ICBM 2024: Fostering Collaboration for a Sustainable Future!

As co-chairs of the 20th International Conference on Business Management (ICBM), held from February 26th to March 1st, 2024, we are delighted to look back on a remarkably successful week.  We are grateful for your participation and contributions that made ICBM 2024 a truly enriching experience for all.

The week commenced with pre-conference workshops, setting the stage for knowledge exchange and discussions on crucial topics like Artificial Intelligence, economic revitalization, increasing publication visibility and qualitative research methodologies. The Undergraduate Research Conference provided a valuable platform for young researchers to showcase their research and gain valuable feedback from the audience.

The ICBM itself, themed “Resilience and Reinvention for Sustainable Development in the VUCA world,” brought together a global audience of scholars and practitioners in the main conference. We were particularly impressed by the high-quality research papers presented across various tracks, reflecting the conference’s commitment to exploring solutions for achieving sustainable development in today’s complex world.

The PhD Colloquium provided a dedicated space for doctoral students to present their research and receive constructive feedback from experts.  The ICBM Business Forum emerged as a highlight, fostering a dynamic exchange of knowledge between academia and industry leaders.  The launch of the ICBM 2024 Case study book, a collaborative effort between industry and faculty, further enriched the forum’s discussions.

The Business Forum which was held at BMICH on 1^st of March, emerged as a cornerstone of the conference, fostering the exchange of knowledge and fortifying relationships between academia and industry practitioners. The target audience encompassed a diverse group, including industry leaders, middle-level, and senior-level professionals from various sectors in the private and public domain. This inclusive gathering comprised CEOs, senior executives, government officers, industry experts, and academics, with a total attendance of approximately 150 participants.

The success of the Business Forum was amplified by the active participation of major companies and esteemed panelists. Hatton National Bank was represented by Mr. Damith Pallewatte, Deputy General Manager, Wholesale Banking Group. John Keells Properties had Mr. Nayana Mawilmada, President of the Property sector, as its representative. Sen Vin Collection Ltd was represented by Ms. Tania S Abeysundara, Co-Founder & Chairperson, and Lanka Salusala Ltd by Mr. Denzil Perera, Chairman. The event’s discussions were expertly moderated by Dr. P.J.S. Fernando.

We are especially grateful to our keynote speakers, Prof. (Emeritus) Indralal De Silva, Prof. John Dumay, and the esteemed panelists who shared their valuable insights.  The active participation of industry representatives from Hatton National Bank, John Keells Properties, Sen Vin Collection Ltd, and Lanka Salusala Ltd significantly enriched the Business Forum.

We extend our sincere appreciation to everyone who contributed to the success of ICBM 2024, including the organizing committee, faculty members, staff, student volunteers, and of course, all our delegates and participants.