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Future organisations

We challenge theory and practice to inform the reshaping of business and co-produce solutions that enable organisations to navigate complex problems linked to technological change, demographic shifts, the climate emergency and transient populations.

This involves challenging both theory and practice to inform organisational review and adaptation with action-oriented research programmes that develop solutions to complex problems, including:

  • digitisation and technological change
  • mental health and wellbeing at work
  • ethical behaviour and consumption practices
  • responsible leadership
  • forecasting for social good
  • future-proofing, resilience and decision-making for future generations
  • skills for the future.

Tackling food poverty

Dr Yingli Wang has deployed her research expertise in e-logistics, technological innovation and inclusion in digital supply chains, to generate impact in her local community. As an active member of the South Wales Food Poverty Alliance, her e-logistics expertise resulted in a strategic report, Call to Action on Food Poverty in South Wales.

Since then, Dr Wang has teamed up with Food Cardiff to develop the first social enterprise to address food poverty in Cardiff. Your Local Pantry Community Shop at the Dusty Forge enables people in food poverty to access healthy and affordable fresh food, eliminating the social stigma of give-away food and providing a financially sustainable way of bringing fresh produce to local communities.

Supporting entrepreneurs and small business organisations

We were awarded an ‘exemplar’ for our research activity in this area during the re-accreditation process for the Association of Business Schools Small Business Charter. This reflects our efforts to support smaller organisations, including entrepreneurs, SMEs and social enterprises, to face their future challenges, and collaborate to enhance organisational capacity necessary to meet societal and economic demands.

This commitment extends to our learning and teaching and engagement activity. Field trip and guest speaker opportunities ensure our students are able to envisage and aspire to different and innovative business models like those employed at Forest Green Rovers Football club – ‘the greenest football club in the world’.

Our monthly Breakfast Briefing series also provides opportunities to develop and sustain collaborations with the small business community, while Directors of Business in the Community, the Institute of Directors and the Wales Cooperative Society each contribute to our strategic priorities as members of our International Advisory Board.

Making a difference through our research

Our research impacts on people and policy, making a difference to our economy, to society and our environment.

A future-focused pro bono research project by Professor Calvin Jones and Future Generations Commissioner for Wales Sophie Howe produced a series of actions public organisations must take to be cognisant of future skills needs.

Collaborative research from Professor Calvin Jones and the Institute of Welsh Affairs found moving to 100% renewables in Wales can increase energy security, reduce fuel poverty and tackle climate change.

Related people

Professor James Downe

Professor James Downe

Professor of Public Policy and Management, Director of Research, Wales Centre for Public Policy

Email
downej@cardiff.ac.uk
Telephone
+44 (0)29 2087 5298
Professor Calvin Jones

Professor Calvin Jones

Professor of Economics

Email
jonesc24@cardiff.ac.uk
Telephone
+44 (0)29 2087 5470
Professor Yingli Wang

Professor Yingli Wang

Professor in Logistics and Operations Management, Deputy Head of Section - Research, Impact and Innovation

Email
wangy14@cardiff.ac.uk
Telephone
+44 (0)29 2087 5066
Professor Andrew Henley

Professor Andrew Henley

Professor of Entrepreneurship and Economics, Director of Research Engagement and Impact

Email
henleya@cardiff.ac.uk
Telephone
+44 (0)29 2087 5392
Dr Andrew Treharne-Davies

Dr Andrew Treharne-Davies

Research Centre Manager (CAMSAC and the PARC Institute)
Entrepreneurship and Innovation Services Manager

Email
daviesat4@cardiff.ac.uk
Telephone
+44 (0)29 2087 9334
Dr Anthony Samuel

Dr Anthony Samuel

Reader in Marketing and Strategy

Email
samuela3@cardiff.ac.uk
Telephone
+44 (0)29 20874410