Nina Gorovaia | Management and Accounting | Best Researcher Award

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

YUN ZHONG | Management and Accounting | Best Research Article Award

Dr. YUN ZHONG | Management and Accounting | Best Research Article Award

Associate Professor from CHONGQING UNIVERSITY, China

Zhong Yun is an Associate Professor at the School of Management Science and Real Estate, Chongqing University, and Director of the Planning Center of Architectural Planning and Design Institute of Chongqing University. His academic and professional career spans a wide range of research areas, including project management, industrial planning, urban economy, and project investment and financing. Yun has worked extensively in urban renewal projects and consultations, focusing on the planning and development of key infrastructure projects in various regions of China. His contributions to the field are recognized by his involvement in multiple high-level advisory roles, including serving as a National Sponge City Pilot Assessment Expert and a member of the Chongqing Sponge City Construction Expert Committee. In addition, Yun has published numerous papers in prominent journals such as IEEE Transactions on Intelligent Transportation Systems and Energy and Buildings, establishing him as a key figure in his field. His professional experience and research influence span both academic research and practical urban development projects, reflecting his broad expertise in the integration of sustainability and economic development in urban planning.

Professional Profile

Education

Zhong Yun holds an academic background grounded in urban planning and project management, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and the economic impacts of construction projects. His formal education and research have contributed significantly to his professional path, with his knowledge evolving through both academic study and real-world applications. He has worked with experts across disciplines, integrating theory into practice, particularly in the development of urban infrastructure. Zhong’s educational qualifications, paired with his continuous involvement in research and consultancy, make him a respected figure in the academic community. The combination of his education and practical experiences ensures his ability to contribute valuable insights into the management of urban environments, infrastructure development, and environmental sustainability.

Professional Experience

Zhong Yun’s professional experience is diverse and influential, covering academic roles, research, consultancy, and advisory positions. As an Associate Professor at Chongqing University, he has significantly contributed to the academic environment, training future professionals and leading research on urban planning and sustainable development. He has also held several prominent roles in various urban development projects. Notably, Yun has been involved in the planning and consultation of large-scale infrastructure projects, such as the comprehensive pipe gallery and smart city development projects across multiple regions in China. His work has influenced various sectors, from industrial planning to environmental sustainability, where his input is essential in shaping development strategies. His extensive professional experience is complemented by his advisory roles, where he influences policies and strategies in urban and environmental development.

Research Interest

Zhong Yun’s research interests lie in the intersection of urban development, sustainability, and infrastructure management. Specifically, his work focuses on project management, industrial planning, urban economy, and project investment and financing. Yun has explored the application of spatial machine learning in evaluating urban infrastructure, particularly focusing on environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, and resource management. His research also delves into the role of renewable energy adoption in residential sectors and transportation infrastructure performance. Yun’s expertise extends to understanding the socio-economic impacts of urban development and creating models that balance environmental, economic, and social factors in urban planning. His work in the sponge city initiative and smart city planning further highlights his commitment to building sustainable and resilient urban environments.

Research Skills

Zhong Yun’s research skills encompass a broad array of methodologies and tools, enabling him to approach urban planning and sustainability challenges from diverse angles. He is skilled in spatial data analysis, machine learning, and geographical information systems (GIS), which are integral to his research on infrastructure evaluation and environmental sustainability. Additionally, Yun possesses expertise in data-driven models, such as spatio-temporally stratified heterogeneity models, which he uses to study carbon emissions and other urban environmental factors. His interdisciplinary approach also incorporates aspects of industrial planning and economic modeling, ensuring that his research addresses the real-world challenges faced by urban developers and policymakers. Yun’s ability to apply these advanced skills to large-scale urban projects further underscores the practical relevance of his research in shaping sustainable cities.

Awards and Honors

Zhong Yun has received numerous awards and honors for his exceptional contributions to research and urban development. Notably, he has been recognized as a National Sponge City Pilot Assessment Expert, a member of the Chongqing Sponge City Construction Expert Committee, and an expert on underground comprehensive pipe galleries. His academic achievements are further highlighted by his recognition in various professional domains, such as his leadership roles in planning and consulting urban projects across China. Yun’s ability to integrate sustainability with urban development has earned him high-level accolades, including his significant contributions to projects focused on ecological transformation, green transportation, and urban renewal. These honors reflect his leadership and the practical impact of his work in the field of urban planning and development.

Conclusion

Zhong Yun’s work combines the academic rigor of a researcher with the practical insight of an urban planner. His extensive research in the fields of urban economy, project management, and sustainability has made significant contributions to the development of smart, sustainable cities. Yun’s ability to integrate new technologies, such as machine learning, with urban planning principles has led to innovative solutions in evaluating infrastructure performance and promoting environmental sustainability. His ongoing research projects, combined with his expertise in consulting, ensure that his work continues to shape urban development strategies and policies both in China and internationally. Zhong Yun’s balanced approach between research and real-world application positions him as a highly influential figure in the field of urban planning and sustainability.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Large Scale Pavement Crack Evaluation Through a Novel Spatial Machine Learning Approach Considering Geocomplexity
    Authors: Chunjiang Chen, Yongze Song, Ammar Shemery, Yun Zhong, Wu Peng
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 1

Hasan Abdullah | Management and Accounting | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hasan Abdullah | Management and Accounting | Best Researcher Award

College of Administration and Economics/Qurna at University of Basrah, Iraq.

Hasan Oudah Abdullah is a distinguished academic with a robust background in business administration and management. He holds advanced degrees, including an MBA and a Doctorate in Business Administration. His career spans various roles, including teaching and research positions at prominent institutions. Abdullah has significant experience in administrative and managerial capacities, contributing to the advancement of organizational and managerial knowledge. He has published extensively in international journals and has been actively involved in reviewing for several esteemed publications. His research interests cover organizational behavior, decision-making, and the impact of management practices on performance. Abdullah’s scholarly work, marked by a notable h-index and numerous publications, reflects his expertise and commitment to his field. His active engagement in conferences and editorial roles further underscores his influence and dedication to advancing knowledge in business administration and management.

Profile

Education

Hasan Oudah Abdullah’s educational background reflects a solid commitment to advancing his expertise in management and business administration. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration in 2010 from the University of Basra, where he demonstrated a strong grasp of managerial principles. Pursuing further academic growth, he completed a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in 2017, also at the University of Basra, with a focus on strategic management and organizational development. His academic journey culminated with a Doctorate in Business Administration in 2022, a significant milestone that underscored his deep engagement with advanced research in business management. His doctoral research has contributed to the field, showcasing his ability to address complex challenges in organizational analysis and management. Hasan’s educational credentials not only highlight his dedication to his field but also reflect a continuous pursuit of knowledge and professional excellence.

Professional Experience

Hasan Oudah Abdullah has accumulated extensive experience in academia and administration, reflecting a robust career in higher education. He currently serves as a faculty member and administrator at various institutions, where his roles include teaching, research, and leadership in educational programs. Abdullah has been involved in numerous capacities, including as a Director and a lecturer in management and organizational studies, showcasing his expertise in business and management fields. His professional journey also includes significant contributions as a reviewer for several reputable journals, demonstrating his engagement with the academic community. Abdullah’s career is marked by a strong focus on research in organizational behavior, leadership, and performance management. He has held various positions of responsibility over the years, including roles in strategic planning and academic administration, which underline his commitment to advancing educational excellence and research in his field.

Research Interest

Hasan Oudah Abdullah’s research interests span various facets of organizational management and human behavior. His work primarily focuses on organizational analysis, leadership, and sustainable performance, with a particular emphasis on the impact of ERP systems and organizational integrity. Abdullah has delved into the effects of leadership behavior on organizational excellence and employee engagement, examining how these factors influence work outcomes and organizational success. His research also addresses the role of self-efficacy and emotional intelligence in workplace dynamics, especially in the context of healthcare and technological adoption. Additionally, Abdullah explores the implications of perceived organizational politics on job satisfaction and employee responses, aiming to understand how different variables interact to shape organizational environments. His studies contribute to the development of effective management strategies and organizational practices, enhancing overall performance and employee well-being.

Research Skills

Hasan Oudah Abdullah exhibits a strong set of research skills honed through extensive academic and professional experience. His expertise spans across various research methodologies, including quantitative and qualitative analyses. He is proficient in statistical tools such as SPSS, essential for data analysis and interpretation in his studies. His research involves complex topics such as organizational behavior, health management, and socio-technical systems, demonstrating his ability to handle interdisciplinary challenges. Abdullah’s proficiency in reviewing scholarly articles and participating as a reviewer for prominent journals like the International Journal of Organizational Analysis and Current Psychology highlights his critical evaluation skills and deep understanding of academic standards. Additionally, his contributions to both local and international conferences, coupled with his ability to publish in high-impact journals, further underscores his capability in conducting and disseminating high-quality research. Overall, his comprehensive skill set ensures rigorous and impactful research outcomes.

Award and Recognition

Hasan Oudah Abdullah has received notable recognition for his contributions to the field of management and organizational studies. His extensive research has earned him a substantial h-index, with 7 in Web of Science, 91 in Scopus, and 15 in Google Scholar, reflecting his significant impact on the academic community. Abdullah’s work has been published in prestigious journals, such as the International Journal of Organizational Analysis and Current Psychology, showcasing his expertise in areas like organizational performance, leadership, and health management. His dedication is further highlighted by his roles as a reviewer for leading journals, where he provides valuable insights and feedback to advance research in his field. These accolades and his extensive publication record underscore Abdullah’s influential role and his commitment to advancing knowledge in management and organizational behavior.

Conclusion

Hasan Oudah Abdullah is a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award due to his prolific publication record, high citation metrics, and interdisciplinary research approach. To further enhance his candidacy, he might focus on increasing his h-index on Google Scholar, balancing his publication output, and emphasizing innovative and applied research outcomes. His experience as a reviewer and editor adds to his credentials, reflecting a well-rounded academic profile.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Exploring Customer Engagement Intentions with Interactive Smart Tables of AI for Full-Service Restaurants Sustainability
    • Authors: Al-Lami, G.T., AL-Abrrow, H., Abdullah, H.O., Alnoor, A.
    • Journal: Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems
    • Year: 2024
  2. Decoding workplace dynamics: unveiling perceptual and attitudinal drivers of counterproductive work behaviour using hybridSEMANN approach
    • Authors: Abdullah, H.O., Al-Abrrow, H.
    • Journal: International Journal of Organizational Analysis
    • Year: 2024
  3. Leadership styles and sustainable organizational energy in family business: modeling non-compensatory and nonlinear relationships
    • Authors: Abdullah, HO, Atshan, N., Al-Abrrow, H., Valeri, M., Erkol Bayram, G.
    • Journal: Journal of Family Business Management
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 20
  4. Effect of open-mindedness and humble behavior on innovation: mediator role of learning
    • Authors: Al-Abrrow, H., Fayez, A.S., Abdullah, H., Alnoor, A., Rexhepi, G.
    • Journal: International Journal of Emerging Markets
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 18
  5. Impact of perceived organisational justice, support and identity on workplace behaviour through job attitudes: verification in the role of LOC
    • Authors: Abdullah, H.O., Al-Abrrow, H.
    • Journal: International Journal of Organizational Analysis
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 11
  6. Predicting positive and negative behaviors at the workplace: Insights from multi-faceted perceptions and attitudes
    • Authors: Abdullah, H.O., AL-Abrrow, H.
    • Journal: Global Business and Organizational Excellence
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 11
  7. Influence of generational status on immigrants’ entrepreneurial intentions to start new ventures: a framework based on structural equation modeling and multicriteria decision-making
    • Authors: Khaw, K.W., Thurasamy, R., Al-Abrrow, H., Abdullah, H.O., Abbas, S.
    • Journal: Journal of Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 17
  8. How Are Brand Activity and Purchase Behavior Affected by Digital Marketing in the Metaverse Universe?
    • Authors: Atshan, N.A., Abdullah, H.O., Al-Abrrow, H., Abbas, S.
    • Journal: Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 1
  9. Encountering Covid-19 and perceived stress and the role of a health climate among medical workers
    • Authors: Abbas, S., AL-Abrrow, H., Abdullah, H.O., Khattak, Z.Z., Khaw, K.W.
    • Journal: Current Psychology
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 32
  10. Mobile Commerce and Social Commerce with the Development of Web 2.0 Technology
    • Authors: Atshan, N.A., Al-Abrrow, H., Abdullah, H.O., Al Halbusi, H.
    • Book Title: Artificial Neural Networks and Structural Equation Modeling: Marketing and Consumer Research Applications
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 2