Varun Nagaraj Becomes First Indian Dean on AACSB Board of Directors

Varun Nagaraj Appointed to AACSB Board of Directors

In a groundbreaking development for Indian business education, Dr. Varun Nagaraj, 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 historic first, as he becomes the first representative from an Indian institution to take a seat on the global board since the organization’s inception 110 years ago.

A New Era in Business Education Representation

The AACSB Board plays a crucial role in setting standards for business education worldwide, promoting excellence in various aspects of academic administration and student outcomes. Dr. Nagaraj's selection is not just a personal achievement but symbolizes India's growing influence in the global education arena.

Lily Bi, the President and CEO of AACSB, emphasized the significance of this milestone, stating, "As we celebrate 110 years of advancing quality and impact in business education worldwide, this milestone marks another meaningful chapter in our history. Dean Nagaraj's leadership and perspective will further strengthen AACSB's mission to connect, elevate, and transform business education globally."

The Vision of Dr. Nagaraj

Dr. Nagaraj's three-year term will officially commence on July 1, 2026. Upon his appointment, he expressed a commitment to collaborating with international colleagues to enhance the impact of business schools globally, aligning with SPJIMR's mission of fostering wise innovation and social impact in education.

As a seasoned practitioner-academic, Dr. Nagaraj brings approximately three decades of industry knowledge to this role, which includes significant positions as the CEO of both venture-funded startups and public corporations. He is also a partner at PRTM Management Consulting and has specialized research interests in responsible innovation, product management, and entrepreneurship.

Academic Credentials and Contributions

Dr. Nagaraj's academic background is impressive, holding degrees from prestigious institutions: 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. His academic work and published research have appeared in notable journals, further characterizing him as a prominent figure in the realm of business education.

He is proud of SPJIMR's innovative approach, which is focused on not just advancing academic standards but also making a profound societal impact, aligning with AACSB’s goals.

SPJIMR: A Leader in Business Education

Established in 1916, AACSB has consistently forged a pathway for excellence in business education, maintaining its status as the world’s leading accreditation body for business schools. With more than 100 countries under its accreditation system, the organization highlights the importance of quality, impact, and transformative learning.

Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan's S.P. Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR) holds a notable position in this landscape. It's recognized as one of India's leading postgraduate management institutes, ranked as the #35 business school globally by the Financial Times MiM rankings and consistently among the top five in India, as rated by Business Today. It has also received accolades for its societal impact, reflecting its commitment to socially responsible management practices.

The institute is distinguished by its international 'Triple Crown' of accreditations from EQUIS, AACSB, and AMBA, underscoring its dedication to achieving excellence in education.

The Future of SPJIMR and Business Education in India

With Dr. Nagaraj's new role, the future looks promising not only for SPJIMR but for business education in India as a whole. His appointment on the AACSB board serves as an inspiration for various educational institutions in India and showcases the importance of representation in global discussions about educational standards. It marks a progressive step towards more collaborative and innovative practices in business education, ultimately enhancing learning outcomes for students globally.

This historic appointment is sure to foster new partnerships and initiatives that will help transform business education, driving significant changes that resonate far beyond the academic walls. SPJIMR is poised to harness this opportunity to continue influencing managerial practices, not only for its students but for the broader community and society at large.