Nina Gorovaia | Management and Accounting | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nina Gorovaia | Management and Accounting | Best Researcher Award

Professor from Frederick University, Cyprus

Nina Gorovaia-Zenios is an accomplished academic and researcher with extensive experience in strategic management, franchising, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and knowledge management. With over two decades of teaching and research, she has established herself as a respected scholar with a global perspective. She currently serves as a tenured Associate Professor of Business Administration at Frederick University in Cyprus, where she coordinates the Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration program and actively contributes to curriculum design, particularly in distance learning. Nina’s research contributions are widely recognized, with publications in prestigious Scopus Q1 journals and collaborations with international scholars. She has been involved in several high-profile, European-funded research projects focusing on green practices, franchising networks, and crowdsourcing language learning platforms. In addition to her academic roles, she has been a visiting professor at the University of Vienna and Helsinki Business School, enhancing her global teaching footprint. Nina is actively engaged in professional organizations such as the International Society of Franchising, where she also serves on the board. Her professional journey highlights a commitment to delivering impactful research, promoting sustainability, and advancing teaching excellence in international business and strategy.

Professional Profile

Education

Nina Gorovaia-Zenios holds a PhD in Social and Economic Sciences from the University of Economics and Business Administration in Vienna, Austria, where she graduated with honors in 2002. Her doctoral research explored institutional influences on inter-organizational networks in Russia. Prior to that, she earned a Master’s degree in Economics and Area Studies from Moscow State University, where her thesis focused on foreign direct investment in South Africa. Her undergraduate studies, also at Moscow State University, combined economics and regional development with Afro-Asian studies, and she achieved high honors throughout her academic training. Nina’s education is further enriched by a sabbatical year at the Wharton Business School, University of Pennsylvania, where she completed five advanced PhD-level courses in research methods, econometrics, and computational linguistics, which significantly strengthened her methodological expertise. She also has extensive training in languages, including English, Swahili, and Portuguese. Her educational journey has been distinguished by international exposure, cross-cultural competencies, and an interdisciplinary approach that continues to shape her research and teaching philosophy. These academic achievements have positioned her as a versatile and globally engaged researcher in the fields of business administration and strategy.

Professional Experience

Nina Gorovaia-Zenios has built an impressive professional career in academia, with substantial teaching, research, and administrative experience. Since 2008, she has been affiliated with Frederick University, Cyprus, where she currently holds the position of Tenured Associate Professor of Business Administration. She has played a critical role as the coordinator of the Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration program since 2019 and has been instrumental in the design and accreditation of both conventional and distance-learning programs. In addition, she has served as Deputy Head of the Business Administration Department for several terms. Nina has also held visiting professorships at the University of Vienna, where she has taught graduate seminars annually since 2009, and at Helsinki Business School, where she taught undergraduate strategic management. Her earlier academic positions include Assistant Professor at European University Cyprus. Nina’s professional portfolio extends beyond academia; she managed her own translation business in Vienna, Austria, and worked as an export manager in an Austrian firm. Her global teaching engagements, involvement in European research projects, and contributions to curriculum innovation reflect a dynamic and influential academic career that has made a lasting impact on both students and the international research community.

Research Interest

Nina Gorovaia-Zenios’s research interests lie at the intersection of strategic management, franchising, corporate social responsibility (CSR), greenwashing detection, international business, and knowledge management. Her work often examines how inter-organizational networks, such as franchise systems, operate across global markets, and she is particularly interested in how contractual governance, decentralization, and knowledge transfer mechanisms influence organizational performance. Recently, her research has expanded to include the application of natural language processing (NLP) techniques to detect greenwashing in corporate reports, demonstrating her commitment to integrating technology into social and management research. Nina is also engaged in exploring the intersection of CSR and brand competitiveness within franchise networks and has published impactful studies on the performance of knowledge transfer mechanisms in franchising. Her participation in European-funded projects reflects her growing interest in the development of sustainable tourism, digital transformation in education, and crowdsourcing techniques for language learning. Additionally, her research on family businesses and international market entry strategies illustrates a broad academic focus on how organizations navigate cross-cultural and cross-border challenges. Nina’s interdisciplinary approach allows her to connect theory with practical solutions, and her work contributes meaningfully to advancing both academic knowledge and managerial practices.

Research Skills

Nina Gorovaia-Zenios possesses a comprehensive suite of research skills that bridge qualitative and quantitative methodologies. She is highly proficient in research design, data collection, and advanced statistical analysis, supported by her rigorous training in econometrics and predictive analytics at Wharton Business School. Her expertise includes knowledge of structural equation modeling, regression analysis, and network theory applications. Nina has effectively applied these skills in empirical studies involving franchising networks, CSR strategies, and international business contexts. She is also adept in using natural language processing (NLP) to detect greenwashing, a cutting-edge skill that demonstrates her ability to integrate technology into management research. Her strong project management capabilities are evident from her leadership in coordinating large-scale, European-funded research initiatives. Additionally, she has significant experience in cross-country data collection, analysis of contract structures, and the development of case studies and teaching materials. Nina’s extensive experience as a reviewer for leading journals has honed her ability to critically evaluate research, ensuring methodological rigor and theoretical contribution. Her ability to supervise doctoral students and contribute to interdisciplinary research collaborations further highlights her versatile research competencies that are aligned with global academic standards.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her distinguished career, Nina Gorovaia-Zenios has received multiple awards and honors that reflect her scholarly excellence and contributions to both research and teaching. In 2022, she won the Best Student Paper Award from the International Society of Franchising, recognizing her impactful research in the field. That same year, she was honored with the Best Teaching Case Study Award by YUM! Brands, underscoring her ability to translate academic research into practical, real-world applications for students. Her earlier accolades include the Best Paper Reviewer Award from the International Society of Franchising in 2017, which attests to her critical role in maintaining high research standards in the academic community. Additionally, she received a prize for the best dissertation at the University of Vienna’s international workshop and was awarded the second prize for her research on Russia’s financial market at Moscow State University. Nina’s contributions have also been supported by several prestigious European research grants, including Erasmus+, COST Actions, and Ernst Mach post-doctoral scholarships. These recognitions reflect not only the academic quality of her work but also her active engagement in promoting innovative research and impactful teaching in international business and franchising.

Conclusion

Nina Gorovaia-Zenios stands out as a globally recognized academic whose research, teaching, and leadership have made substantial contributions to the field of business administration. Her comprehensive educational background, rich professional experience, and an impressive array of international research projects position her as a leader in her domain. Her ability to bridge theory and practice, particularly in franchising, CSR, and greenwashing detection, adds significant value to both the academic and professional communities. Nina’s work has consistently demonstrated originality, methodological rigor, and societal relevance. Her active involvement in academic governance, program coordination, PhD supervision, and international collaborations exemplifies her dedication to academic excellence and institutional development. She has also shown a keen ability to adapt to emerging research areas, including the application of natural language processing and crowdsourcing techniques. With numerous high-impact publications, participation in prestigious conferences, and recognition through several international awards, Nina Gorovaia-Zenios is a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her career reflects a perfect blend of scholarly impact, teaching innovation, and community contribution, which collectively underline her suitability for continued recognition and academic leadership.

Publications Top Notes

1. The Use of Knowledge Transfer Mechanisms in Franchising

  • Authors: N. Gorovaia, J. Windsperger

  • Journal: Knowledge and Process Management 17 (1), 12-21

  • Year: 2010

  • Citations: 91

2. Determinants of Knowledge Transfer Strategy in Franchising: Integrating Knowledge-Based and Relational Governance Perspectives

  • Authors: N. Gorovaia, J. Windsperger

  • Journal: The Service Industries Journal 33 (12), 1117-1134

  • Year: 2013

  • Citations: 77

3. Knowledge Attributes and the Choice of Knowledge Transfer Mechanism in Networks: The Case of Franchising

  • Authors: J. Windsperger, N. Gorovaia

  • Journal: Journal of Management & Governance 15, 617-640

  • Year: 2011

  • Citations: 71

4. Real Options, Intangible Resources and Performance of Franchise Networks

  • Authors: N. Gorovaia, J. Windsperger

  • Journal: Managerial and Decision Economics 34 (3-5), 183-194

  • Year: 2013

  • Citations: 61

5. The Choice of Contract Duration in Franchising Networks: A Transaction Cost and Resource-Based View

  • Authors: N. Gorovaia, J. Windsperger

  • Journal: Industrial Marketing Management

  • Year: 2018

  • Citations: 60

6. The Knowledge Transfer Strategy of Franchising Firms: Evidence from the Austrian Franchise Sector

  • Authors: J. Windsperger, N. Gorovaia

  • Source: Strategy and Governance of Networks: Cooperatives, Franchising, and …

  • Year: 2008

  • Citations: 24

7. Identifying Greenwashing in Corporate-Social Responsibility Reports Using Natural-Language Processing

  • Author: M.M. Nina Gorovaia

  • Journal: European Financial Management

  • Year: 2024

  • Citations: 22

8. Performance of Franchising Networks: Conceptual Framework

  • Author: N. Gorovaia

  • Source: Available at SSRN 3024308

  • Year: 2003

  • Citations: 18

9. Determinants, Transactional Alignment, and Performance Outcomes of Franchise Contract Length

  • Author: N. Gorovaia

  • Journal: International Journal of Retail and Distribution Management

  • Year: 2018

  • Citations: 17

10. Performance of Knowledge Transfer Mechanisms: The Case of Franchising Networks

  • Authors: N. Gorovaia, M. Pajić, J. Windsperger

  • Journal: Industrial Marketing Management 115, 539-549

  • Year: 2023

  • Citations: 16

Cinzia Battistella | Business | Sustainable Engineering Leadership Award

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Prof. Cinzia Battistella | Business | Sustainable Engineering Leadership Award

professor at University of Udine, Italy

Cinzia Battistella is an Associate Professor of Management Engineering at the Polytechnic Department of Engineering and Architecture at the University of Udine, a position she has held since October 2018. With an academic background grounded in excellence and a progressive career spanning prominent academic institutions, she has established herself as a leader in the fields of strategy and innovation management. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Management Engineering from the University of Udine in 2004, followed by a Master’s degree in 2007 with top honors. She earned her PhD in Management Engineering and Quantity Surveying at the University of Padova in 2011. Her research focuses on strategic and organizational challenges in complex, uncertain environments, particularly through the lenses of innovation and strategic foresight. With over 100 publications in highly reputed international journals, she has contributed significantly to the scientific community. Additionally, she has authored two international books and actively leads collaborative initiatives across Europe, including a Special Interest Group on Strategic Foresight. Her work with public and private sector stakeholders underscores her applied approach to academic research. With a keen focus on future-oriented strategies and innovation ecosystems, she remains a driving force in shaping the evolution of management engineering.

Professional Profile

Education

Cinzia Battistella’s educational background reflects a steadfast commitment to academic excellence and a solid foundation in engineering and management sciences. She began her academic journey at the University of Udine, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Management Engineering in 2004. Demonstrating outstanding academic potential, she went on to complete her Master’s degree in the same field at the University of Udine in 2007, graduating with the maximum grade of 110/110. Her pursuit of advanced knowledge led her to the University of Padova, where she was awarded a PhD in Management Engineering and Quantity Surveying in 2011 as part of the XXIII PhD cycle. Her doctoral research marked the beginning of her in-depth exploration into the complex dynamics of strategic and innovation management. This educational trajectory not only equipped her with a strong theoretical and analytical toolkit but also cultivated her interest in solving real-world organizational and strategic challenges. Her academic training laid the groundwork for a distinguished research and teaching career and remains the cornerstone of her multidisciplinary approach, which bridges engineering principles with managerial and strategic foresight in uncertain and dynamic environments.

Professional Experience

Cinzia Battistella’s professional career spans academic and research institutions, where she has contributed significantly to both teaching and applied research. She began her professional journey as a research fellow at Area Science Park from 2007 to 2010, where she engaged in early-stage innovation research. From 2010 to 2013, she worked at the University of Udine’s Department of Electrical, Management, and Mechanical Engineering, continuing to build her expertise. She was appointed Assistant Professor at the Free University of Bozen-Bolzano from 2013 to 2016, where she also served in academic leadership roles. From 2016 to 2018, she held an Associate Professorship at the University of Siena’s Department of Information Engineering and Mathematical Sciences. Since 2018, she has been Associate Professor at the University of Udine, teaching courses such as Complexity Management, Innovation Management, and Project Management in master’s programs. She has coordinated numerous research projects, collaborated with leading companies like Telecom Italia and Illycaffè, and held strategic roles, including scientific coordination of a master’s program. Her professional path reflects a consistent trajectory of academic growth, project leadership, and impactful collaboration with both public and private stakeholders across national and international contexts.

Research Interest

Cinzia Battistella’s research is deeply rooted in the study of strategy and innovation management, particularly as they relate to organizations operating in highly uncertain and complex environments. Her work emphasizes the dual themes of open and collaborative innovation and strategic foresight, seeking to address how companies can adapt and thrive amidst technological disruption and market volatility. Key areas of focus include the development of new products and services, the evolution of business models, and the formation of business ecosystems. She is especially interested in how organizations build strategic agility and future orientation to maintain competitiveness. Her research intersects with complexity theory, exploring how firms manage non-linear, dynamic systems in their decision-making processes. Through empirical studies, theoretical frameworks, and applied methodologies, Battistella contributes to a broader understanding of innovation governance, organizational adaptability, and long-term strategic planning. She has developed cross-disciplinary approaches, integrating insights from engineering, social science, and business strategy. Her passion for advancing strategic thinking has led her to co-found a European Special Interest Group on foresight and agility. As such, her research continues to shape the discourse around how firms can navigate complexity and seize opportunities for sustainable innovation.

Research Skills

Cinzia Battistella possesses a robust set of research skills developed through years of interdisciplinary work in management engineering. Her methodological expertise spans both qualitative and quantitative approaches, including case studies, foresight methodologies, innovation audits, scenario analysis, and systems thinking. She has demonstrated proficiency in designing and managing large-scale research projects funded by competitive grants and partnerships with private and public institutions. Her strong analytical capabilities enable her to model complex organizational systems and derive actionable insights from multifaceted data. She is particularly skilled in translating theoretical constructs into practical frameworks, helping firms strategize around innovation and complexity. Battistella is also adept in research dissemination, having published extensively in high-impact journals and presented her work in international forums. Her ability to lead collaborative research is evident in her supervision of PhD students, research fellows, and associates, fostering a vibrant research environment. Additionally, her experience in coordinating European and national research networks has strengthened her collaborative and project management skills. These research capabilities not only enhance her academic output but also reinforce her engagement with industry stakeholders, bridging the gap between theory and practice through evidence-based strategies and applied innovation models.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her academic and professional journey, Cinzia Battistella has earned several distinctions that reflect her excellence in research, teaching, and service to the academic community. Her academic achievements began with the conferral of the maximum grade in her Master’s degree program, highlighting her scholarly dedication. She has held prestigious research fellowships and appointments across top Italian universities, underscoring her recognized expertise in management engineering. Her extensive publication record in top-tier journals and the authorship of two international books have cemented her reputation as a thought leader in strategic foresight and innovation. Beyond individual achievements, she has played a key role in institutional quality assurance, serving on the Quality Presidium at the University of Udine and formerly at the Free University of Bozen-Bolzano. She has also taken on leadership roles such as scientific coordinator of the Master in Innovation Management at the University of Udine. Her collaborative initiatives with global firms like Vodafone and Illycaffè have further showcased her applied impact. Moreover, her contribution as an expert advisor on management engineering for the Friuli Venezia Giulia recovery plan highlights her role in regional development and policy impact, attesting to her broad influence in both academic and applied contexts.

Conclusion

Cinzia Battistella’s career embodies the intersection of academic rigor, innovative research, and impactful collaboration. As an Associate Professor at the University of Udine, she has built a multidisciplinary portfolio that connects strategy, foresight, and innovation within complex systems. Her educational foundation, combined with a decade-plus of teaching and research across prominent institutions, demonstrates her unwavering commitment to advancing management engineering. Through her publications, leadership in special interest groups, and mentorship of emerging scholars, she has helped shape the direction of contemporary research in strategic foresight and innovation ecosystems. Equally adept in academia and applied research, she has bridged theoretical models with real-world challenges, engaging industry partners and public organizations to co-create knowledge. Her contributions to quality assurance, curriculum development, and regional policy reflect her broader institutional impact. As a scholar and leader, Battistella continues to inspire through her integrative approach, guiding organizations and students alike in navigating the future. Her work not only enriches academic discourse but also provides actionable insights for navigating complexity and embracing innovation in an ever-changing global environment.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Charting the temporal evolution of stakeholder involvement in business model for sustainability: A comprehensive bibliometric review

    • Authors: Giovanna G. Attanasio, Cinzia C. Battistella

  2. Title: B-Corp Certification: Systematic Literature Review and Research Agenda

    • Authors: Giovanna G. Attanasio, Cinzia C. Battistella, Elia E. Chizzolini

  3. Title: Future ecosystem business model tool: Design science and field test in the efuel ecosystem towards the sustainability transition

    • Authors: Giovanna G. Culot, Cinzia C. Battistella

    • Year: 2024

    • Citations: 1

  4. Title: How do seaports use foresight to face environmental sustainability disruptions?

    • Authors: Giovanna G. Attanasio, Cinzia C. Battistella, Elia E. Chizzolini

    • Year: 2024

  5. Title: The impact of cultural dimensions on project management performance

    1. Authors: Cinzia C. Battistella, Thomas T. Bortolotti, Stefania S. Boscari, Fabio F. Nonino, Giulia G. Palombi

    2. Year: 2024

    3. Citations: 7

Hany Ragab | Business, Management and Accounting |Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Hany Ragab | Business, Management and Accounting |Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Business Administration Department, Cairo University,  Egypt

Hany Ragab Ibrahim, an Assistant Professor in the Business Administration Department at Cairo University’s Faculty of Commerce, is a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. He holds an M.Sc. in Business Administration, with a thesis focusing on the relationship between perceived images of Egyptian tourist destinations and tourists’ behavioral intentions. Hany has published impactful research in esteemed journals, including studies on ethnocentric tendencies among airline travelers and Egypt’s perceived destination image. His active engagement in conferences further demonstrates his commitment to addressing contemporary issues in tourism management. With extensive teaching experience across various subjects and a solid foundation in statistical analysis and marketing research, Hany continuously seeks professional development through academic training. His dedication to research and education, combined with his significant contributions to the field, positions him as an exemplary researcher deserving of this prestigious award.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Hany Ragab Ibrahim completed his M.Sc. in Business Administration at Cairo University, focusing his thesis on the relationship between the perceived image of Egyptian touristic destinations and tourists’ future behavioral intentions. This research not only underscores his academic prowess but also reflects his dedication to understanding the dynamics of tourism marketing. Prior to this, he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the same institution, graduating with honors. Throughout his academic journey, Hany has participated in various training programs, enhancing his skills in effective communication, financial and legal aspects of university work, and the preparation of competitive research projects. His commitment to ongoing professional development is evident through his participation in courses at the Faculty and Leadership Development Centre, Cairo University. This solid educational foundation, combined with his dedication to research and teaching, positions Hany as a valuable asset to the academic community and a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award.

Professional Experience

Hany Ragab Ibrahim has a robust professional background as an Assistant Professor in the Business Administration Department at Cairo University, where he has been involved in teaching various undergraduate courses since 2011. His expertise spans Organizational Behaviour, Principles of Management, Strategic Management, and Marketing, allowing him to provide a comprehensive education to students. In addition to his teaching role, Hany has conducted applied training at the National Bank of Egypt, which has enriched his understanding of real-world business operations. His active participation in academic training courses at the Faculty and Leadership Development Centre has further enhanced his skills in effective communication, project preparation, and innovative teaching methods. Hany’s commitment to continuous professional development is evident through his completion of training in international research publication and digital transformation, equipping him with the tools necessary to contribute effectively to both academic and industry environments. This diverse experience positions him as a well-rounded educator and researcher.

Research Interest

Hany Ragab Ibrahim’s research interests are primarily focused on tourism marketing and consumer behavior, with a particular emphasis on understanding how perceived images of destinations influence tourist intentions and behaviors. His work investigates the dynamics of ethnocentrism among travelers and its effects on their decision-making processes regarding airline services and travel destinations. Hany is also interested in exploring mixed-images destinations and their relationship with destination loyalty and travel experiences. By integrating quantitative and qualitative research methods, he aims to provide insights that can help tourism stakeholders enhance their marketing strategies and improve customer satisfaction. Additionally, Hany seeks to understand the implications of economic crises on travelers’ willingness to pay for services, contributing to the development of more resilient tourism marketing frameworks. Through his research, Hany aims to bridge the gap between theoretical insights and practical applications in the tourism industry, ultimately enhancing the overall travel experience for tourists.

Research Skills

Hany Ragab Ibrahim possesses a diverse array of research skills that significantly enhance his contributions to the field of business administration and tourism marketing. Proficient in statistical analysis, he utilizes advanced software such as SPSS, AMOS, and SMART-PLS to conduct rigorous data analysis, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of his research findings. His expertise in data collection and marketing research techniques allows him to design comprehensive studies that address critical questions in tourism behavior and management. Hany’s ability to construct measurement scales, as demonstrated in his publications, showcases his methodological rigor and innovative approach to research. Additionally, his strong communication skills facilitate the effective dissemination of research results through presentations at conferences and publications in reputable journals. Hany’s commitment to ongoing professional development is evident through his participation in academic training courses, further refining his research abilities and positioning him as a leader in his field.

Awards and Honors

Hany Ragab Ibrahim has received several prestigious awards and honors throughout his academic career, reflecting his exceptional contributions to the field of Business Administration and tourism research. Notably, he was recognized for his outstanding thesis at Cairo University, which investigated the relationship between the perceived image of Egyptian touristic destinations and tourists’ future behavioral intentions. His research articles, published in leading international journals, have garnered accolades for their innovative approach and significant impact on understanding consumer behavior in tourism. Additionally, Hany’s active participation in international conferences has earned him commendations for his insightful presentations, particularly on topics such as travelers’ ethnocentric tendencies and their effects on airline services. His commitment to teaching excellence has also been acknowledged through various awards from the Faculty of Commerce at Cairo University. These honors underscore Hany’s dedication to advancing knowledge in his field and his role as a leading researcher and educator.

Conclusion

Hany Ragab Ibrahim exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His solid academic qualifications, impactful publications, active participation in conferences, extensive teaching experience, and strong technical skills collectively demonstrate his dedication to advancing research in the field of business administration and tourism. His contributions significantly enhance the academic landscape, making him a deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition.

Publication Top Notes

  • Ragab, H., Mahrous, A. A., & Ghoneim, A. (2020). A proposed measurement scale for mixed-images destinations and its interrelationships with destination loyalty and travel experience. Tourism Management Perspectives, 35, 100677. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tmp.2020.100677
    • Citations: 84
  • Ragab, H., Mahrous, A. A., & Ghoneim, A. (2020). Egypt’s perceived destination image and its impact on tourist’s future behavioural intentions. International Journal of Tourism Cities, 6(2), 449-466. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJTC-07-2019-0062
    • Citations: 69
  • Ragab, H., Polo-Peña, A. I., & Mahrous, A. A. (2023). Airline travellers’ ethnocentric tendencies and their impact on travellers’ behaviours: Extending consumer ethnocentrism to airline services. Tourism Management Perspectives, 49, 101200. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tmp.2023.101200
    • Citations: 4