Dr Matti Morovat BEM

With over 24 years of combined industry and academic experience, I am Programme Leader for the Direct Entry Stage 3 Business and Management and Business and Marketing Management on-campus programmes at the University of Sunderland. In this role, I oversee the academic delivery and student experience for approximately 300 students each year, with a strong focus on quality assurance, progression, and employability. I also lead the Direct Entry Stage 3 Business and Management Transnational Education (TNE) provision across the University’s partner institutions, helping to ensure a consistent and inclusive student experience for learners studying both in the UK and overseas. In addition, I act as Global Partner Lead for SBCS in Trinidad and also represent the Faculty of Business and Technology as a member of the Faculty Academic Board.

I hold a PhD in Management from Durham University and am a Certified Management and Business Educator (CMBE). I am an active member of professional bodies including the British Academy of Management (BAM) and the European Academy of Management (EURAM), and I have presented on a number of occasions at academic conferences such as BAM, EURAM, the BAM MKTP Teaching Practice Conference, and the Three Rivers Conference, the Voluntary Sector and Volunteering Research Conference, and Sunderland University Sustainability Week.

My research interests centre on teaching pedagogy, student voice, and the third sector. I am particularly interested in innovative and inclusive pedagogical approaches that enhance student engagement, employability. My third sector research is multidisciplinary, with a focus on digital innovation, sustainability, organisational culture, emotional wellbeing, leadership and volunteerism.

A central theme of my teaching practice is the integration of digital innovation, sustainability, and experiential learning within the curriculum. I place particular emphasis on career readiness, soft skills development, and real-world application, often through consultancy-style projects that mirror professional practice. An example of my teaching approach is explored as a chapter in the book “Skills Development for Responsible Management: A Guide to Innovative Pedagogical Practices for Sustainable Futures” (Routledge), which examines the redesign of the Delivering Projects for Organisational Success module here at the University of Sunderland.

Beyond teaching and research, I am actively engaged in external and civic-facing initiatives. I have played a key role in organising and supporting events such as the University of Sunderland Third Sector Conference, the University of Sunderland Global Education Forum, and appearing on Spark Radio’s Business Bites, helping to strengthen links between the University, industry, and the wider community.

My teaching contributions have been recognised through a number of honours, including being shortlisted as a finalist in the Green Gown Awards 2025 for sustainability action. I have also been recognised for my commitment to teaching and student support, including being named Student Employee of the Year at Durham University in 2018, and progressing to the national awards at the National Student Employment Association Conference. Since joining the University of Sunderland, my teaching has been recognised each year through regular nominations in the student-nominated teaching awards.

Alongside my academic role, I draw on extensive industry experience gained through leadership, managerial, and consultancy roles across the private and voluntary sectors in the UK and the Middle East. My ongoing consultancy work continues to inform my teaching, ensuring that students benefit from current, practice-based insights and an applied understanding of contemporary business challenges.

In 2021 I was awarded a British Empire Medal for my services to my community and my voluntary service. This recognition reflects my deep commitment to making a positive difference in people's lives and my passion for serving the community.

I had the esteemed honour of being invited to witness the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III at Westminster Abbey.