A. Prof. Sikandar Ali Qalati

Liaocheng University, China

Brief Introduction: Dr. Qalati was born in Pakistan on April 1986 and did his Ph.D. from Jiangsu University, China in Management Science and Engineering. He is an experienced and motivated associate professor with excellent educational credentials and hands-on experience in activities/event management, education, and research. He is skilled at performing quality control and managing several projects while meeting deadlines under pressure. Dr. Qalati is also a superb facilitator who thrives on using managerial, interpersonal, communication, presentation, and persuasive abilities to conduct training programs and organize high-end professional courses. Before joining Liaocheng University as an associate professor, Dr. Qalati worked as an associate professor at Jiangsu University. Dr. Qalati has published over 40 SCI/SSCI publications in the last three years. His work has been published in well reputable and highly cited journals e.g., Journal of Cleaner Production (Q1), Technology in Society (Q1), Managerial and Decision Economics (Q2), and many others as a first author. Among his academic achievements, Dr. Qalati was awarded the Best Thesis award from the School of Management of Jiangsu University based on research publications for 2018, 2019, and 2020. In addition, he was awarded Jiangsu Presidential Scholarship for Ph.D. and renewed it every year. Currently, Dr. Qalati is working with professors from well-recognized universities around the world, such as the University of Porto (Portuguese); the Autonomous University of Tamaulipas (Mexico); the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (United States); Dhofar University (Oman); King Faisal University (Saudi Arabia); Kuwait University (Kuwait); University of Punjab (Pakistan).

Title:  Social media usage by Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in developing countries.

Abstract: lthough larger firms globally can adopt social media and other internet-based strategies without requiring additional resources, social media can be employed by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) because of its low cost, technical manageability and ease of use, and its capability to connect with and reach to an ample number of consumers. The adoption of social media is constantly growing in enterprises in developing countries and is currently considered a key strategy in SMEs; conversely, SMEs are using several social media podiums. It is one of the most popular choices for small businesses in developing countries because it facilitates rapid and clear communication among two parties (e.g., firm-customer relationship), letting businesses understand customer needs and respond competently and proactively to these needs. Social media is also a somewhat low-cost choice for analytics, conversion tracking, content management, automated publishing, and customer targeting. Social media usage by SMEs is regarded as crucial in the entrepreneurship and business literature in developed and developing countries. It also enables SMEs to maintain their competitive position by strengthening customer relationships, positively impacting sales performance.

Prof.Rami Khalil

Sichuan International Studies University, China

Brief Introduction: Professor Rami Khalil is a tenure university professor, international arbitrator, author, entrepreneur, and inventor with more than 25 years of industrial, teaching, research, and consulting experience in the fields of management and marketing. He has a long international academic and scientific career with outstanding achievements, resulting in 3 international patents. He also served as an editorial board member of the International Talent Exchange, sponsored by the Ministry of Science and Technology of China magazine.

A Professor of great professional experience and teaching skills, Prof. Khalil encouraged many people to follow his dreams and ideals in line with current trends. He was instrumental in establishing the Sino-Australian joint program at Sichuan International Studies University and the University of Newcastle. He taught over ten courses to over 1200 students and was approved by the Chinese Education Commission as the first-class hybrid courses, perfectly fusing Offline and Online teaching within the course. His academic research findings have found wide-spread publications in prestigious international journals, and his book series are regarded as the "must-have" for professionals and researchers professionals in e-commerce, marketing, economics, and sustainable development, etc., including China's developments in these industries. To illustrate, through his role as the Chair of the Armenian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in China, Professor Khalil demonstrates his commitment to deepening the economic and cultural bonds between Chongqing and Yerevan. By forging a sister-region pact between them he has provided the basis for innumerable cooperations and mutual benefits.

Title:  Innovative Leadership in a Digital Era

Abstract: In our rapidly evolving digital landscape, the essence of leadership is being redefined, especially in a country like China, which has been at the forefront of technological advancement. This keynote will explore the qualities of innovative leaders who can effectively navigate this complex environment and drive transformation. We'll begin by discussing the characteristics that make a leader effective today: adaptability, emotional intelligence, and a growth mindset. In China, where technology is advancing at an unprecedented pace, leaders must embrace change and foster a culture of innovation. We'll highlight how Chinese companies are leveraging diverse perspectives to drive creativity and enhance problem-solving capabilities.

Through compelling case studies of Chinese organizations that have successfully embraced digital transformation—like Alibaba and Tencent—we'll illustrate the impact of visionary leadership. These companies exemplify how embracing agile methodologies and promoting continuous learning can propel businesses forward, even in the face of global challenges.

Moreover, we'll address the unique challenges leaders in China face, such as managing remote teams and maintaining employee engagement in a digital-first world. We'll provide practical strategies for overcoming these hurdles, emphasizing the importance of creating an inclusive and collaborative environment.

As we wrap up, we'll reflect on how innovative leadership is crucial not only for individual organizations but also for China's continued growth on the global stage. Attendees will leave inspired and equipped with actionable insights to elevate their leadership practices in our increasingly digital world. This exploration will resonate deeply, linking the principles of effective leadership to China’s remarkable technological journey.