RSS 1.0Chester Business School
The business department is based at both the Queen's Park and Warrington campuses and is well placed for students who wish to study in the North West. The department of Business was established at the University in 1999 and offers a range of Business and Management degrees at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. University of Chester Business School also has a solid portfolio of Research and Knowledge Transfer Projects with a range of organisations. These projects are intended to give mutual benefits for students and the region’s business community by providing access to the University’s resources, knowledge and expertise. The majority of the School’s research is applied in a practical context and it is committed to constructing and improving sustainable relationships with external organisations and businesses.
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Recent Submissions
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The role of grievance redressal mechanisms and sociopsychological factors in fostering trust in cryptocurrency and investment behavioursThis study develops a model for understanding the key contextual factors that will foster public trust in cryptocurrency and ultimately investment in it. Specifically, this study tests whether the regulatory factor of grievance redressal mechanism, the social factor of (mass)media influence and psychological factor of perceived integrity of crypto-asset merchants are essential to building public trust in cryptocurrencies and, in turn, willingness to invest. Primary data were collected to test the model using advanced regression analytics. We find that all the identified factors are positively associated with public trust that, in turn, positively predicts cryptocurrency investment intentions. Additional analysis reveals that trust plays an important mediating role. The originality and value of study lies in empirically providing evidence on the contextual and proximate antecedents of trust-building in cryptocurrency, which assists this digital currency ecosystem in designing strategies and interventions that should promote and sustain public interest and trust in the digital asset.
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An elite perspective on interviewing entrepreneurs – methodological considerations for the entrepreneurship fieldPurpose: Elite interviewing is a well-established area of interview research methods. Nevertheless, the actual casting of an “elite” has been generally conducted in a prima facie or broad manner. A consideration of entrepreneurs and owner-managers as “elites” has been less profiled and received less attention, therefore the paper views the entrepreneurs and owner-managers as constituting a form of “local elite” within given and varying sectorial, regional and community boundaries. The authors argue that a consideration of entrepreneurs as “local elites” and transferring knowledge from an elite interviewing perspective may strongly support scholarly research in the entrepreneurship field. Design/methodology/approach: The study conducts a comprehensive narrative literature review of elite interviewing literature and transfers key methodological insights to the entrepreneurship field. The methodological contribution based on literature is complemented by experiences and observations from an extensive inductive interview study with over 30 entrepreneurs of German manufacturing Small and Medium-sized Entities (SMEs) and are used to reflect on, and refine, interview research approaches with entrepreneurs. Findings: The reflections and discussions in this paper provide valuable insights for other researchers conducting research in entrepreneurship domains regarding the power dynamics of negotiating access, procedural issues of interviews and thereby enhancing the quality of data. Originality/value: The contribution to knowledge is mainly of a methodological nature. While the paper takes a novel act of recasting elite interviewing in the SME and entrepreneurship context, the paper methodologically contributes to the entrepreneurship and elite interview literature thereby facilitating higher quality interviews.
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Climate change readiness in Arab universities: Policy paths for the future of climate actionClimate change is a growing global crisis with far-reaching implications for environmental, economic, social, and public health stability. The Arab region, comprising 22 countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), faces unique challenges due to its arid climate, limited freshwater resources, and reliance on climate-sensitive sectors such as agriculture and energy. Rising temperatures, intensified heatwaves, and increasing water scarcity have already begun to disrupt ecosystems, exacerbate food insecurity, and challenge the region’s socio-economic development. Given the region’s projected population growth and the expected decline in agricultural productivity, it is crucial to identify sustainable pathways to address these interconnected crises. Universities, as key institutions of knowledge, research, and societal engagement, hold significant potential in tackling climate change and driving adaptation and mitigation strategies. This paper examines how Arab universities can contribute more effectively to climate action, focusing on their roles in research, curriculum development, sustainable campus operations, and community outreach. Through a combination of PEST (Political, Economic, Social, and Technological) analysis, expert surveys, and Policy Pathways Mapping, the study assesses the factors influencing the ability of Arab universities to engage in climate change initiatives. It identifies key barriers, including inadequate funding, fragmented research efforts, and weak policy integration, as well as opportunities for improving institutional responses to climate challenges. The paper proposes strategic policy pathways that emphasize the importance of regional collaboration, sustainable financing, and the integration of climate change into educational frameworks. It further outlines actionable recommendations for enhancing universities' roles in climate change mitigation and adaptation, such as fostering interdisciplinary research, expanding climate literacy, adopting green campus practices, and strengthening community engagement. By implementing these policy pathways, Arab universities can become critical drivers of change in the region’s climate response efforts, advancing both national and global climate goals. The paper concludes with a call for a comprehensive, coordinated approach to align higher education institutions with climate action frameworks and policies, ensuring that universities fulfill their potential as leaders in climate resilience and sustainability.
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Charitable organisations and ambidexterity: implications for charity sector leadersPurpose: This paper is an outcome of professional doctoral research into charitable organisations and ambidexterity. The study aims to offer a new contribution to the organisational literature on charity and organisational ambidexterity through determining key components of organisational ambidextrous design in the delivery of social mission. Design/methodology/approach: The research was conducted using a mono method, in the form of 14 semi-structured interviews with executive members of UK-based charities in the disability, health or social care arena. Analysis took place through a reflexive thematic analysis process. Findings: Findings culminated in eight key components for the application of organisational ambidexterity in charity. Research limitations/implications: The research advances prior debates, relating to charities and organisational ambidexterity respectively, and develops previous associated research on organisational ambidexterity and public enterprise. In doing so, it proposes a new framework model of eight components for ambidextrous working in charity. Findings are based on a small purposive research sample and are embryonic, meaning that there is opportunity for this field of study to evolve and mature over time. Practical implications: The paper points to clear evidence of organisational ambidexterity represented in multi-dimensional structural models, culture, systems and strategy, which has resulted in a model of components for ambidextrous working relevant to the charity sector. Social implications: Research within this paper provides awareness and new knowledge for charity sector leaders and managers in the achievement of social mission. Originality/value: To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper represents the first scholarly research conducted into organisational ambidexterity applied to private charities in the UK.
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A review of the basic elements, organizational and theoretical foundations of work-based learning (WBL) in the higher educationThe aim of the study is to review basic elements, organizational and theoretical foundations of work-based learning (WBL) in the higher education, based mostly on the experience of higher education institutions in the United Kingdom. Methodology and research methods. The methods of system and comparative analysis, synthesis and generalization are used. Results . This review article summarizes briefly: the social attributes of students who prefer to complete WBL programs; relevant requirements of employers to the quality of training; a new university policy on the management of training, and its contribution to the creation of innovative educational environment at workplaces; overcoming challenges when establishing long-term partnerships between universities and enterprises; organizational and theoretical foundations of the WBL study programs. A number of critical remarks on WBL study programs are being analyzed. Authors make a point about the importance of a transdisciplinary shell framework to facilitate learning driven by the interests of the learner(s). When carrying out the review, authors refer also to the experience of other English-speaking countries (Australia and the USA), which also successfully develop the concept under consideration. Scientific novelty . For the first time an analytical review of basic elements, organizational and theoretical foundations of work-based learning (WBL) in the higher education, which is widespread in English-speaking countries over the last 25 years, is presented in the Russian scientific literature in education. Practical significance. The materials provided in the article can be useful to managers and teachers of higher education institutions, methodologists of higher and vocational education providers and departments of professional development of High-Tech enterprises.
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Reducing quiet quitting in the contemporary workplace: Four focus areasPurpose: This viewpoint paper aims to provide four recommendations to improve belonging and reduce quiet quitting in the contemporary workplace. Design/methodology/approach: This paper synthesises recent academic and contextual literature regarding remote teams, organisational belonging and quiet quitting coupled with the authors’ practical experience as leaders within a multinational organisation and in a university setting. Findings: Four focus areas related to leaders as the lynchpin to improved socialisation, connection and belonging in the workplace and therefore reduced quiet quitting. Originality/value: In the continued contemporary working landscape of remote working, wider workforce demographics and declining organisational engagement, this paper contributes to literature by presenting key focus areas coupled with four practical recommendations for human resource professionals, leaders and organisations to focus on to reduce the risk of quiet quitting.
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Exploring future scenarios for strengthening science, technology, and innovation collaboration between Egypt and BRICS countriesIn this study, the potential enhancement of science, technology, and innovation (STI) collaboration between Egypt and the BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) and new members (Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE) is analyzed by scenario analysis until 2040. It highlights the significance of Egypt's recent BRICS membership in 2024 and its alignment with the country’s Vision 2030. The study identifies key drivers for STI collaboration, including government policies, economic and investment factors, technological capacity, and the private sector’s role. The paper employs a methodology combining literature reviews, expert inputs, and scenario writing to develop three future scenarios: strategic partnership (“Green Zone”), full integration (“BRICS Harmony”), and limited engagement (“Narrow Path”). These scenarios reflect varying degrees of cooperation, driven by economic, political, and technological factors. These scenarios envision varying degrees of cooperation based on economic, political, and technological factors, with a focus on creating a sustainable, innovation-driven economy in Egypt. The paper emphasizes the importance of building robust international partnerships, investing in technology, and developing research infrastructure to enable Egypt to maximize the benefits of its BRICS membership and strengthen its role in the global digital economy. Policy recommendations are offered to ensure long-term success, including enhancing public-private partnerships, fostering innovation, and aligning national policies with BRICS standards.
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Nigeria's transition to a circular economy: challenges, opportunities and future perspectivesThe concept of a circular economy (CE) is a sustainable development strategy aimed at minimising waste and maximising resource efficiency. This paper explores the transition towards a circular economy in Nigeria, providing an overview of the challenges, opportunities, and future perspectives. Nigeria is rich in natural resources and has significant economic potential. However, the country faces severe environmental, economic, and social challenges that could be met with a circular economy. Although Nigeria has abundant natural resources and great economic potential, it faces many significant environmental, economic, and social challenges that must be addressed to move to a circular economy as a viable solution. The methods used in research are based on a mixed-methods research approach; the study synthesises findings from a comprehensive literature review, case studies of Nigerian businesses adopting CE practices, and insights from a SWOT analysis conducted in consultation with experts. The conclusions of the SWOT analysis, enriched by discussions with experts, form the basis for a set of targeted recommendations. These recommendations are aimed at policymakers, business leaders, and practitioners, outlining strategic actions to overcome the identified barriers and harness the opportunities inherent in a circular economy. This paper contributes to the scholarly discourse on sustainability and serves as a practical guide for other developing countries navigating the transition to a circular economy. It underscores the urgency and feasibility of adopting circular economy principles in Nigeria, highlighting the path towards a more sustainable, efficient, and economically robust future. In the study, prospects for Nigeria to benefit from include increased resource efficiency, job creation, economic diversification, and environmental sustainability if the circular economy approach were applied.
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The circular blue economy in Egypt: opportunities for regional cooperation and integration with Mediterranean countries for sustainable developmentThis study examines the possibility of the Circular Blue Economy in Egypt to support sustainable development and the usage of its renewable resources, focusing on possibilities for regional collaboration, particularly in the Mediterranean region. The study's methodology was an analysis of missing policies, identifying key actors, and an expert survey to identify future collaborations and opportunities, which included 20 experts from diverse sectors. Current policies in Egypt (e.g., Egypt Vision 2030) and the Mediterranean region were analyzed against the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 14) and regional initiatives such as BLUEMED and SwitchMed, highlighting shortcomings in cooperation, investment, and environmental measures. The main parties, including the Egyptian government, the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM), the private sector, and local communities, were grouped according to their level of interest and influence. Findings indicate that Egypt's strategic location and extensive coastline are suited to drive regional efforts in maritime tourism, aquaculture, and maritime transport. Yet, problems, including marine litter and underfunding, continue. Experts also support the creation of regional cooperation platforms and joint pollution monitoring systems. The paper concludes with policy recommendations to integrate circular economy concepts into government strategies, strengthen collaboration across the region, and establish a collaborative and innovation-based ocean governance model. The paper presents new ideas to support regional integration and suggests additional studies on sustainable financing mechanisms.
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Purification of olive mill waste: a circular economy model for the Mediterranean regionWhen olive mill wastewater is given directly to nature without being treated, natural waters become coloured, aquatic life is adversely affected, surface and underground waters are polluted, bad odours occur, and soil quality deteriorates. For these reasons, waste water is not allowed to be poured into soil and water without being discharged. This problem has become a problem that needs to be solved for the Mediterranean countries. With this study, acid cracking and chemical treatability studies achieved the conversion of the physicochemical pretreatment process of olive black water to an automation system. With the applied processes, removal efficiencies of 85% for Chemical Oxygen Demand, 99% for suspended solids, 97% for oil grease and 92% for phenol were obtained. Since the mixing processes of the tanks in the chemical additions are long, the heating chamber in the acid cracking process is designed larger than the tanks. Thus, when there is a black water density in the system, the heating tank in this system can be used as a heating and resting tank in sudden densities in this system. This waste separation process includes producing raw materials, protecting natural resources, and increasing sustainability. In particular, separating the phenol material and making it usable have been essential gains.
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Policy options in accelerating circular economy adoption in the Gulf countriesThe transition to a circular economy is a pivotal step for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, given the growing environmental challenges, scarce resources, and the urgent need to diversify economies away from hydrocarbon dependence. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of policies to accelerate the adoption of the circular economy in the Gulf countries based on a multi-dimensional analytical framework encompassing Social, Technological, Economic, Environmental, and Political (STEEP) aspects. Drawing on consultations with regional experts and specialized researchers, numerous case studies, and global best practices. The study reviews a set of proposed policies to accelerate investment in the circular economy in the Gulf countries. These include various tools such as investment in clean technology, strong political support, and the establishment of circular funds. It also reviews the challenges and outcomes of recycling, stimulates legislation, and reduces traditional consumption patterns. The study also presents a "causal loop diagram" (CLD) highlighting the dynamic interactions and feedback influencing the transition to a circular economy. The findings emphasize the importance of aligning regulatory policies, providing financial incentives, developing circular infrastructure, and enhancing community awareness. The study concludes by proposing six actionable policy options constituting a roadmap tailored specifically to the Gulf context, contributing to integrating circular economy principles into national development strategies. It contributes to the sustainable development literature by proposing realistic and effective policies that enable Gulf countries to lead in circular innovation and low-carbon growth. It further contributes to the growing discourse on sustainable development by offering actionable, context-sensitive policy recommendations for fostering a resilient and circular Gulf economy.
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Investigation of corporate sustainability performance data and developing an innovation-oriented novel analysis method with multi-criteria decision making approachThis study addresses the growing importance of integrating innovation into corporate sustainability strategies by examining the financial and environmental performance of ten firms listed on the Borsa Istanbul Sustainability Index over a five-year period. The main objective is to develop and test a novel, data-driven analytical framework that reduces reliance on subjective expert judgments while providing actionable insights for sustainability-oriented decision-making. Within this framework, the entropy method from the Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) approach is first applied to calculate the objective weights of sustainability criteria, ensuring that the analysis is grounded in real performance data. Building on these weights, an innovative reverse Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) model, implemented through a custom artificial neural network-based software, is introduced to estimate direct influence matrices and reveal the causal relationships among criteria. This methodological advance makes it possible to explore how environmental and financial factors interact with R&D expenditures and to simulate their systemic interdependencies. The findings demonstrate that R&D serves as a central driver of both environmental and financial sustainability, highlighting its dual role in fostering corporate innovation and long-term resilience. By positioning R&D as both an enabler and outcome of sustainability dynamics, the proposed framework contributes a novel tool for aligning innovation with strategic sustainability goals, offering broader implications for corporate managers, policymakers, and researchers.
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The impact of neoliberalist government reform and regulatory oversight on private training providers in the UK technical education sectorPurpose: Adopting the lens of ambidexterity, this paper examines decision-making within private technical education providers as they attempt to meet workforce and UK government training demands against a backdrop of unprecedented pace of global change in technology. Design/methodology/approach: Qualitative data, drawn from semi-structured interviews of participants within a private training provider, was analysed thematically to investigate common patterns, clarify understanding and identify development areas to inform government bodies and private provider apprenticeship delivery practices. Findings: The findings reveal the extent to which neoliberalism is potentially undermining technical education reform and increasing regulation whilst decreasing trust and reducing authentic partnerships between key stakeholders, together negatively impacting ambidextrous decision-making. Research limitations/implications: This study is limited by the use of a monolingual, monocultural sample; therefore, a broader cross-section of respondents from a wider range, size and geographical location of training providers may result in a deeper understanding of the varying tensions and challenges associated with technical education reform. Practical implications: This work seeks to inform policymakers of the wider consequences of neoliberalism and provide recommendations for government bodies and technical training providers to work collaboratively in seeking solutions to the barriers in delivering vocational training fit for a future-proof workforce. Originality/value: This paper builds on a limited body of research examining the dual impact of once in a lifetime technological challenges and the consequence of neoliberalism upon ambidextrous decision-making within private providers of post-16 technical education.
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Adapting scenario planning to create an expectation for surprises: Going beyond probability and plausibility in risk assessmentThe need for risk assessments to take full account of uncertainty by going beyond probability and creating an expectation for surprises has recently been highlighted in this journal. This paper sets out an adaptation to the Intuitive Logics (IL) scenario-planning method that assists risk assessors to achieve this aim. We demonstrate the effectiveness of this adaptation through a controlled experiment. The controlled experiment took the form of a simulated IL scenario-planning exercise in which individuals assigned values representative of extreme outcomes to sets of simple and more complex clusters of driving forces under three experimental conditions representing alternative uncertainty expressions (‘probable’, ‘plausible’, and ‘surprising’). The values assigned in the ‘probable’ and ‘plausible’ conditions were not significantly different from each other. However, the ‘surprising’ condition resulted in the assignment of more extreme values than either of the other two conditions. The complexity of a set of clustered driving had no effect. A follow-up analysis showed that participants interpreted the words ‘probable’ and ‘plausible’ similarly. This is problematic for scenario methods like IL, which are claimed to stretch consideration of the future’s potential extremity beyond what it would be using probability by instead employing plausibility. Yet, if participants interpret ‘probable’ and ‘plausible’ similarly, then using plausibility instead of probability will not stretch their thinking as desired. By adapting IL in the simple way this paper outlines, scenario planning can assist risk assessors to go beyond both probability and plausibility, thereby taking fuller account of uncertainty and improving anticipation of surprises.
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The value of experiments in futures and foresight science as illustrated by the case of scenario planningAn already pressing need to evidence the effectiveness of futures and foresight tools has been further amplified by the coronavirus pandemic, which highlighted more mainstream tools' difficulty with uncertainty. In light of this, the recent discussion in this journal on providing futures and foresight science with a stronger scientific basis is welcome. In this discussion critical realism has been proffered as a useful philosophical foundation and experiments a useful method for improving this field's scientific basis. Yet, experiments seek to isolate specific causal effects through closure (i.e., by controlling for all extraneous factors) and this may cause it to jar with critical realism's emphasis on uncertainty and openness. We therefore extend the recent discussion on improving the scientific basis of futures and foresight science by doing three things. First, we elaborate on critical realism and why the experimental method may jar with it. Second, we explain why the distinction between a conceptual and a direct replication can help overcome this jarring, meaning experiments can still be a valuable research tool for a futures and foresight science underpinned by critical realism. Third, we consider the appropriate unit of analysis for experiments on futures and foresight tools. In so doing, we situate the recent discussion on improving the scientific basis of futures and foresight science within the much longer running one on improving the scientific basis of business, management and strategy research more broadly. We use the case of scenario planning to illustrate our argument in relation to futures and foresight science.
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The impact of 16–18 performance measures in a Sixth-form college: a teacher’s perspective on interpersonal relationships and teacher professional identityThis research explores the impact of 16–18 Performance Measures on interpersonal relationships and teacher professional identity (TPI) within a sixth-form college. TPI is a dynamic construct shaped by individual experiences and social interactions. Interpersonal relationships, such as those with colleagues and management, play a crucial role in shaping TPI and influencing teacher retention. However, the increasing pressure of performance measures can negatively impact these relationships and, subsequently, TPI. This qualitative case study looks to explore the experiences of teachers working in a Sixth-Form college. Thematic analysis of semi-structured interview transcripts was used to identify key themes related to interpersonal relationships, performance measures, and TPI. The findings suggest that 16–18 Performance Measures can exacerbate tensions within the workplace, leading to strained relationships with management and a decline in teacher morale. These pressures can also erode TPI by limiting autonomy, creativity, and a sense of professional purpose. The study concludes by discussing the implications of these findings for educational policy and practice, highlighting the need for a more supportive and less target-driven approach to education.
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Assessment of the impact of the revised National E-Waste Framework on the informal E-Waste sector of NigeriaE-Waste management in Nigeria remains predominantly informal, with unlicensed collectors focusing on extracting valuable materials, primarily for export. Despite policy interventions, including the revised 2022 E-Waste framework and the Global Environment Facility (GEF) project, which introduced collection centers in Lagos and bolstered Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), progress has been uneven. This comparative longitudinal study examined informal E-Waste processing practices over a six-year period (2017–2023) to evaluate the impact of these initiatives. Using a mixed-methods approach, including content analysis and field interviews with informal collectors, government officials, and NGOs, our findings reveal that profit is the primary motivator for informal collectors, while E-Waste fractions that are not considered profitable are often discarded in environmentally harmful ways. The findings indicate persistent noncompliance with regulations and stagnant or declining income levels for informal collectors. The revised 2022 regulation resulted in a significant increase in registrations, with EPRON recording its highest number of producers, with 39 in total, including 25.6% renewals and 74.4% new registrations. Although the revised framework and EPR efforts have achieved limited success, critical gaps in implementation and outreach remain, with minimal improvements in collectors’ awareness of health and environmental risks. This study underscores the need for targeted training and financial incentives to redirect E-Waste flows toward formal channels, thereby more effectively safeguarding the environment and wellbeing.
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The legal and ethical considerations in cross-border telesurgical proceduresTelesurgery, or remote surgery, represents a transformative fusion of medicine and technology, enabling surgeons to perform procedures on patients located miles away using robotic systems and advanced telecommunications. However, its widespread adoption remains limited, with fewer than 50 documented fully remote telesurgical procedures in the past two decades. While robotic-assisted surgery is increasingly common - accounting for over 1.2 million procedures in 2019 - true cross-border telesurgery is rare due to technological, legal, and ethical barriers. The lack of a unified regulatory framework presents jurisdiction, licensing, liability, and data security challenges, particularly when procedures span international borders. The absence of standardized legal mechanisms creates uncertainty, especially in surgical complications or malpractice claims. A global regulatory framework should address these challenges, incorporating mutual recognition of medical licenses, standardized liability agreements, and uniform data protection protocols aligned with General Data Protection Regulation and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. Additionally, real-time 5G-enabled monitoring systems could mitigate latency issues, reducing the risk of surgical errors due to connectivity disruptions. Ethically, telesurgery raises concerns regarding informed consent, equitable access, and accountability. Language barriers, differing cultural attitudes toward robotic surgery, and disparities in healthcare infrastructure complicate ethical oversight. Establishing an international telesurgical ethics board could ensure adherence to standardized consent procedures and promote equitable access through global partnerships. Investment in telesurgical training programs and AI-driven risk mitigation strategies could enhance patient safety. While technological advancements will continue to drive telesurgery's growth, addressing these legal and ethical considerations through harmonized global regulations and strategic policy interventions is crucial for sustainable and equitable integration into modern healthcare.
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The role of Artificial Intelligence in political marketingThis chapter investigates the increasing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in contemporary political marketing.
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Strategic National Human Resource Development: The case of the Duqm Special Economic Zone in OmanResearch is increasingly acknowledging the pivotal role of national human resource development (NHRD) in economic development. There is a growing call to conduct research in country-specific contexts to further explore this concept and the factors that influence its outcomes. The concept differs from one country to another; therefore, many human resource development (HRD) studies focus on one country. However, few have focused on the Middle East region, and there has been even less research on Oman. The aim here is to fill this research gap by evaluating information gathered from across the Duqm Special Economic Zone (DSEZ) in Oman and analyze Oman’s HRD practices. Specifically, the intent is to identify the gap in skillsets in Oman and to develop an NHRD model that is appropriate for the country’s economic requirements for national skills development.
