Dr. Skylar Wan

Profile

I am a Lecturer (Assistant Professor) in International Business. My research examines the microfoundations of international business, with a focus on how boards of directors and executive leaders shape organisational outcomes. My work uses big data analytics and machine learning to analyse digital traces of leadership behaviour at scale, including executive social media engagement, board media coverage, and stakeholder communications. Through extensive collaboration with healthcare and biotechnology MNEs, I ground this research in real-world strategic challenges.

Before joining Leeds, I was a Visiting Researcher at the Mays Business School, Texas A&M University. I hold a PhD in Strategic Leadership and Corporate Governance from TU Dortmund University.

My research has been published in leading journals including the Journal of Management Studies (FT 50 journal) and high-impact psychology and psychiatry journals.

I am leading a funded international project on the responsible use of AI, supported by the Worldwide Universities Network, with co-authors from the University of Cambridge, University of Alberta, University of Technology Sydney, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Renmin University of China, University of Cape Town, University of Ghana, and Shenzhen University.

Responsibilities

• Advisory Board Member, UKRI and N8 Digital Research Infrastructure (DRI) Conference
• Academic Lead for AI, ABCP Youth Committee

Research interests

Corporate governance; big data analytics; global healthcare industry

Qualifications

• Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA)

Professional memberships

• Academy of International Business
• European International Business Academy
• Strategic Management Society
• Academy of Management

Student education

I teach at both undergraduate and postgraduate level in the areas of international business and strategy. My teaching covers topics including small business internationalisation and international strategic management.

My teaching approach emphasises the integration of theory and practice. I regularly invite senior practitioners to share their experiences with students. Recent guest speakers have included executives from companies such as Waitrose and NatWest Investment Banking, technology leaders from Scaled Insights and Hymiao Biotech, and entrepreneurs from sectors including renewable energy, smart robotics, and AI.