Imran Ali

Dr Imran Ali is a globally ranked researcher, academic leader, and innovative educator, recognized as a thought leader in business management, specifically in information systems, logistics, operations, and supply chain management. His research continues to shape digital transformation, supply chain resilience, and business innovation, significantly impacting academia and industry. As the Discipline Leader and Senior Lecturer in Management & Innovation at Central Queensland University's (CQUniversity) Melbourne Campus, he plays a key role in leading and mentoring faculty, shaping academic programs, and driving research and teaching innovation. With over 18 years of combined academic and industry experience, he brings strategic leadership, research excellence, and strong industry engagement to his role.

Dr Ali earned his PhD in Business Management (specializing in Logistics and Supply Chain Management) from the University of South Australia’s Business School in 2017 through a fully funded scholarship. His expertise spans digital transformation, AI, blockchain, IoT, risk management, resilience, sustainability, and climate change, with a strong focus on the agri-food supply chains. His current research explores the optimal level of human-AI collaboration for enhanced productivity. His research aligns with multiple United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (1, 2, 8, 9, & 13). In recognition of his research contributions, he has been ranked among the top 2% of the most cited researchers in business and management globally, according to the Stanford University rankings in 2023. Additionally, ScholarGPS ranks him 361st among 35,230 supply chain scholars worldwide, placing him in the top 1.03% for productivity, top 1.94% for impact, and top 1.01% overall. His research has gained widespread media attention, with coverage on ABC TV, 9News, 10News, ABC Radio, the Conversation, the Guardian, and the Sydney Morning Herald, reflecting its practical relevance in global discussions on food security, logistics, and supply chain management challenges.

Dr Ali has a growing publication record, with 63 articles published in top-tier (A*/A, ABS 3/4, Q1) journals since 2018, including the International Journal of Information Management, Transportation Part E: Logistics and Transportation Review, International Journal of Operations & Production Management, Supply Chain Management: An International Journal, International Journal of Production Economics, Production Planning & Control, Industrial Marketing Management, Journal of Business Research, IEEE Transactions on Engineering Management, and others.

He also holds editorial positions in several prestigious (Q1 & Q2) journals, serving as Regional Editor for the Asia Pacific Business Review, Guest Editor for Transportation Part E: Logistics and Transportation Review (ABDC A*), and Asia Pacific Business Review (ABDC B), and as an editorial board member for Production Planning & Control (ABDC A), Journal of Business Research (ABDC A), and the International Journal of Logistics Management (ABDC A).

Before joining academia, Imran held various managerial positions (> 10 years) at small and large organisations and contributed to the organisations' productivity by conducting business analysis, problem-driven research, and benefits realisation reports. As a Business Consultant, Imran applied a range of business management tools and trained staff, earning him a "Best Performance Award" from the company's CEO.