SPJIMR Dean Varun Nagaraj Joins AACSB Board, Making History for India

Varun Nagaraj: A Historic Appointment in Business Education

In a significant achievement for Indian business education, Varun Nagaraj, the Dean of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan's S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR), has been appointed to the Board of Directors of the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). This appointment marks a pivotal moment, as Nagaraj becomes the first representative from an Indian business school in the AACSB's 110-year history. His term will commence on July 1, 2026, and will last three years, where he will focus on enhancing the quality and impact of business education across the Asia-Pacific region.

Lily Bi, President and CEO of AACSB, extended her congratulations, highlighting the significance of Nagaraj's appointment amid the organization’s longstanding commitment to business education. "Dean Nagaraj's leadership qualities will further strengthen AACSB's mission to connect, improve, and transform business education globally," she stated. This recognition not only showcases Nagaraj's individual accomplishments but also places Indian business schools on a global pedestal within AACSB's influential network.

Nagaraj brings over three decades of extensive industry experience to his role. His previous positions have included roles as CEO of venture-backed companies and publicly traded firms, as well as a partner at PRTM Management Consulting. He is also a seasoned academic with a research focus on responsible innovation, product management, and entrepreneurship. His research has been published in respected journals and contributed to broader discussions on innovation and business practices.

His educational background is equally impressive, holding a BTech in Electrical Engineering from IIT Bombay, an MS from North Carolina State University, an MBA from Boston University, and a PhD from the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University. These qualifications equip him with a robust framework for tackling the evolving challenges of business education.

SPJIMR, renowned for its forward-thinking, socially aware approach, has been consistently rated among the top business schools in India and globally. With rankings such as 35th worldwide according to the Financial Times and recognition from publications like Business Today, SPJIMR has solidified its status as a leader in management education. It aims to impact management practices while fostering the value-based growth of its students and alumni.

In an enthusiastic statement, Nagaraj expressed his eagerness to collaborate with global peers to amplify the influence of business schools. He underscored SPJIMR's commitment to meaningful innovation and societal impact, which aligns closely with AACSB's vision.

As the AACSB approaches its 110th anniversary, Nagaraj's input will likely help shape a future that embraces new educational paradigms and fosters global connectivity in business education. This appointment not only enriches AACSB's board but also brings a vital perspective from one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.

For more information about SPJIMR and its programs, visit SPJIMR.org.