THE Henley Business School has appointed a new Dean.
Professor Elena Beleska-Spasova has taken up the role with immediate effect – she has been acting dean for the past eight months following the retirement of Professor John Board.
She will lead work to develop and grow the Business School, in support of the University’s Strategic Plan.
The role will also see her lead Henley’s contribution to the University’s work to tackle current external financial pressures.
Professor Robert Van De Noort, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Reading, welcomed the permanent appointment.
“I look forward to working closely with her as part of the University leadership team in the years to come,” he said.
“Elena’s experience and energy will be invaluable as we work together on the important programme to increase both the University’s and Henley Business School’s resilience in the face of some pressing challenges.
“Her appointment is a positive step towards delivering potential growth opportunities.”
And the new dean said her role was a huge honour and sees her build on 14 years of experience.
“I have first-hand experience of all that Henley has to offer, including our world-class research, our innovative teaching and our forward-thinking employees,” Prof Beleska-Spasova said.
“The role is not without its challenges, particularly in these difficult and uncertain economic times. My focus will be to ensure that we continue to build a sustainable and resilient institution that is able to thrive and grow, delivering smart thinking and innovation that makes a real difference to students and businesses alike.
“I’m really excited about the future of Henley Business School.”
Professor Beleska-Spasova joined the University in 2009 as a lecturer in International Business, becoming a professor in 2019.
In 2021, she took on the role of Pro-Dean Education and Innovation where she worked alongside the Dean as one of the key contributors to the overall strategic direction and management of Henley.
Prior to joining Henley, Professor Beleska-Spasova gained extensive experience in the business sector, working in several large international organisations across Europe and North America, including PwC in Canada.
During her academic career, her research has explored strategic issues and challenges faced by organisations on an international scale, and the drivers of international competitiveness and performance with a particular focus on exports and SMEs.
