGs."

Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to this important milestone!

You can read the full report here.

New Forest Business Partnership (NFBP) Visits Southampton Business School

For more information about our activities and how to collaborate with us, contact our Associate Dean of Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise, Professor Jeni Giambona, j.giambona@soton.ac.uk .

I fought the AI and AI won. Or did it? Constructive conversation workshops in London

“Great speakers and very valuable discussions. It was good to have people from different industries as well, so we can share experiences.”

The first workshop, titled "I fought the AI and the AI Won. Or did it?”, focused on harnessing the potential of GenAI while navigating complexities, risks, and ethical dilemmas organisations face in AI integration. Some of the topics explored included the paradox of AI - promise and perils; synergising human and artificial intelligence; communication protocols with AI: crafting effective prompts for tools like ChatGPT and Copilot; safeguarding corporate integrity in the age of AI: protecting organisations from information leaks and “bad actors”; oversight and governance. The workshop included a roundtable in the end, focusing on crafting an AI roadmap for each of the participant organisations. A guest speaker at the workshop was Head of Digital Transformation at NatWest Group.

“The presentation and format were great. Good interaction with a wide range of individuals and industries”.

“Format of session - presentation followed by discussions worked really well!”

The second workshop "Transforming Business Culture with AI" focused on the topics that emerged from the first workshop, including fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation in the AI-driven environment, getting senior leadership buy-in, creating a psychologically safe environment for people, and collaboration within an organisation to maximise benefits of GenAI. An independent NED was a guest speaker.

“Please organise these events more often. It is a great opportunity to learn new things and also network with others.”

The workshops attracted interest from managers and directors from a number of different industries, including some working in well-known organisations such as Amazon, Compass Group, Euronet Worldwide, Guild of Freemen, Hikvision, HS2, IBM, Ipsos, Kao UK, KBR, Reach, RNLI, Standard Chartered Bank. The participant feedback was really good.

“Very informative and thought-provoking workshop. I would love to attend further follow up sessions on AI”

Professor Jeni Giambona featured in the 100th episode of The Infrastructure Podcast

Professor Giambona is Associate Dean of Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise and a Member of the Centre for Resilient Socio-Technical Systems at the University of Southampton Business School (SBS). Additionally, Jeni has gained a wealth of experience in the Higher Education sector over last two decades, where she focuses on enhancing the links between academia and industry to foster innovation and elevate the sector's outputs. Illustrating the School's success, Jeni shared examples from her work that highlight how SBS maintains strong and dynamic connections with industry. Furthermore, Jeni explained how she is leading a team of committed academics and professionals who are dedicated to promoting the principles of Systems Thinking and Systems Leadership by designing and delivering executive education courses tailored to this approach and offering relevant seminars.

The main points discussed during the podcast were:

Why embracing a systems approach is critical
The necessity to intensify collaboration and engagement within the supply chain
How a deeper understanding of digital technologies and new data can facilitate a better of infrastructure

You can listen to the whole episode here.

Executive Learning Workshop: How to get senior leadership buy-in for digital transformation

Speakers:

Jelena Petrovic, Associate Professor (Principal Enterprise Fellow), Southampton Business School

Dr Jelena Petrovic is Associate Professor (Principal Enterprise Fellow) at the University of Southampton Business School, Chair of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) Branch in South West London, and Knowledge Transfer Editor of Human Resource Management (a Financial Times Top 50 Business Journal published by Wiley). Jelena is interested in transforming knowledge and ideas into action and is actively engaged in industry collaborations through design and delivery of executive development programmes, knowledge exchange, consultancy, and research. Examples include Park Plaza Hotels, the NHS, Volvo Cars, the Guardian, BT, the CIPD, and Mercer (ORC Worldwide). Jelena has 30 years of experience in teaching, research, and consultancy in corporate governance and strategic international human resource management in the UK and internationally. She has received the European Foundation for Management Development (EFMD) and Emerald Publishing Group award for her PhD in Strategic Leadership and Governance, and was awarded the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office Chevening Scholarship for her MSc in human resource management.

Richard Cartwright, Principal Enterprise Fellow and Help to Grow Programme Director, Southampton Business School

Richard Cartwright is a Principal Enterprise Fellow and Director of Help to Grow programme at Southampton Business School, a Chartered Accountant and Non-Executive Director. He began his career at KPMG, where he qualified as an ACA after completing a BSc in Economics at the University of Birmingham. Moving into academia in 2012, Richard joined Southampton Business School in 2015, specialising in teaching Audit and advancing student development through co-curricular activities. He has pioneered the use of ICAEW educational films in universities and presents sessions at UK and international conferences. Off campus, Richard serves as a Non-Executive Director at Places for People, a Governor at Motability, and an Independent External Member of the Audit and Risk Assurance Committee at the National Audit Office and Abri Group. A former ICAEW Council member, he remains an active member of his professional institute. Richard was recognised in the 2018 Shaw Trust Power List as one of the UK’s most influential disabled people.

Announcing the Inaugural Edition of our KEE Newsletter

This newsletter is designed to bridge the dynamic initiatives within our business school with the broader community of external stakeholders. Through this newsletter, we aim to showcase KEE activities and collaborative opportunities that drive real-world impact, innovation and growth. Whether you are a partner, alumnus, or prospective collaborator, this is your window into how our expertise and resources can support and inspire shared success. So, have a look at what we are doing and planning to do in the forthcoming months. Let’s connect, exchange ideas, co-create a shared journey and fuel growth together!

Professor Jeni Giambona, Associate Dean of Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise, University of Southampton Business School

We encourage you to explore the full newsletter and stay connected with us.

Policy work for the UK Parliament by members of Department of HRM and Organisational Behaviour

Dr Jane Parry

The work is led by Dr Jane Parry, an Associate Professor of Work and Employment in the Department. Jane is the UK Parliament’s first Thematic Research Lead on Business, Economics and Trade, an initiative that is part of a major investment by UKRI to ensure that the UK’s cutting-edge research base informs the policy process.

Dr Jelena Petrovic

Dr Naveena Prakasam

Ms Sian Cambell

Dr Krish Vithana

In the 2024 parliamentary horizon scanning exercise, Dr Jelena Petrovic, Dr Naveena Prakasam, and Ms Sian Cambell from HRMOB Department, together with Dr Krish Vithana from Accounting, acted as academic reviewers for the published scans that provide accessible introductions to emerging policy issues for the next five years. These scans are key resources for parliamentarians as well as the wider audience, synthesising evidence, so it is crucial that they are verified by both internal and external experts. The subsequent horizon scans are attracting some of the highest viewing figures on the Parliamentary website.

Dr Michalis Veliziotis

Dr Michalis Veliziotis provided expertise on how the Commons Library could integrate more academic evidence into a complex economic enquiry from a MP. Jane subsequently ran a session to the Economic Policy and Statistics team in the House of Commons Library to explore how academic evidence can be utilised more frequently in responding to questions from Members (and thus feed directly into debate in the Chamber), and to explore issue around access and evidence quality. Library analysts are particularly keen to have access to more short-form academic outputs, due to both time pressures and journal access barriers. Here the kind of Knowledge Exchange work that Dr Jelena Petrovic does as Knowledge Transfer Editor of HRM, a FT Top 50 journal, as well as blogging that academics do around their findings, such as in The Conversation or the LSE Impact blog, can be a game-changer in making these connections.

Dr Yi-Ling Lai

Dr Yi-Ling Lai has provided invaluable context around coaching initiatives to inform a UK Parliament inquiry on Jobcentre Plus for the Work and Pensions select Committee. Coaching into work is an area that the UK Government wants to develop and are keen to learn from the evidence base.

In her work as UK Parliament thematic research lead, Jane is currently supporting four select committees as they run inquiries around the Employment Rights Bill: Women and Equalities, Business and Trade, Work and Pensions, and a Lords special inquiry on home working in the UK. This involves scoping inquiries, drafting questions for evidence calls, suggesting witnesses, and supporting subsequent reports. She has also supported the Public Bill Committee as they drafted amendments around the Employment Rights Bill (ERB), the first time that an academic has been involved in this capacity. She is part of the team who wrote the ERB parliamentary briefing paper, which has been accessed over 20,000 times by policymakers since October.

Jane is currently developing and implementing a training programme on policy engagement with PhD students from the South Coast DTP. This three-part programme involves engagement with parliamentary policy fellowships, exploring ways to connect research with parliament, and a fieldtrip to Westminster with the students where they will meet parliamentary stakeholders in a range of careers.

Southampton Business School Future Leaders Dinner

The event was designed to ignite inspiration among students, fostering their ambitions and aspirations. The gathering was characterised by a vibrant and engaging atmosphere that not only motivated students but also solidified connections with key stakeholders and strengthened our community-building efforts.

As the SBS Dean, Professor Laura Costanzo highlighted, employability is of paramount importance for university students in today's volatile landscape. At SBS, we are dedicated to setting our students up for success through a variety of initiatives that provide them with opportunities to connect with leaders from diverse industries and equip them with a robust skillset that makes them highly desirable to employers. With the Triple Helix at the core of our operations - Research, Education, Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise (KEE) - we foster a harmonious symbiosis that enables us to equip our students with all the traits necessary to be competitive in their journey towards securing their dream job.

Additionally, we were honoured to have one of our distinguished SBS alumni, Victoria Sedgley, who delivered an inspiring keynote speech, providing valuable insights to our students. Victoria's key message to our future leaders was to focus on people in order to build successful communities.

As Professor Jeni Giambona, SBS Associate Dean of KEE, emphasised in her closing comments, initiatives such as the Future Leaders Dinner seek to cultivate and strengthen the bonds between SBS and its external partners with a view to giving our students tangible opportunities to engage with industry and develop their employability skills.

We are excited about the future and the endless possibilities that lie ahead for our students and strategic partners. Together, we will continue to build a thriving community where innovation, collaboration and success are at the forefront.

Dr Jelena Petrovic was a keynote speaker at Ipsos

Jelena talked about how academia ensures that graduates have the right skills to address contemporary business challenges. The topics explored at the event also included how technology is changing learning and development strategies and the skills needed for workforce to succeed in an AI-driven world.

Jelena was joined by Ian Walker, Senior Director, Global Learning & Development at Salesforce, Helen Chesney, Head of Learning, Skills & Talent Management at Ipsos UK, Sophie Norton from Ipsos, and Konstantinos Tasis, Learning and Development Manager at Ipsos UK, who chaired the event.

Jelena’s presentation was informed by colleagues from the Business School, so a special thanks goes to them!

Amanda Beable Joins University of Southampton Business School as New Leader in Residence

With extensive experience in strategic, program, and operational leadership, Amanda excels in transforming teams and driving efficiency. Her collaborative and purpose-oriented leadership style has led to significant improvements in customer service, employee retention, and budget management. Amanda is adept at creating innovative strategies to solve complex problems and translating them into actionable programs. Her commercial acumen, developed through roles in energy trading and entrepreneurship, complements her ability to drive operational excellence and continuous improvement.

Amanda is a valuable addition to our LEiRs and we look forward to working with her.

CMR members at the 2025 AMA Winter Academic Conference

Dr. Daisy Jing Lyu, an early career researcher (ECR) of the department, presented her intriguing research on the effects of atmospheric cues on live streaming effectiveness. Titled "How Do Atmospheric Cues Impact Live Streaming Effectiveness? A Comparison Study Between Eastern and Western Marketplaces," Dr. Lyu’s study explored the distinct ways in which environmental factors influence audience engagement and purchasing behavior across different cultural contexts. This comparative analysis between Eastern and Western marketplaces offered fresh insights into the psychological and sensory aspects of digital marketing, particularly in the rapidly evolving live-streaming industry.

In addition to this, Dr. Lyu presented another significant piece of work titled "Exploring Innovative UGC as a Branding Tactic in the Digital Era." This paper, based on the dissertation of one of the department’s students Otmane Yessouf, delved into the strategic use of user-generated content (UGC) in shaping brand narratives. The research examined how brands can harness authentic, user-generated content to build trust and foster deeper connections with their target audiences.

Prof. Jaywant Singh also made an important contribution to the conference, presenting his research on the evolving role of social media influencers in shaping consumer behavior. Drawing from his British Academy funded research, Prof. Singh explored how influencers can effectively engage with online audiences and drive brand awareness, providing a valuable perspective on the intersection of social media, consumer psychology, and marketing strategy.

The research from Professor Singh and Dr. Lyu reinforces the department's commitment to research-led teaching and learning, positioning the University of Southampton Business School at the forefront of innovative marketing research.

Shades of Influence: How Skin Tone Shapes Consumer Choices in Fashion Rentals

In this ongoing research, Dr. Wei and her co-authors investigate how skin colour subtly but powerfully shapes product selection in the context of online fashion rentals. By analysing user-generated content including selfies and product reviews on a fashion rental platform, the researchers observed a compelling pattern: consumers are more likely to follow the product choices of individuals with similar skin tones.

What makes the findings particularly noteworthy is the asymmetry in influence. While light-skinned renters tend to be followed by both light-skinned and some dark-skinned consumers, dark-skinned renters are predominantly followed by others who share their skin tone. This suggests that social identification and perceived similarity play a stronger role for consumers with darker skin, shedding light on how group-based social cues shape decision-making in digital environments.

These insights have meaningful implications for inclusive marketing, product representation, and platform design in the fashion-sharing economy. The team’s experiments are ongoing, so stay tuned for deeper explorations into how visual identity and social categorization continue to influence access-based consumption.

PhD researcher Çağla Dayanğan Sparks Engaging Discussions at the University’s Research Poster Showcase

The Research Poster Showcase serves as an excellent platform for students and researchers to share their groundbreaking work with the broader academic community. Çağla’s poster sparked curious debate regarding the nature self-uncertainty and its contextuality, demonstrating the impact and relevance of her research within the wider academic landscape. It was a clear testament to the high level of academic rigor and creativity that our PhD students bring to the University.

In addition to celebrating Çağla’s impressive contribution to the event, we would also like to highlight the Southampton Business School PhD program in marketing. This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to pursue cutting-edge research and make a meaningful impact in marketing. Whether you are looking to advance your academic career or contribute to pioneering work in your chosen area, our PhD program offers a supportive and dynamic environment for research excellence.

If you are interested in learning more about the available scholarship or would like further details on how to apply, please visit the following link: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/business-studies#about. This is your chance to be part of a vibrant academic community and take your research to the next level at a top marketing department.

GenAI and the Leadership Challenge

The workshop was led by Dr Jelena Petrovic, an expert in strategic leadership, and Professor Jeni Giambona, a systems thinking expert, from Southampton Business School. The workshop focused on the issues of organisational culture, politics, and silos in the context of AI and digital transformation, and how systems thinking can address thinking in silos to maximise the benefits of GenAI.

This workshop was the first in a series of knowledge exchange events which are part of Dr Petrovic’s HEIF-funded project, delivered by her and other Southampton Business School experts to industry audience.

The next workshop will take place on 30 April 2025 and will delve into how to get senior leadership buy-in for digital transformation. Jelena will be joined by Richard Cartwright on the day.

More information about this and the other workshops in the series can be found at the following link.

Sustainable Finance for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

Sustainable finance is becoming an essential part of responsible business leadership. As expectations grow around transparency and long-term impact, SMEs that embrace sustainable practices can strengthen their operations, reputation, and resilience. This workshop is ideal for SMEs owners and founders, finance managers, bookkeepers, sustainability advocates, and business consultants looking to make a meaningful shift.

Throughout the day, you’ll gain a clear understanding of the fundamentals of sustainable finance and explore how to embed environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles into everyday financial decision-making. The workshop also introduces practical tools and internationally recognised frameworks to help you align financial practices with broader sustainability objectives.

Professor Anita Krishnan show Insightful Discussion at Europe India Centre for Business & Industry (EICBI) Conference

Professor Anita Krishnan is a qualified accountant with the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (ACMA, CGMA) and has almost two decades of professional experience in external audit, internal audit, accounting and compliance, predominantly in large listed stockbroking companies.

Anita embarked on her academic career in the University of Surrey thirteen years ago and has extensive experience in teaching professional as well as university studies in the UK and Asia. Her teaching interests are largely related to Financial Accounting, Financial Reporting and Management Accounting at Undergraduate (UG), Postgraduate (PG) and MBA levels with research interest in Governance, Gender and Corporate Performance.

She is also Vice Chair of the Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) Examination Board and is an External Examiner for the Professional level Management Accounting paper for the Association of International Accountants (AIA). She is an External Examiner in other Higher Education Institutions in the UK. Anita is also a Non-Executive Trustee of the British Accounting and Finance Association (BAFA).

Professor Anita Krishnan is the Chair of the University External Examiner Scrutiny Group (EESG) and sits on various policy-making committees in the university like the Academic Quality and Standards Committee (AQSC), the Consumer Protection Committee (Competition and Market Authorities related), the Collaborative Provision Committee (related to all international collaborations) and was a member of Senate. She also sits on the University of Southampton Malaysia (UoSM) Liaison Committee.

Professor Anita Krishnan from the University of Southampton Business School emphasised research on diversity, equity, and inclusion, along with the importance of IQ and EQ in preparing critical thinkers for evolving environments.

Dr. Chipo Simbi Advocates for Ubuntu Philosophy in Education: Enhancing Classroom Engagement Through Cultural Heritage

Dr Chipo Simbi has administered national and international projects. She was the Rhodes University Mentorship Coordinator. Chipo also administers a national program called the National Emerging Scholars Program (NESP) in South Africa and an Erasmus-funded project called the Professionalisation of University Academic Teaching for Rhodes University (PUAT).

In this piece, Chipo offers practical ways to apply Ubuntu—an African value system rooted in humanity and interconnectedness—to foster deeper student engagement.

It’s a powerful reminder that in our pursuit of efficiency and academic rigour, we must never lose sight of what truly matters: relationships, belonging, and empowerment in the classroom.

Education is not just about outcomes. It’s about creating spaces where students feel seen, supported, and inspired to thrive.

Dr Roy Edwards made a presentation on 'The History of Accounting in Education'

Using UK Government National Archives, official publications, and digitised media, he demonstrated historical insights on valuation, taxation (including tax heavens), and industrial policies.

The presentation showed how integrating historical resources into accounting education provides a comprehensive learning experience, helping students understand accounting’s role in business and government.

Dr. Roy Edwards began his career working for the Ministry of Defence Procurement Executive and the Lord Chancellor’s Department before pursuing a BSc Econ and PhD at the London School of Economics in 1988.

He joined the University of Southampton in 1999, where he has contributed extensively to the fields of business and management history. Dr. Edwards co-founded the Management and Business History track at the British Academy of Management, which later evolved into a formal Special Interest Group.

He served on the Executive of the Business Archives Council for 12 years, promoting the use of business archives and coordinating the prestigious Wadsworth Prize. As a co-founder of the Archive and Artefact Study Network (A2SN), he has played a key role in organizing events to connect researchers, heritage professionals, and educators in the use of archival material.

Bringing the Boardroom to the Classroom: How External Roles Enhance My Teaching at Southampton Business School

At Southampton Business School, we are committed to offering students not only academic excellence but also real-world insight.

My external appointments — across the National Audit Office, Motability Foundation, Places for People, AAT, and other major organisations — enable me to bring a dynamic, practice-based perspective into the lecture theatre.

Serving on a range of boards and audit committees keeps me deeply connected to the latest developments in corporate governance, risk management, sustainability, and financial strategy. This first-hand experience enables me to enrich my teaching with live examples of how organisations navigate challenges such as regulatory change, ESG commitments, digital transformation, and inclusive leadership.

Students value the practical lens I offer and these external roles allow me to show students not just what the textbooks say, but how decisions are made under real-world constraints and uncertainty.

Ultimately, my goal is to help our students become not just technically excellent, but strategic, ethical, and impact-driven professionals. Maintaining an active external portfolio ensures that the education I provide remains grounded, current, and inspiring — preparing the next generation of leaders for the real challenges and opportunities ahead.

Dr. Doorgakunt’s research presented at the 4th GRFCG International Conference

Dr Lakshi Doorgakunt has worked almost 10 years as an auditor in audit firms such as KPMG, Grant Thornton and Barclays Bank.

As an academic, she has held junior roles (such as Tutor and Lecturer) at Griffith University and the University of Southern Queensland, Australia, to mid-career roles (Senior Lecturer) at Kaplan Business School, Australia. Currently, Dr Doorgakunt occupies the role of Senior Teaching Fellow in Accounting at the University of Southampton.

As a GRI Certified Sustainability Reporting Professional, she is also involved in delivering training for the Sustainability Reporting Project for Small and Medium Enterprises led by Prof Ven Tauringana and Dr Renata Konadu.

Dr Doorgakunt has attended and presented papers at prestigious conferences.

How do you get senior leadership buy-in for digital transformation?

The workshop was led by Dr Jelena Petrovic and Richard Cartwright from the Business School. The key discussion topics included boards, governance, strategic leadership skills, power and influence in the context of AI and digital transformation.

This workshop was the second in a series of knowledge exchange events which are part of Dr Petrovic’s HEIF-funded project, delivered by her and other Southampton Business School experts to industry audience.

The next workshop will take place on 23 June 2025, where Jelena will discuss with the participants whether AI is our enemy at work, and what it means to be an AI savvy leader. More information about this and the other workshops in the series can be found at the following link.

Understanding Professional Bodies Supervision and the Path to Audit Qualification

With a wealth of experience in accounting education and professional standard, Rhiannon brings her expertise from her role at FRC, where she has been part of the Professional Bodies Supervision team since 2022. She has ten years of teaching experience in audit, ethics, governance, and accounting, and has worked as an examiner for ICAEW and CIPFA. Her career span technical role at CIPFA, and she began her journey in the Audit Commission, specialising in local government and NHS audits.

Her presentation highlighted:

The role of Recognised Qualifying Bodies (RQB).
The impact of Companies Act requirements on accounting qualification (ICAEW, ACCA, ICAI, ICAS, CIPFA and AIA).
How these qualification leads to Audit Qualification.

Her presentation has deepened our understanding of audit qualification pathways and professional oversight frameworks, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who attended.

Accounting students have International Accounting Standards Board (IASB)Trip

It was a real privilege for our Southampton Business School student community to be part of such an insightful discussion on the role of the IASB, the future of IFRS and ISSB developments. As educators, we always strive to bring learning beyond the classroom, and what better way than to step into the heart of the regulatory body itself?
We were beyond impressed by our students, especially considering most were first and second-year undergraduates! Their confidence in asking thoughtful questions and even sitting at the boardroom table to engage directly with the speakers was incredible to witness.

A huge well done to all of you—you made us very proud!

We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to Professor Laura Costanzo Associate Professor Pingli Li and Jacqueline Campbell for initiating this.

Sustainable Finance Workshop

Bringing together a mix of experts, industry professionals, practitioners, and academics, the workshop provided a platform to discuss the evolving role of finance in promoting sustainability within the SME sector. Through a series of thought-provoking presentations, engaging interactive sessions and valuable networking opportunities, participants gained new perspectives on integrating sustainable practices into financial decision-making.

A huge thank you to our incredible speakers, whose expertise, experience, and insights made the day truly impactful. Their contributions underscored the growing importance of sustainable finance, a topic that is more relevant than ever as businesses and financial institutions adapt to global sustainability challenges and evolving regulatory landscapes.

In today’s rapidly changing world, developing skills in sustainable finance is no longer optional - it is essential! Financial professionals, business leaders and policymakers must equip themselves with the knowledge and tools to support the transition to a more sustainable economy. Events like this workshop play a crucial role in fostering these capabilities and shaping a future where finance serves as a catalyst for sustainable development.

Building on the momentum of this successful workshop, we are excited to announce the launch of our Executive Education Course on Sustainable Finance, scheduled for 18 September. Designed for professionals seeking to deepen their understanding and expertise in this critical area, the course will provide actionable insights and practical skills to drive sustainable financial practices within their organisations.

Stay tuned for more details and registration information. We look forward to welcoming the next cohort of leaders committed to advancing sustainable finance.

Launch Event : The role of AI in democratising academic research

Discover how AcademiaPod, an AI-driven podcast platform, transforms cutting-edge research from the University of Southampton Business School into accessible, engaging content for wider audiences. Get a first glimpse here: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/business-school/enterprise/academia-pod.page.

Join leading academics and industry practitioners sharing their insights on the benefits of knowledge exchange and co-creation, and how AI is facilitating and enhancing this process. Connect with professionals, academics, and innovators to share ideas and collaborate.

The event will take place on 8 July, 10.30am - 3.30pm at the University of Southampton Business School, Boldrewood Innovation Campus and it is free to attend. Hot lunch will be provided.

Join us in democratising knowledge and driving innovation forward together! Register here .

LEiR Seminar with Amanda Beable

Amanda’s session underscored a powerful message: effective leadership is not about having all the answers. Instead, it is about creating the conditions for others to grow, experiment, and even fail on the path to success. She encouraged leaders to embrace their limitations not as weaknesses, but as opportunities to foster collaboration and shared growth. By recognising that leadership is just one part of a broader organisational ecosystem, leaders can better support their teams in achieving strategic goals while helping individuals find their strengths and thrive in roles where they can truly add value.

Amanda also reminded us that leadership is a privilege, not an entitlement. When seen as a right, it risks becoming disconnected from the very people it aims to serve. She spoke candidly about the often unseen and thankless aspects of leadership and encouraged us all to show more appreciation for those who lead with integrity and care.

Importantly, Amanda highlighted that strong leaders empower rather than control. They trust their teams, invest in their development, and create both formal and informal opportunities for growth. Her emphasis on respectful communication reinforced the importance of dignity and empathy in leadership practice.

At USBS, Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise are central to our the core of what we do, as we actively bring together academic insight and real-world experience to create meaningful impact. Leaders like Amanda play a key role in making that happen, and we look forward to all the exciting opportunities ahead as we continue to bridge theory and practice in the pursuit of purposeful leadership.

Learn more about our Leaders and Entrepreneurs in Residence Programme here

USBS/Abri Sustainability Summit

With insightful contributions from USBS speakers and Abri key stakeholders, the summit explored how SMEs can engage with public procurement and collaborate with universities through knowledge exchange and enterprise activities to implement innovative practices.

Participants gained insights into how they could collaborate with USBS, particularly through collaborative research, innovation partnerships and access to academic expertise and resources. More specifically, attendees learned more about the following USBS offerings:

Help to Grow Programme for SMEs : Richard Cartwright, Principal Enterprise Fellow and Director of Help to Grow: Management (HTG:M) programme shared his insights on the path to net zero, highlighting various strategies suppliers can use to integrate climate adaptation, either to achieve net zero or to enhance efficiency. Richard also gave an overview of the government-funded HTG:M programme, which is designed to help SME leaders unlock growth opportunities through strategic thinking. Learn more about HTG:M and register here.
Sustainability Reporting: Professor Ven Tauringana showcased how USBS can support companies of all sizes and charities in preparing their Sustainability Reports aligned with GRI Standards. In addition, Dr Renata Konadu, senior Lecturer, delivered a presentation on leveraging Sustainability Reporting as a strategic tool to provide suppliers with a competitive edge. By adopting a rigid approach to Sustainability Reporting, suppliers ensure regulatory compliance with ESG standards, promote transparency, and meet expectations for ethical sourcing. We are proud to be among the very few universities worldwide that have achieved certified GRI Training Partners; if you would like to learn more about the Executive Education courses we offer at USBS, please visit our website.
Sustainable Supply Chain: Professor Jeni Giambona, Associate Dean of Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise, and Associate Professor Nicholas Dacre, led an interactive session on how to apply Industry 5.0 thinking to construction supply chain management. Participants explored emerging trends in human-centric, sustainable, and resilient supply chain practices and discussed how they can apply these concepts on their day-to-day.

Our partnership with Abri is a powerful example of how collaboration between industry and academia can drive meaningful progress. Through open knowledge exchange and shared learning, we have not only celebrated the steps already taken on their sustainability journey but also explored exciting opportunities for future impact as a result of potential synergies with USBS. We look forward to continuing this journey together, while building on our shared insights and exploring new ways to innovate for a more sustainable future.

AcademiaPod Launch Event: AI Meets Knowledge Exchange

Held at the University of Southampton Business School (USBS) and supported by the Higher Education Innovation Fund (HEIF), the event brought together academics, industry practitioners, and policy influencers to explore the role of AI in democratising academic research.

The day opened with a welcome from Dr Foteini Papadopoulou, Senior Enterprise Fellow, who introduced AcademiaPod and its mission to make academic insights more accessible, inclusive, and impactful. This was followed by Professor Jeni Giambona, Associate Dean of Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise, who provided an overview of USBS' growing work in public engagement and cross-sector collaboration.

In a thought-provoking keynote, Dr Luigi Mosca (Imperial Business School and the University of Sydney) discussed “Designing Better Futures”, offering compelling insights into how AI can help translate academic knowledge into practical applications.

After a networking lunch, attendees heard from Vasilij Nevlev, AI expert and Director of Analytium Ltd, who shared industry perspectives in “The Generative Catalyst”, a powerful reflection on how GenAI is transforming knowledge transfer and business innovation.

The event closed with interactive group discussions on the opportunities and challenges at the intersection of AI, research communication, and academia-industry collaboration, sparking lively debate and generating new ideas for future partnerships. During a highly interactive session led by Dr Luigi Mosca, groups of participants explored ways in which AI can close the gap between industry and academia, all while co-creating a sustainable future. After such a dynamic exchange of ideas, one can’t help but wonder: if we harness AI’s full potential together, what breakthroughs might we unlock next?

AcademiaPod is now live; the platform features podcast episodes generated from peer-reviewed research papers by the University of Southampton Business School academics.

Explore the platform here.

We would like to thank all our speakers, participants, and partners for making this launch such a success. We look forward to continuing to build bridges between academia and society through AI-powered knowledge exchange.

Clienting in Major Projects

This workshop offered a valuable platform for our academics to engage with professionals and stakeholders from the field, who shared their perspectives on the proposed systems-based clienting framework currently under development by the project team. Receiving grounded and practical feedback on the framework’s relevance and applicability was an important step in moving forward the project, which is an exemplar of a truly co-creation effort. The exchange of ideas between academics and practitioners lays the groundwork for collaborative knowledge creation that can have relevant impact in real-word situations. Drawing on the lived experience of those in practice and transforming it into actionable models through rigorous academic analysis is the epitome of knowledge exchange, where academia is in a constant dialogue with industry. The ultimate purpose of this collaborative process is to advance real-world impact, innovation, and to develop evidence-based practices.

Clienting in major projects is undeniably critical and often determines project success. Shifting away from the notion of the 'intelligent client' towards a systems-based approach will be instrumental in enhancing the effectiveness and outcomes of future large-scale initiatives. By embracing the concept of the 'incomplete client', we aim to shape the future of infrastructure and tackle the complex, interrelated challenges that major projects frequently encounter. While we do not present this approach as a panacea, we are confident that it marks a significant step in the right direction.

USBS Knowledge Exchange & Enterprise Newsletter

Dive into the second issue of our Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise newsletter, where ideas meet impact. From ground-breaking collaborations to real-world applications of academic insight, this edition is packed with inspiration, insight, and opportunity.
Highlights include:

Registration now open for our new Help to Grow Management cohort — are you ready to take the next step?
Could your organisation be the perfect match for a game-changing KTP project? Learn more on how your business could benefit from academic collaboration.
Insights into how online returns are harming the environment, based on the latest research conducted by Professor PK Senyo, USBS Associate Dean of Research.
How can our award-winning employability services help our students grow their future career?
Enjoy the latest episodes of AcademiaPod; a unique project that transforms complex studies into engaging audio stories, bridging the gap between academia and the business world.

Read and the USBS KEE Newsletter and be part of the conversation that is shaping tomorrow.

Driving Industry Impact: USBS Academics Share Insights at Two Leading Conferences

In October, they were invited to speak at the Major Projects Association Conference, where they explored the key blockers that must be understood and removed for successful major project delivery. The report goes further by introducing the comprehensive Major Projects Clienting Framework (MPCF), designed to drive an immediate cultural shift within clienting organisations. This framework helps move from a transactional approach to clienting towards a more strategic orchestration, by bringing people, systems, and capabilities together to achieve desired outcomes.
In November, Professor Jeni Giambona and Associate Professor Nicholas Dacre also represented the University of Southampton Business School at this year’s National Grid Commercial Forum, held at the iconic National Memorial Arboretum. They shared insights from our latest report, Clienting in Major Projects: Beyond Outputs, Towards Outcomes—a research-driven framework designed to transform how major projects deliver value.

This prestigious invitation highlights the growing influence of USBS research in shaping industry practice and demonstrates how we are bridging the gap between academia and industry through exemplary knowledge exchange. The Forum brought together leading professionals from across the major projects sector, creating a unique platform to explore how systems thinking and collaboration can improve clienting. As our academics emphasised, effective clienting is about convening capability, not commanding it.

The report is the result of months of rigorous research, combining academic expertise with practitioner insights. It offers practical tools and guidelines that professionals can apply immediately to achieve better outcomes in complex projects.

Professor Jeni Giambona remarked Sometimes we do not apply lessons learned because we experience "uniqueness bias", but also because we don't manage to gather and tease out the huge amount of knowledge that there is in these temporary organisations.

Dr Nicholas Dacre also commented Effective clienting requires a systems approach and a framework that moves clients from a culture of Mission Control to Mission Orchestration.

Read the full report here: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/~assets/doc/fss-international/USBS_Clienting_in_Major_Projects_Framework

Banking and Finance MSc programmes’ Academic Partnership with GARP

This partnership will ensure that our programmes are aligned with the FRM curriculum, where our rigorous academic instruction can be coupled with practitioner-driven insight and certification. This helps us to provide opportunities for our students to enhance their employability, connect with industry professionals, and gain practical risk skills that can be immediately applied in the workplace.

KEE Newsletter - Issue 3

We are excited to share the latest edition of our Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise Newsletter, packed with insights, success stories, and opportunities for collaboration with the University of Southampton Business School.

In this issue, you will find:

Updates on innovative projects and partnerships
Highlights from recent events and upcoming activities
Resources to support knowledge exchange and enterprise initiatives

Read Issue 3, view the newsletter here.

Don’t miss our next event on 29 January with Oliver Fisher, Chief Investment Officer, HMRC.
Join us to explore how organisations can evolve while maintaining resilience. We will dive into strategies for reshaping culture and behaviours, aligning incentives to drive change, and streamlining governance. Discover practical insights on how to rewire organisational DNA for innovation without sacrificing stability or productivity.

Stay connected and discover how we are driving impact through collaboration!

Celebrating Entrepreneurial Excellence at the New Forest Brilliance Awards 2026

As part of this commitment, we were thrilled to sponsor the Entrepreneur of the Year Award at the New Forest Brilliance Awards, an event that celebrates the incredible talent and vision shaping our region’s future.

Congratulations to Emily Beck, founder of The Build Purser, winner of the University of Southampton Business School Award for Entrepreneur of the Year! This award recognises a dynamic and visionary leader who has propelled their business forward through innovation, resilience, and a commitment to excellence, all while inspiring others along the way.

We are proud to work alongside New Forest Business Partnership, whose dedication to championing local enterprise makes a real difference in our community.

A huge congratulations to Emily for her outstanding entrepreneurial spirit and remarkable achievements!

Lunchtime seminar with Oliver Fisher

The seminar brought together thought leaders, academics and professionals to explore how organisations can transform deeply embedded structures while maintaining resilience in today’s fast-changing environment.

Key discussions focused on:

Organisations as systems and system-of-systems
Moving from strategic vision to practical delivery
Reshaping culture, behaviours, and mindsets to enable sustainable change
Aligning incentives to drive transformation
Streamlining governance layers while navigating the disruptive influence of AI technologies

Oliver shared insights gained throughout his career in senior leadership roles, and which covered strategy, investment planning, and digital transformation. he also spoke about his passion for enabling a more agile government, ensuring that public sector work is responsive, innovative, and delivers meaningful improvements for citizens and society.

Successful transformation strategies require the dismantling of siloed governance, noted Oliver, highlighting the persistent issue of organisational fragmentation that undermines so many institutions. Drawing on several theories of change management and organisational design, Oliver emphasised that a unifying thread runs through all effective approaches: alignment between people, leadership, purpose, and systems.

Oliver then guided participants through compelling case studies, demonstrating how a systems-based approach can deliver meaningful outcomes. His narrative illustrated not only the importance of systemic thinking but also its practical application in real organisational contexts.

He concluded with a thought-provoking message that resonated deeply with the audience: “Rewiring starts with asking the right questions.” How many of us are truly asking the right questions? That reflection was deliberately left with us.

Participants walked away with actionable insights on how to rewire organisational DNA for agility and innovation without compromising stability. The event sparked rich conversations on how organisations can future proof themselves and thrive amid continuous disruption.

Stay tuned for more events that challenge conventional thinking and inspire meaningful change.

If you would like to explore how to connect with us, contact Professor Jeni Giambona, j.giambona@soton.ac.uk

Evening seminar with Tim Chapman

Around the world, governments are under increasing pressure to fund and deliver the infrastructure needed to support growth, connectivity, resilience, and long‑term prosperity. Against this backdrop, Tim’s presentation offered a timely and insightful comparative analysis of how different countries approach infrastructure investment and delivery. The seminar highlighted the persistent challenges facing the delivery of major projects in the UK, where outcomes too often fall short and costs and timelines far exceed international benchmarks. As Tim underscored, infrastructure remains one of the most powerful drivers of social wellbeing and economic performance.

Drawing on international examples, Tim demonstrated that countries adopt different investment models, each shaped by political priorities, institutional design, and market structures. His analysis showed that:

Energy and digital infrastructure generate some of the largest economic returns.
There is clear evidence of a strong correlation between higher‑quality infrastructure and increased GDP
Countries that invest systematically and strategically tend to enjoy greater productivity, more dynamic labour markets, and improved social outcomes.

Tim emphasised that the UK faces an urgent need to invest in better infrastructure, that needs to be delivered more affordably and with a stronger focus on wider societal benefits. In today’s VUCA world (volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous), the ability to identify infrastructure needs and deliver effectively is more critical than ever. This requires a transformation in how infrastructure programmes are planned and executed.

He concluded by presenting a systems‑based framework for enabling productivity, highlighting how clients, designers, and contractors must work in alignment to improve delivery outcomes. Effective clienting practices, he argued, are a vital part of this shift, shaping both the quality of delivery and the long‑term value infrastructure brings to society.

His remarks strongly connected to the recently published report by Professor Jeni Giambona and Dr Nicholas Dacre, USBS academics: “Clienting in Major Projects: Beyond Outputs, Towards Outcomes.” If you have not yet read it, we invite you to explore the report and share your thoughts with us.

Stay tuned for more insightful events organised by USBS. If you want to explore how to engage with us, contact Professor Jeni Giambona, Associate Dean (KEE), j.giambona@soton.ac.uk

USBS successful in its re-accreditation of the Small Business Charter

The Small Business Charter supports a network of accredited business schools who excel in small business support, student entrepreneurship, and local engagement.

Professor Laura Costanzo, Dean of the University of Southampton Business School (USBS), commented: "We are delighted to have received the Small Business Charter (SBC) reaccreditation for the next five years and see the significant progress that USBS has made since the last accreditation, embedding SBC principles across our strategy and operations. We view the SBC as a cornerstone of our School’s enterprise mission and will continue using its framework to support SMEs, advance the civic agenda, student enterprise and employability.

“We are proud to belong to a community of business schools dedicated to real-world change and look forward to continuing this journey with the support of the charter."

Professor Jeni Giambona, Associate Dean of Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise at the University of Southampton Business School, added: "Small Business Charter accreditation enables us to promote our small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) more effectively to relevant stakeholders, and to engage our student population by embedding enterprise opportunities into the curriculum, internships and extra-curricular activities.

“The SBC mark serves not just as recognition of current strengths but also as a springboard for expanding our role in fostering innovation, leadership and sustainable growth within the SME sector in the region.”

The assessors’ feedback mentioned that: “The University of Southampton Business School (USBS) demonstrated a strong strategic commitment to SME engagement and enterprise. Overall, USBS has made significant progress since the last accreditation, embedding SBC principles across its strategy and operations – demonstrated through the assessment process. The school demonstrates strong leadership, infrastructure, and partnerships that deliver meaningful impact for SMEs and students”

USBS Future Leaders Dinner 2026

The event brought together USBS staff, University of Southampton alumni, students, and distinguished industry partners and collaborators. This annual gathering provides an invaluable opportunity for our students to broaden their professional networks and gain deeper insight into the skills and attributes employers are seeking in today’s competitive job market, ultimately enhancing their employability and career readiness.

The event opened with remarks from the USBS Dean, Professor Laura Costanzo, who emphasised the importance of creating spaces where students can engage directly with industry and highlighted how effectively the Business School equips them for their future careers. The MBA Director, Professor Behzad Hezarkhani, followed with further reflections on how events like this inspire and motivate all our students, including those on our flagship MBA programme.

The USBS Associate Dean of Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise, Professor Jeni Giambona also spoke, recognising the outstanding work of our Careers, Employability, Placements and Alumni Relations Team (CEPAR), who consistently create enriching opportunities for students to connect with leading organisations and influential professionals. Professor Giambona concluded the opening remarks by underlining that the Business School’s extensive knowledge‑exchange activities demonstrate our strong commitment to the University’s Triple Helix Approach, where education, research, knowledge exchange, and entrepreneurship are tightly interwoven to create maximum impact.

The evening culminated in an inspiring keynote address from alumna Sara Davison, who shared valuable, practical advice for students preparing to enter the workforce.

We extend our sincere gratitude to all our industry partners, collaborators and mentors who generously dedicated their time and expertise to join us for the evening. Their continued support and engagement play a vital role in enriching the student experience and strengthening the bridge between education and industry.

Gatherings of this kind significantly strengthen our employability agenda, giving students the chance to engage with industry experts, ask questions, and develop the confidence and professional awareness that employers look for. We look forward to the future with optimism, confident in the opportunities it holds for our students and strategic partners. Together, we will continue to foster a vibrant community where innovation and collaboration thrive.

USBS Dean, Professor Laura Costanzo

USBS Associate Dean of Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise, Professor Jeni Giambona

USBS shortlisted for Outstanding Stakeholder Engagement in the Small Business Charter (SBC) Excellence Awards 2026

The SBC Excellence Awards celebrate the most innovative and impactful initiatives delivered by accredited business schools across the UK to support small businesses, students, and regional economies. The shortlisted entries highlight activity that demonstrates measurable impact, strong partnerships, and sustained engagement with stakeholders.

The nomination recognises the USBS' KEE team’s work connecting academic expertise with small businesses, industry partners and civic organisations across the South Coast. Over the past two academic years, the team has engaged over 180 SMEs through collaborative initiatives designed to support innovation, productivity and regional economic growth.

Many are the initiatives highlighted, including the SME Stories project which is an online case study platform celebrating SME impact and is run in collaboration with Hampshire Chamber of Commerce and the New Forest Business Partnership; as well as AcademiaPod, our AI-powered podcast translating academic research into accessible insights for SME leaders, and the prestigious Leaders and Entrepreneurs in Residence (LEiRs) programme, which brings industry experts, students and academics together to exchange knowledge and shape future business practice.

Additionally, through executive education programmes and Help to Grow: Management, the Business School has supported more than 200 SME leaders, with programme evaluation showing that 92% of participants reported increased confidence in strategic decision-making and 85% implemented changes to their business practices.

Leading through change: Practical systems thinking for business challenges

On the first day, Professor Jeni Giambona (Associate Dean of Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise, University of Southampton Business School) introduced the core principles of systems thinking, with a focus on adopting a whole-systems perspective. Delegates explored key concepts such as defining systems and system boundaries, feedback loops and interdependencies as well as systems mapping identifying patterns, and appreciating how organisations are complex systems.

The day also provided an introduction to systems leadership, with interactive exercises designed to connect theory with real organisational challenges. Delegates brought a wealth of experience from a wide range of sectors, enriching discussions and contributing actively to the learning process.

On Day 2, our Leaders and Entrepreneurs in Residence, Nassar Majothi (Director of Systems Integration, HS2) and Tim Whitcher (Technical Director, AtkinsRealis) brought systems thinking to life through practical, real-world examples drawn from their leadership and entrepreneurial journeys. Nassar and Tim shared a number of techniques and frameworks they apply in their day-to-day leadership roles.

Through facilitated group activities and discussions, participants had the opportunity to explore systems leadership in action and apply practical tools to complex scenarios, deepening their understanding of how systems thinking can support better decision-making and organisational resilience.
The course marked the beginning of participants’ journey to leading in a complex world where systems thinking is a core leadership skill. It laid a strong foundation for navigating complexity, equipping leaders with the mindset and tools needed to apply systems thinking in an increasingly interconnected and dynamic environment.

If you or your team are interested in learning how to see the bigger system, anticipate unintended consequences, and make more informed organisational decisions, this course is for you.
📅 Next cohort: 17–18 November 2026
🎟️ Early bird discount available here.

Professor Jeni Giambona (Associate Dean of Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise)

Nassar Majothi (Director of Systems Integration, HS2)

USBS Leaders and Entrepreneurs in Residence

Oliver brings a wealth of experience from senior leadership roles spanning strategy, investment planning, and digital transformation. Throughout his career, he has played a pivotal role in ensuring that multibillion-pound investments deliver tangible societal impact while driving meaningful innovation for HMRC.

A strong advocate of agile government, Oliver is deeply committed to ensuring that departmental work addresses real-world issues and responds effectively to the evolving challenges facing society today. Drawing on his extensive experience in the public sector, he is dedicated to supporting and inspiring the next generation of public sector leaders.

We are delighted to welcome Oliver and look forward to working closely with him on truly collaborative initiatives, where knowledge exchange between academia and practice moves beyond rhetoric and translates into impactful outcomes.

Responsible AI in Action: Practical Workshop for Business Leaders

Held at the Boldrewood Innovation Campus, the event provided a collaborative space for participants to engage with the challenges and opportunities associated with adopting artificial intelligence in a responsible, strategic way.

As AI continues to transform how organisations operate, ensuring its use is transparent, aligned with business objectives as well as human centric, has become a key priority. The workshop focused on translating Responsible AI from high-level principles into practical, actionable insights.

Sessions explored:

AI governance and oversight frameworks, including the BITC Responsible AI Framework
Strategies to balance innovation with risk and compliance
The impact of AI on strategy, leadership, project delivery and financial decision-making

Participants engaged in interactive discussions and real-world case studies, enabling them to reflect on how these insights apply to their own organisational contexts. The workshop featured contributions from both industry practitioners and academic experts, offering diverse perspectives on Responsible AI adoption.

“Responsible AI use requires more than just technical know-how. Bridging the gap between academia and industry is vital to ensure innovation is driven by societal values and human-centric approaches rather than unchecked technical prowess. Days like these create the space for such necessary conversations.”
-[Prof Jeni Giambona, Associate Dean of Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise, University of Southampton Business School]

Daniel Evans, Associate Director (Verizon Business)

Professor Jeni Giambona, Associate Dean of Knowledge Exchange and Enterprise (USBS)

Lunchtime seminar with Sam Stacey

Sam opened by highlighting highlighted how, unlike many industries that have transformed significantly over recent decades, the construction sector has remained relatively stagnant. What are the consequences of this lack of progress? Rising costs, environmental pressures, and, most critically, declining public trust.

Drawing from his book, Brunel's Bees, Sam set out a compelling vision for a new era, one in which stronger, more integrated systems underpin the delivery of infrastructure. A key theme throughout the session was interdependence. Successful infrastructure delivery does not rely on isolated excellence, but on the integration of ideas, people, and capabilities. He further argued that only through coordinated, system‑wide thinking can we achieve meaningful and lasting impact.

Moving from fragmented practices to a fully connected ecosystem, however, requires stronger integration across systems, capabilities, and decision‑making. At the heart of this transformation is the need to align decision-making with long‑term human outcomes, ensuring that the built environment does more than delivering assets, and rather enables people and communities to flourish.

Challenging conventional thinking further, he invited the audience to rethink the role of beauty in the built environment. Rather than being seen as a superficial or decorative feature, beauty should be understood as the outcome of deliberate, well‑coordinated decisions, which are a reflection of systems working in harmony. A more thoughtful approach to design and integration, could help rebuild both public confidence and pride in our infrastructure.

The seminar also explored the transformative potential of artificial intelligence for the sector. Far from being just a tool for efficiency, AI represents a fundamental shift in how decisions are made, opening up new possibilities for innovation and problem‑solving in project delivery and leadership. Yet, as access to data and tools continues to expand, a critical question emerges: what is the human role? Sam emphasised that, rather than diminishing, the latter becomes even more vital, guiding judgment and purpose in an increasingly data‑driven world.

Finally, Sam highlighted a significant opportunity for the UK. With the right approach, the country could position itself as an exporter of knowledge, systems, and intelligence for the built environment globally.

The session left attendees with a clear message: meaningful change will require bold thinking, and system‑wide integration, and a renewed focus on long‑term value.

Adopt an Idea - Workshop

Co-organised by Dr Giota Papadimitri and Prof. Swarnodeep Homroy, and supported by the Higher Education Innovation Fund (HEIF), the event brought together academics and practitioners to exchange ideas and explore how research and practice can incubate ideas that makes a social impact. The workshop featured paper presentations from researchers across the UK, alongside a Perspectives from Practice session with guest speakers from the Bank of England, The Upright Project, ABP, and IACM. The day fostered lively and productive conversations, and we hope it marks the beginning of a continuous dialogue between researchers and the wider practitioner community.

Building on the momentum of the inaugural workshop, USBS aims to further strengthen these connections by creating ongoing opportunities for collaboration and mutual learning.

USBS Leaders and Entrepreneurs in Residence: Introducing Mark Coates

Mark Coates is a leading figure in infrastructure policy and digital transformation, currently serving as Vice President of Infrastructure Policy Advancement at Bentley. With over 30 years’ experience across major organisations such as Thames Water, Highways England and Crossrail, he has led large-scale projects and, more recently, driven the adoption of digital solutions to improve infrastructure delivery. A Fellow of key professional institutions, Mark plays an active role across industry boards and advisory groups, helping shape innovation, policy, and best practice in the sector.

We are pleased to welcome Mark and are excited to collaborate closely with him on genuinely partnership-driven initiatives, where the exchange of knowledge between academia and practice goes beyond rhetoric and delivers meaningful impact.

University of Southampton Hosts International Workshop on Accounting and Finance in Emerging Economies

Organised by the Accounting and Finance in Emerging Economies Special Interest Group (AFEE SIG) of the British Accounting and Finance Association (BAFA), the biennial workshop brought together researchers exploring some of the most pressing accounting and finance challenges facing emerging economies today.

This year's theme, "Global South Meets Global North", provided a platform for discussion and collaboration on issues spanning corporate governance, sustainability reporting, climate risk management, green finance, financial reporting standards, public sector reform, diversity and inclusion, and the role of accounting and finance in socio-economic development.

The event featured presentations from established scholars, doctoral candidates and early career researchers, fostering rich debate on how accounting and finance research can contribute to addressing global challenges while recognising the unique economic, social and institutional contexts of emerging economies.

As part of the programme, the AFEE SIG also held its Annual General Meeting, bringing members together to reflect on the group's achievements and elect its new executive committee.

The workshop also recognised outstanding contributions from the next generation of researchers through its Best Paper Awards, presented to doctoral and early career academics whose work demonstrated significant potential for impact within emerging economy contexts.

In addition to the formal programme, attendees had the opportunity to network during a pre-workshop dinner and throughout the day, strengthening existing collaborations and creating new partnerships across institutions and disciplines.

The event reinforced the University of Southampton Business School's commitment to supporting internationally relevant research and providing a platform for scholarly exchange on issues that shape economies and societies around the world.

The Lighthouse Project launched Inclusive Leadership Playbook for local SMEs and third-sector organisations

The event brought together business leaders, community partners, academics and colleagues from across the University to discuss the findings from the project and introduce the newly developed Inclusive Leadership Playbook. The Playbook was created to support organisations in embedding inclusive leadership into everyday decision-making, stakeholder engagement and organisational practice.

Professor Jeni Giambona opened the event and Dr Foteini Papadopoulou, Senior Enterprise Fellow at University of Southampton Business School, presented the key research findings from the project, drawing on survey responses and interviews with senior leaders from Hampshire-based SMEs and third-sector organisations. The findings highlighted that inclusive leadership was strongly associated with voice, psychological safety, transparent decision-making and meaningful stakeholder engagement. They also showed that, while leaders value inclusive leadership, they also need practical, low-burden tools to help make it feasible within busy and resource-constrained organisational environments.

A central theme of the event was the importance of industry engagement in shaping the final Playbook. Insights from local leaders will directly inform the development of practical tools, including prompts for inclusive decision-making, stakeholder voice mapping, meeting reflection and “closing the loop” after consultation. This will ensure that the Playbook is grounded not only in academic research, but also in the lived realities of local organisations.

The event also featured an inspiring practitioner talk by Spencer Bowman, CEO of Mettricks Southampton, who shared reflections on inclusive leadership from an industry perspective. His contribution brought the research themes to life, highlighting the importance of values-led leadership, listening, culture-building and creating environments where people feel able to contribute meaningfully.

The launch concluded with discussion on how the Playbook could be used by SMEs and third-sector organisations to support better conversations, fairer decision-making and stronger stakeholder relationships. Participants were invited to reflect on which tools felt most useful, what would make the Playbook easier to apply, and which stakeholder voices were hardest to include.

The Lighthouse Project has demonstrated the value of bringing together academic insight and practitioner experience to co-create practical resources for local organisations. The Inclusive Leadership Playbook will now be further refined following feedback from the launch event and shared with participating organisations and regional partners.

To know more and to get involved contact Dr Foteini Papadopoulou, Foteini.Papadopoulou@soton.ac.uk

International Sustainability Reporting Training and Knowledge Exchange

The programme provided students with practical knowledge of sustainability and ESG reporting, helping them understand how sustainability information is developed, communicated and used by organisations. Alongside the formal training, students had opportunities to meet with sustainability professionals and learn from their experiences of implementing sustainability practices and reporting within organisations. These interactions enabled students to connect academic concepts and reporting frameworks with the challenges and opportunities faced by businesses in practice.

An important component of the programme was a visit to New Forest Fruit, a sustainable fruit producer in Hampshire. The visit provided students with first-hand experience of how sustainability can be embedded in agricultural and food-production businesses. Students explored practical approaches to resource management, biodiversity, renewable energy, sustainable farming and the use of technology and innovation. The visit demonstrated how sustainability extends beyond reporting to the way organisations manage their operations and create value responsibly.

The programme also included activities exploring innovation and artificial intelligence in education, giving students an opportunity to consider the role of emerging technologies in learning and knowledge development. Together with cultural and academic activities, these experiences provided a broader perspective on sustainability, innovation and responsible business in the UK.

The programme created valuable opportunities for international knowledge exchange and relationship building between students and academics from China and the UK. It strengthened the relationship between Southampton Business School and Minjiang University and contributed to CRAAG's commitment to international engagement, sustainability education and knowledge exchange between academia and practice.

The successful programme provides a foundation for further collaboration in sustainability reporting, professional education, research, student mobility and international knowledge exchange.