Dr Stefan Zagelmeyer

Prof

    Accepting PhD Students

    Personal profile

    Biography

    Dr Stefan Zagelmeyer is Reader in Comparative and International Business at Alliance Manchester Business School (AMBS), University of Manchester, UK. He has spent over half of his life in higher education and research, working across 16 countries on five continents. His academic journey includes appointments at renowned institutions such as the Manchester School of Management (UK), Université Paris II Panthéon-Assas (France), the University of Twente (Netherlands), and the University of Stellenbosch (South Africa).

    At AMBS, Dr Zagelmeyer currently holds several leadership roles. He serves as Programme Director for the MSc International Business and Management (MSc IBM), the Master of Research (MRes), and the Research Training Programme for doctoral students. His teaching portfolio spans MBA programmes, corporate training, and executive education.

    Before transitioning fully into the field of international business, Dr Zagelmeyer held professorial positions in organisational behaviour, human resource management, and economics at universities of applied sciences in Germany. In 2014, he was awarded the lifelong title of Professor by the state government of North Rhine-Westphalia (Germany).

    His research experience includes work at the Max Planck Institute for the Study of Societies and the German Economic Institute. As a policy and research consultant, he has contributed to international organisations such as the European Foundation for the Improvement of Living and Working Conditions (Dublin), the European Commission (Brussels), the International Labour Organization (Geneva), and the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (Geneva).

    Dr Zagelmeyer holds an MSc-equivalent degree in Economics from the University of Cologne (Germany), an MSc Econ in Industrial Relations and Personnel Management from the London School of Economics (UK), and a PhD (Dr. rer. pol.) in Economics from the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (Germany).

    Research interests

    • International business strategy
    • Comparative institutional analysis
    • Strategic human resource management 
    • International and comparative HRM
    • Business and human rights 

    Memberships of committees and professional bodies

    • Academy of Management (AOM)
    • Academy of International Business (AIB)
    • British Academy of Management (BAM)
    • British Universities Industrial Relations Association (BUIRA)
    • European International Business Academy (EIBA)
    • International Labour and Employment Relations Association (ILERA)
    • Verein für Socialpolitik

    Supervision information

    2027 (expected) “Exploring Workplace Flourishing among Self-Initiated Expatriates in Malaysia” (PhD thesis) – Author: Hak Liong Chan (Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia) – Supervisors: Dr Jenny Rodrigues, Dr Stefan Zagelmeyer

    2026 (expected) “Strategic Partnerships and the Sustainable Development Goals” (PhD thesis) – Author: Chih Cheng (Lecturer in International Business, Nottingham Trent University, UK) – Supervisors: Dr Stefan Zagelmeyer, Prof Timothy Devinney

    2025 “Tackling inequality through access to remedy: applying the business and human rights governance approach to international labour standards in Brazil” (PhD thesis) – Author: Tamara Brezighello Hojaij (Fundação Getulio Vargas, FGV, São Paulo Law School, Brazil) – Supervisors: Dr Stefan Zagelmeyer, Prof Matt Alford

    2024 “Essays on Foreign Subsidiary Divestmen by Multinational Enterprises and the Role of Internal Corporate Embeddedness” (PhD thesis) – Author: Carlos Cordova Chea (Lecturer in International Business, University of East Anglia, UK) – Supervisors: Dr Stefan Zagelmeyer, Prof Timothy Devinney

    2023 “A Behavioural Model of Outsourcing Decision Evaluations for Human Rights Issues in Global Supply Chains” (PhD thesis) – Author: Dr Mohamed Genawi (Lecturer in International Business, Manchester Metropolitan University, UK) – Supervisors: Dr Stefan Zagelmeyer, Prof Timothy Devinney

    2022 “International Business and Human Rights: Understanding the Conditions Multinational Enterprises Institutionalise Human Rights Due Diligence” (PhD thesis) – Author: Dr Brian D. Vera (Lecturer in International Business, University of Liverpool, UK) – Supervisors: Dr Stefan Zagelmeyer, Prof Ken McPhail

    2022 “Predicting and improving organisation performance: A heuristic model” (DBA thesis) – Author: Dr Ramakrishna Krovvidi (DU, UAE) – Supervisors, Dr Stefan Zagelmeyer, Dr Asmund Rygh

    2020 “Managing the Duality of Foreignness in a Complex and Heterogenous Environment: MNE Subsidiaries in Cameroon” (PhD thesis) – Author: Dr Young Hoon An (Lecturer in International Business, University of Groningen, The Netherlands) – Supervisors: Dr Stefan Zagelmeyer, Dr Asmund Rygh  

    2017 “Human Capital Resources, Human Resource Management Policies, and Employee Perceptions: An Investigation of Young Professionals in the Banking Sector of Pakistan” (PhD thesis) – Author: Dr Syed Imran Saqib (Lecturer in Human Resource Management and Employment Studies, University of Manchester, UK) – Supervisors: Dr Matt Allen, Dr Stefan Zagelmeyer  

    Pedagogy

    My teaching experience spans a wide range of academic contexts—from delivering lectures to large undergraduate cohorts of up to 400 students, to facilitating small-group seminars with MBA participants, contributing to executive education, and supervising research dissertations and theses. This breadth has reinforced my commitment to adapting pedagogical approaches to diverse learner groups while ensuring that teaching remains engaging and relevant.

    At the core of my teaching philosophy is a commitment to intellectual curiosity, critical inquiry, analytical rigor, and academic excellence. I value interactive learning and the co-creation of knowledge. I strive to create a learning environment that encourages students to question assumptions, engage in constructive dialogue, and explore the complexities of international business and human resource management with depth and nuance.

    My approach is student-centred, inclusive, and reflective. I draw on a range of pedagogical methods to create dynamic and meaningful learning experiences. I believe students co-produce knowledge through active engagement, critical reflection, and contextual application.

    The overarching objectives of my teaching are to:

    • Equip students with the analytical tools needed to tackle the challenges of international business and human resource management;
    • Demonstrate how systematic problem analysis can lead to innovative and practical strategic insights;
    • Inspire students to develop their own approaches to managing organizations effectively; and
    • Promote awareness of the ethical and societal implications of managerial decisions.

    To achieve these aims, I design learning environments that emphasize interaction, relevance, and real-world application. I use simulations, role-plays, case studies, experiential exercises, and live business projects to help students bridge theory and practice. These approaches transform students from passive recipients of information into engaged, reflective learners capable of applying theoretical insights to complex real-world situations.

    For adult learners, I tailor content to their professional contexts and support self-directed learning and autonomy. Across all formats, I model and promote reflective practice, encouraging students to evaluate their learning and enhance their critical thinking.

    By combining scaffolded learning, technology-enhanced instruction, and collaborative approaches, I aim to cultivate intellectual curiosity, resilience, and professional readiness—contributing to the development of ethical, innovative, and globally competent graduates.

    Teaching

    Alliance Manchester Business School, UK

    • Managing Across Cultures, sole convenor, MSc, since 2018
    • Comparative Business and Management, sole convenor, MSc, since 2018
    • International Business Strategy, sole convenor, Global/FT MBA, since 2013, with workshop teaching in São Paulo, Miami, Manchester, Dubai, Singapore, Shanghai and Hong Kong
    • Critical Issues in International Business, PGR, 2014-17
    • Research Methods and Data Analysis, co-convenor, MSc, 2014-2015
    • International Business Environment, sole convenor, BSc, 2014-2015
    • Comparative and International Business, Global MBA, 2013-2014

    CIFFOP, University of Paris II, Pantheon-Assas, France

    • HRM and Cross-border Mergers & Acquisitions, MSc, since 2011
    • Industrial Relations in the European Union, MSc, 2014-2025

    University of Twente, The Netherlands

    • Cross-Cultural Management, BSc, 2012
    • Organizational Behaviour, BSc, 2012
    • HRM: Staffing and Training, MSc, 2011 

    Turku School of Economics, University of Turku, Finland

    • Strategic International Human Resource Management, MSc, 2011-2012 

    CNAM, Paris, France

    • Human Resource Management, MBA, 2011 

    International University of Applied Sciences Bad Honnef-Bonn, Germany

    • Advanced International Human Resource Management, MA, 2012-2014
    • Comparative Human Resource Management, MA, 2012-2014
    • Advanced Research Methods, MA, 2012-2014
    • Strategic Management, MA, 2005
    • Human Resource Management, BA/MA, 2004-2014
    • International Human Resource Management, BA, 2005-2014
    • Comparative Labor Relations, BA, 2004-2014
    • Organizational Behaviour, BA/MA, 2004-2014
    • Research Methods, (BA), 2004
    • Professional Development, BA, 2004
    • Microeconomics, BA, 2004-2006 

    Manchester School of Management, UMIST, UK

    • Comparative Industrial Relations, co-convenor, BSc, 2002-2004
    • Research Methods for Organizations, co-convenor, MSc, 2002-2004
    • Personnel Economics, sole convenor, BSc, 2002-2004
    • International Employment Policy and Practice, co-convenor, BSc, 2002-2004
    • Seminar Human Resource Management, BSc, 2002-2004

    University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Germany

    • Seminar Intermediate Microeconomics, BSc, 2001-2002
    • Seminar Labour Economics II, MSc, 2000, 2001-2002
    • Research seminar Labour Economics, MSc, 2000-2002

    University of Stellenbosch, Graduate School of Business, South Africa

    • International Human Resource Management, MBA, 2000
    • Global Integration and Labour, MBA, 2000

    Further information

    Leadership Roles at the University of Manchester

    • Programme Director, MSc International Business and Management (PGT), 2023–2026
    • Programme Director, Research Training Programme (PGR), 2023–2026
    • Programme Director, Master of Research (PGR), 2023–2026
    • Member, Peer Reviewer College, 2018–2024
    • Chair, Divisional Board, People, Management and Organisation Division, 2021–2024
    • Course Unit Coordinator, International Business Strategy (FT/Global MBA, Transnational Education), 2014–present
    • Director of International Studies (UGT), 2003–2004
    • Admissions Tutor, MSc Human Resource Management and Industrial Relations (PGT), 2003–2004

    Leadership Roles at Other Universities

    • Research Coordinator (reporting to the Rector), IUBH, 2011–2014
    • Elected Member, Senate, IUBH, 2011–2013
    • Dean (Head of School), CBS Cologne and European Management School (EMS Mainz, Leipzig, Dresden), 2007–2008
    • Head, International Business Department, Cologne Business School, 2007–2008
    • Member, Senate, Cologne Business School, 2007–2008
    • Programme Director, BA International Management, Cologne Business School, 2007–2008
    • Programme Director, BA Management (Double Degree with University of Hertfordshire, UK), Cologne Business School, 2008
    • Programme Co-Director, Joint Global MBA with Maastricht School of Management (Netherlands), Cologne Business School, 2007–2008
    • Specialisation Coordinator, ‘Human Resource Management’, MA Management, IUBH, 2007–2014

    Roles as External Examiner

    • BSc Management and BSc International Management, University of Nottingham Business School, 2022–2026
    • DBA Examiner, University of Warwick, 2025
    • PhD Examiner, University of Huddersfield, 2024, 2025
    • PhD Examiner, University of Wollongong (Australia), 2018
    • PhD Examiner, University of Kent, 2017
    • PhD Examiner, Alliance Manchester Business School, 2014–2017
    • PhD Examiner, Maastricht University (Netherlands), 2010

    Other Engagement

    • Executive Board Member, AIB UK & Ireland, Representative for Teaching & Education, since 2024
    • Coordinator, Chapter Events, Teaching & Education SIG, Academy of International Business (AIB) World, since 2024
    • Academic Expert and Accreditation Team Member, FIBAA (international accreditation processes), since 2007
    • Co-Coordinator, Study Group “Human Resource Management,” International Labour and Employment Relations Association (with Prof. Dr. Mark J. Smith, EM Lyon, France), since 2004

    Motivation and Motto

    “Felix, qui potest rerum cognoscere causas” (Virgil) - “Fortunate is s/he, who is able to know the causes of things”. 

    In my role, I am afforded a multitude of privileges: the freedom to observe, to explore, to ponder, to question, to engage in discourse, to challenge norms, and to continually learn in the pursuit of understanding, knowledge, and truth. In the academic field of international business, it is not feasible to accomplish this within the confines of an ivory tower. It necessitates being in the field, engaging in dialogue with individuals, and exchanging thoughts with those who share similar interests. I extend an invitation for you to accompany me on this journey.

    Expertise related to UN Sustainable Development Goals

    In 2015, UN member states agreed to 17 global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all. This person’s work contributes towards the following SDG(s):

    • SDG 4 - Quality Education
    • SDG 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth
    • SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
    • SDG 10 - Reduced Inequalities
    • SDG 16 - Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
    • SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals

    Education/Academic qualification

    Certified Management & Business Educator (CMBE), Chartered Association of Business Schools

    Award Date: 6 Jun 2025

    Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA)

    Award Date: 10 Sept 2024

    Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education (PGCertHE)

    Award Date: 15 Dec 2022

    Dr. rer. pol. (equivantent ro PhD) in Economics, Friedrich-Alexander Universitat Erlangen Nurnberg

    Award Date: 1 Apr 2002

    Diplom-Volkswirt (equivalent to MSc in Economics) , Universitat zu Koln

    Award Date: 1 Jul 1997

    Master in Science, Industrial Relations & Personnel Management, London School of Economics & Political Science (University of London)

    Award Date: 1 Nov 1995

    External positions

    Visiting Professor, Turun Yliopisto (Univ of Turku)

    1 Jan 201231 Jan 2012

    Guest Professor IHRM, Université Paris-Panthéon-Assas

    1 Sept 2011 → …

    Visiting Academic, University of Twente

    1 Aug 201131 Jul 2012

    Visiting Professor, Turun Yliopisto (Univ of Turku)

    1 Jan 201131 Jan 2011

    Professor of Human Resource Management, International University Bad Honnef-Bonn

    1 Jan 200931 Jul 2014

    Professor of Human Resource Management, Cologne Business School

    1 Nov 200731 Dec 2008

    Professor of Economics and Organizational Beghaviour, International University Bad Honnef-Bonn

    1 Sept 200431 Oct 2007

    Lecturer in Human Resource Management, UMIST

    1 Oct 200230 Aug 2004

    Research Associate, University of Cambridge

    1 Sept 200130 Aug 2002

    Marie-Curie Fellow, University of Cambridge

    1 Sept 200131 Dec 2001

    Researcher, Max Planck Institute for the Study of Societies

    1 Jul 199931 Mar 2000

    Researcher, German Institute for Economic Research

    1 Mar 199731 May 1999

    Areas of expertise

    • HB Economic Theory
    • labour market
    • labour
    • working conditions
    • labour reguation
    • HD28 Management. Industrial Management
    • Human resource management
    • Organisational Behaviour
    • Industrial relations
    • International Business
    • Strategy
    • JA Political science (General)
    • Comparative Business Management
    • Comparative corporate governance, regulation, institutions
    • JZ International relations
    • Colonisation
    • Decolonisation
    • International human rights
    • L Education (General)
    • Human rights ed ucation
    • Democracy education
    • Political education
    • Sustainability education

    Keywords

    • comparative institutional analysis
    • cross-cultural management
    • international HRM
    • international business strategy
    • business and huan rights
    • colleagive bargaining
    • employee voice
    • comparative political economy
    • international political economy
    • geopolitics
    • colonialism
    • decolonisation

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