Simon Oliver Raby

Simon Oliver Raby is an Associate Professor of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Mount Royal University's Bissett School of Business. He holds a PhD in Management (SME Growth & HRM), MSc in Management (Family Business Growth), and BSc in Management Science & Business, completed part-time during his consulting career. He co-founded Business Improvement and Growth (BIG) Associates Ltd, bridging academic research and practical business growth strategies.

His research explores entrepreneurial growth models, leadership transitions, SME sustainability, and human resource innovation. Key initiatives include developing the Leader's Growth Mindset framework and investigating sales/business development competencies. Publications consistently focus on SME management strategies across international contexts, emphasizing practical applications of entrepreneurial theory and HR systems.

Awards include a Research Excellence Framework commendation for SME growth research and recognition by the Chartered Association of Business Schools. Grant leadership spans:

• SME Steward Grant ($276,225): Improving Alberta's business support ecosystem
• Leverhulme Trust Grant ($38,000): Sustainable SME growth strategies
• Canadian Centre for Advanced Leadership Grant ($40,000): Executive transition capabilities

He directs community initiatives as board member for the Institute of Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Calgary Chamber of Commerce programs, and Energy For All nonprofit. Editorial roles include the International Journal of Entrepreneurial Behavior & Research.