Professor Kieran Fernandes has been appointed as our new Executive Dean.
Professor Fernandes will take up his new role in April 2025. He will be a member of the University Executive Committee and will have a key role in delivering our University Strategy for the Business School. In particular, he will be responsible for the strategic development and financial performance of the Business School.
Professor Fernandes is currently Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Development & Engagement for Durham University and is Professor of Operations Management at the Business School.
He held academic positions at the Universities of Warwick and York before joining Durham University in 2013 as Head of Department for Management and Marketing at the Business School. Since then, he has held several leadership roles including, Associate Dean for Internationalisation and Executive Dean (Interim).
Professor Fernandes brings over 20 years’ experience in academic leadership, research, and strategic development. His research interests include operations management, innovation diffusion and complex systems.
Through collaborations with industry, government, and international organisations, he has advanced regional economic development and fostered innovation, cementing Durham University’s position as a global leader in business education and research.
Kieran is a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences and of the Wolfson Research Institute and was the Executive Director of the Northern East LEP Innovation Observatory. He currently sits on a range of advisory panels and is an Academic Advisory Council member of the Chartered Management Institute.
Professor Fernandes succeeds Professor Cathy Cassell, who is retiring in April.
Professor Fernandes said: “Durham University Business School is renowned for its academic excellence and global impact. Building on the School’s strong foundations, I look forward to working collaboratively with our exceptional community to foster innovation, inspire future leaders, and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world.”
Professor Mike Shipman, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost at Durham University said: “Kieran has a clear and exciting vision for the Business School, with excellent leadership skills to deliver it. He has a strong track record for driving interdisciplinary initiatives and engaging effectively with business, which will further contribute to taking the School to new heights."
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