Our people

The world is changing and so must business.

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Dean of the Business School

Professor Susan Watson believes that through research, collaboration, and innovation with business leaders, we have the potential to solve societal challenges and drive positive change for the future.

Before joining the University of Auckland, Susan worked as a staff solicitor and associate in two city law firms. In 2020, she was elected president of the Society of Corporate Law Academics (SCoLa), the first President for the Association elected from outside Australia where it is primarily based.

At the heart of Susan’s research is a desire to understand how the corporate form – how it developed, why it is so successful, and the economic and societal impact of corporations. She believes that economic growth and profit must be rebalanced so that we prioritise the wellbeing of our people and planet.

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Dr Drew Franklin, Associate Dean External Engagement

Drew Franklin is a Senior Lecturer in Marketing at the University of Auckland Business School and also serves as the Business School’s Associate Dean of External Engagement. His research focuses on two main areas: Marketing relationship dynamics, with a specific emphasis on trust, and the role of emergent technologies in business and marketing practice.

Drew brings a wealth of practical experience to his academic role, having enjoyed a 12-year career in global business and marketing prior to his academic pursuits. His industry experience spans sales, marketing, and business development across North American, Western European, and developed Asian markets. Drew is committed to actively engaging with industry and external stakeholders, viewing these interactions as crucial for identifying how academic institutions can best contribute to informing business policy and practice. This approach allows him to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world application in the field of marketing.

Email: drew.franklin@auckland.ac.nz

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External Engagement Manager

Ella Zhang joined the Business School in September 2022. She manages stakeholder relationships with government agencies, businesses, iwi and industry bodies. Ella has more than 12 years’ experience in international markets, development and stakeholder relationships from both public and private sectors.

Ella has an in-depth understanding of the challenges and opportunities SMEs and regions are facing and is keen to share the University of Auckland Business School’s world-leading research expertise and knowledge with Aotearoa New Zealand businesses and beyond.

Contact
Email: ella.zhang@auckland.ac.nz
Mobile: 021 027 58666