Rawi E. Abdelal's biography
- Expert on geopolitical trends affecting businesses
- Transformative strategist and advisor for leaders
- Award-winning professor at Harvard Business School
Rawi Abdelal is a prominent expert in the geopolitical trends that shape businesses, economies, supply chains, and social structures. His insights into the complex interplay between global events and organisational strategy make him a valuable resource for leaders seeking to navigate an increasingly interconnected world. Rawi's extensive experience as a transformative strategist and advisor equips him to guide organisations towards sustainable futures.
With a distinguished academic background, Rawi previously held the position of Director at the Davis Center for Russian and Eurasian Studies. His tenure there allowed him to deepen his understanding of the geopolitical landscape, particularly in relation to Eastern Europe and Central Asia. As an award-winning professor of International Management at Harvard Business School, he has influenced a generation of business leaders, imparting knowledge on how to effectively manage in a global context.
Throughout his career, Rawi has faced the challenges of translating complex geopolitical dynamics into actionable strategies for businesses. His ability to distil intricate information into practical insights has earned him recognition in both academic and professional circles. Rawi's work has not only contributed to the field of international management but has also provided organisations with the tools to adapt to shifting global conditions.
His qualifications and experience position him as a thought leader in understanding the implications of geopolitical changes on business operations. Rawi's commitment to fostering sustainable practices within organisations reflects his belief in the importance of responsible leadership in today’s world. As businesses continue to grapple with the uncertainties of the global landscape, Rawi's expertise offers a guiding light for those looking to thrive amidst change.
Rawi's showreel and videos
Topics, sessions and talks
Imagining the Next Global Economy
Rawi Abdelal, an award-winning professor at Harvard Business School, addresses the pressing challenges facing global economies, such as supply chain issues and social activism. He contrasts the current global economy with the emerging one, shifting his focus from the world's fragility to envisioning a sustainable future. Attendees will learn about the macro and micro forces shaping trends and discover actionable insights to foster a more equitable and sustainable business environment.
Ukraine Conflict: Impact on Future Business & Society
In his presentation, Rawi Abdelal, a distinguished professor at Harvard Business School, explores the implications of the Ukraine conflict on business and society. Drawing on Chekhov’s principle that unresolved elements must come to a head, he discusses how NATO expansion and shifting American influence are now pivotal. Abdelal delves into the historical roots of the crisis and predicts a redefined European security landscape, highlighting the potential impacts on markets, multinational corporations, and the future of globalisation. Attendees will gain insights into these critical developments.
Europe’s Economy: Impact of Political and Social Movements on Business
Rawi Abdelal will discuss the current European macroeconomic, political, and social landscape, highlighting the impact of quantitative easing, negative interest rates, and the rise of populist movements. He will address the implications of Brexit, political instability in Italy, and tensions between Russia and the West. Through keynotes and workshops, attendees will learn how these factors affect business operations in Europe, enabling them to make informed decisions, optimise investments, and adapt their business models effectively.
Turning Your Organization Around from the Ground Up
In his talk, Rawi Abdelal, a distinguished Harvard Business School Professor, addresses the challenges organisations face amid “The Great Resignation” and societal divisions. He emphasises that employee frustrations extend beyond financial concerns, highlighting the importance of how companies treat and value their workforce. As an expert in international management, Professor Abdelal will share actionable strategies for organisations to implement, enabling them to achieve significant positive change for their employees and overall business success.
The CFO’s Critical Role in Capability Building
Rawi Abdelal emphasises the vital role of CFOs in capability building as organisations adapt to the evolving workplace. He notes that many companies find their workforce skills misaligned with market demands. Drawing on a 2018 McKinsey survey, he reveals that 40% of CFOs believe their strategic leadership adds the most value. Abdelal argues that CFOs are uniquely equipped to provide necessary resources for infrastructure, technology, and talent development, while also exemplifying essential cross-functional skills. Attendees will learn how CFOs can drive organisational success in the post-pandemic landscape.
Why we recommend booking Rawi
Book Rawi Abdelal to gain invaluable insights into geopolitical trends that shape your business landscape. His expertise empowers you to navigate challenges and seize opportunities, ensuring your organisation thrives sustainably in an ever-evolving world.
Rawi is a gifted, passionate story-teller who is capable of illuminating the most complex political and economic phenomena without intimidating his audience or leaving anyone behind. You end up feeling smarter and more insightful about how the world is changing around you.
Frances Frei
Harvard Business School, Harvard Business School
His breadth and command of his subject matter are truly impressive. On numerous occasions, Rawi delivered superb, stimulating, and memorable presentations to our investors. He connects extremely well with his listeners and was always one of our most popular speakers. Rawi is a truly unique academic with a flair for both educating and entertaining his rapt audiences.
Gregg S. Fisher
Founder, Portfolio Manager, Gerstein Fisher
As one of the world's great academics, Rawi Abdelal is the best person on earth to give a tour of our international landscape. We had the honor of him doing just that at one of our executive leadership sessions, bringing us unprecedented clarity and insight into the complicated world we live in and how we can use these insights to best serve our global constituents. Rawi is thought-provoking rich with applicable teachings and simply a delight to learn from.
