Biography

Dr. Augustine Okeke is a seasoned academic and practitioner with over 12 years of experience in business management, corporate governance, supply chain management and sustainability. He is a Lecturer in Management and Sustainability at the University of Cumbria, Lancaster. Dr. Okeke's scholarly work is distinguished by its focus on the intersection of small businesses, supply chains and sustainability reporting, particularly within emerging economies. Dr. Okeke's academic credentials are a testament to his diverse expertise. He holds a PhD in Management, where his research explored institutional influences on sustainability and supply chain management practices in the Nigerian oil and gas industry, further underscoring his deep understanding of African business contexts. His MSc in Purchasing and Supply Chain Management from Robert Gordon University, where he was awarded the prestigious PTDF Scholarship, adds to his comprehensive knowledge. Dr. Okeke's research contributions are extensive and impactful, with numerous peer-reviewed publications in high-ranking journals. His work includes critical analyses of corporate governance frameworks, the effectiveness of sustainability reporting practices, and the role of supply chain management in fostering sustainable business operations. Dr. Okeke's research contributions are extensive and impactful, with numerous peer-reviewed publications in high-ranking journals such as Corporate Governance, Organization and Environment, Energy and Environment, Sustainability Indicator, Journal of Sustainability, Practitioner Research in Higher Education, Journal of Family Business Management, Journal of Sustainability Research, and International Journal of Management, Economics and Social Science, to mention a few. His article "Towards Sustainability in the Global Oil and Gas Industry: Identifying Where the Emphasis Lies," published in Environmental and Sustainability Indicators, is particularly notable for its insights into the sustainability practices of the oil and gas sector. In addition to his academic pursuits, Dr. Okeke has significant practical experience in the banking and finance sectors, having held roles at First Bank Nigeria Limited, Union Bank PLC, and Wema Bank PLC. These positions have provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the practical applications of family business succession planning, corporate governance and sustainability principles. Dr. Okeke is a member of several esteemed professional bodies, including the British Academy of Management (BAM), the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (MCIPS), and the Nigerian Institute of Management (MNIM). His commitment to professional development and academic excellence is evident in his active participation in numerous conferences and workshops, where he has presented his research and engaged with other experts in the field. Dr Okeke's teaching philosophy centres on fostering critical thinking and practical skills in his students. He is highly regarded for his ability to deliver engaging lectures and seminars, both in person and online. He has been recognised for his excellence in teaching with several awards, including the Most Inspirational Member of Staff at the University of Sunderland's Student Nominated Teaching Awards 2022.