Orla Smith

Orla Smith is a Senior Lecturer in Retail Operations and Marketing at the Manchester Metropolitan University Business School, joining in 2018. She holds a PhD researching Male Consumer Behaviour in skincare cosmetics. With over 20 years in retail management, including roles at Debenhams and Primark, her industry experience informs her teaching. She is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) and a member of the Chartered Association of Business Schools (AMBE).

Her teaching focuses on Retail and Marketing programs, including the Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship (CMDA) and Retail Leadership programmes. She employs blended learning methods, combining academic theory with industry insights to enhance student employability. Supervision responsibilities include undergraduate and postgraduate research projects, emphasizing inclusive and student-centered approaches.

Orla's research interests span consumer behavior, leadership, and retail operations. She actively engages with current industry trends and maintains a keen interest in politics and global affairs. Her career transition from retail management to academia reflects her commitment to bridging theoretical and practical business education.