Areas of Research

Research at the heart of Excelia Business School’s mission and strategy

Our 3 key research areas aim to encourage all forms of intellectual contribution and to raise Excelia Business School’s profile and reputation in the research arena.

Research Area no.1: Sustainable Development & Corporate Social Responsibility

Head of Research Area: Pierre Baret

The Sustainable Development & Corporate Social Responsibility (SD-CSR) Research Axis constitutes one of the School’s strategic pillars in research. It contributes directly to Excelia’s mission by advancing scientific knowledge on ecological and social transitions while supporting societal transformation within the territories in which the School is embedded. The Axis plays a central role in consolidating Excelia’s identity as an institution historically committed to sustainability, ethics, and responsibility, positioning it within national and international debates on sustainable development and responsible management. Its activities aim to be aligned with demands for responsible management, societal relevance, and sustainability integration across research, teaching, and institutional practices.

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Area of Research no. 2: Tourism Management

Head of Research Area: Marine L'Hostis

The Tourism Management Axis is dedicated to animating the community of Excelia researchers conducting research in tourism and to encouraging collaboration and cross-fertilization, regardless of their core discipline (e.g., marketing, strategy, finance). Regular meetings are organized internally, often structured around a presentation by an external researcher on an innovative theme (e.g., "philantourism"). This dynamic is reinforced by active participation in the national “GIS Tourisme” network (CNRS) and by animating the international Alliance network. The Alliance brings together tourism researchers from Ana G. Mendez (Puerto Rico), Sheffield Hallam (UK), and Hochschule Luzern (Switzerland). More than 15 researchers are engaged in this axis, exploring topics such as destination management and marketing, tourism's role in economic development, the evolution of tourism markets, consumer behavior, and the impact of future technologies.

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Area of Research no. 3: Agility, Innovation Digitalisation (AID)

Head of Research Area: Mirza ELAHI

The Agility, Innovation, and Digitalisation (AID) Research Axis represents a core strength of Excelia Business School's research in business and management. The axis' inquiry explores how corporates can remain adaptable, innovative, and resilient in an increasingly digital and uncertain environment. Its concentration is on critical topics such as innovation processes, financial management, entrepreneurship, human-focused organizational change, and robust digital supply chains. The aim is to generate thoughtful and relevant research that guides businesses with the insights needed to make informed decisions, embrace sustainable practices, navigate complexity, and foster long term and resilient growth in dynamic markets.

More about the Agility, Innovation, and Digitalisation (AID) Research Axis