Rise with AI: Turning SMEs into Market Pioneers

This seminar will examine how artificial intelligence enables small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to compete and thrive within today’s digital landscape. By adopting accessible AI tools, SMEs can optimise operations, enhance customer engagement, and harness data-driven insights to drive strategic growth. The session will cover essential strategies and considerations for SMEs aiming to use AI effectively, showing how these technologies can position them as agile leaders in their fields. The discussion will explore current research, practical applications, and the broader implications of AI-driven transformation for the SME sector.

Dr Nisreen Ameen is an international expert, award-winning academic in Digital Marketing, and Director of the Digital Organisation and Society (DOS) research centre at Royal Holloway, University of London. Her ground breaking research is shaping our understanding of how managers interact with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other cutting-edge technologies. Dr Ameen’s research has been instrumental in uncovering the impacts of AI on both individuals and businesses, particularly in entrepreneurship and inclusive AI adoption, leading to improved AI literacy, enhanced AI skills training, and the development of responsible AI frameworks that benefit businesses, policymakers, and underrepresented communities. Throughout her projects, Dr.Ameen has worked very closely with senior management of companies, ensuring alignment between academic insights and business needs.

She has published over 40 papers in high-ranking journals, including numerous contributions to ABS 4* and 3* journals, and has guest-edited over 10 special issues, showcasing her expertise and thought leadership in the field. Dr Ameen has secured significant funding, including prestigious grants from the British Academy, Innovate UK, and GCRF, leading to initiatives that have improved digital inclusion, enhanced AI skills development, and supported SMEs in leveraging AI for growth. Recognised as one of the Top 100 Marketing Influencers in the UK, she has held key leadership roles such as Vice President of UKAIS, chair of a BAM Special Interest Group (SIG), and Ambassador for Research at the Institute of Directors. Additionally, she advises policymakers, contributing her expertise to shape policies on AI adoption. With a strong international profile, she has delivered keynote speeches at prestigious conferences internationally, while her research and teaching continue to inspire and mentor the next generation of scholars and industry leaders.

The seminar will be held on 19th November 2024, 1:00pm, in room G10 of the Henley Business School building, Whiteknights campus. Please note, lunch will be provided at 1:00 pm for all those attending in-person. For those unable to attend in person there is also the option to dial in remotely via Microsoft Teams. If you are interested in joining, please contact Aleena Raja on aleena.raja@henley.ac.uk

The research seminars are co-ordinated by Dr Fabio Goncalves de Oliveira and Dr Matteo Borghi.