The University of Guelph is pleased to name Dr. Sara Mann as dean of the Gordon S. Lang School of Business and Economics.
Mann, professor of organizational behaviour and strategic human resource management, previously served as interim dean, during which time her deep commitment to Indigenization, equity, diversity and inclusion led to the creation of a University-wide EDI Advisory Board.
Mann holds a PhD in management from the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto. Her expertise includes leadership, performance management, selection and compensation.
“It is a tremendous honour to continue to serve as Dean for Lang,” Mann says. “Business as a force for good is in our DNA and our students gain a unique understanding of how responsible and sustainable business practices can Improve Life here in Guelph and around the world.
“I look forward to advancing our mission and positioning Lang on the global stage,” she added.
As an administrator, Mann prioritized consultation with internal, external and community partners to launch Lang’s new five-year Strategic Plan. The five pillars of the plan focus on advancing Lang’s reputation for excellence and leadership in sustainability, creating leaders for an inclusive future, research excellence, educational innovation and exceptional student experience and fostering strong partnerships and career development.
Mann’s research has been published in more than 20 peer-reviewed journals and several book chapters. In her role, she consults with public and private sector organizations, delivers leadership training in the agri-food sector and disseminates applied research to industry and other stakeholders and policymakers.
“As dean, Dr. Mann will continue to build on Lang’s commitment to global leadership through both research and experiential learning opportunities for our students, while also strengthening our relationships with our valued Lang alumni, donors and community partners who play a pivotal role in enabling the success of our students,” says Dr. Gwen Chapman, provost and vice-president (academic).
Lang’s mission built on concept of ‘business as a force for good’
The Gordon S. Lang School of Business and Economics is recognized globally for its commitment to developing future leaders for a sustainable and equitable world. Lang is proud to be an Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB) accredited institution, reflective of its high standards and excellence across all initiatives.
Reflecting U of G’s commitment to Improve Life, Lang’s mission is built on the concept of “business as a force for good” aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Through this mission, Lang inspires purpose in its promotion of responsible and sustainable businesses and communities through interdisciplinary learning, problem-solving and critical thinking.
Lang offers a range of disciplines in business and economics across undergraduate, graduate and professional programs. It is home to Business Career Development Centre, the Institute for Sustainable Commerce at Guelph, the International Institute for Sport Business and Leadership, the John F. Wood Centre for Business and Student Enterprise and the Marketing Analytics Centre.
Dr. Mann will commence a five-year appointment on Feb. 12.