Brent D. Williams

Brent D. Williams is Professor and Dean of the Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas, where he also holds the Sam M. Walton Endowed Leadership Chair. He joined the faculty in 2011 and has served in key leadership roles including interim dean, senior associate dean, and chair of the Department of Supply Chain Management.

His research and professional focus lies in supply chain management, particularly in enhancing the performance of retail supply chains. He has consistently engaged with industry partners to support student success, innovation, and applied research. His leadership has been instrumental in initiatives such as the McMillon Innovation Studio and the Walton College at 2nd & Main in Downtown Little Rock.

Williams earned his Ph.D. in Business Administration from the University of Arkansas. He previously held faculty positions at Texas Christian University and Auburn University. As a native Arkansan from Newport, he brings deep regional commitment to advancing the Walton College’s national reputation.

Under his leadership, the Walton College—ranked among the top business schools nationally—continues to excel in areas including supply chain management (ranked No. 1 in North America by Gartner), MBA return on investment, and entrepreneurship education. The college serves nearly 9,000 students and is AACSB-accredited.

• Named Dean: February 1, 2024
• Interim Dean: August 2023 – January 2024
• Senior Associate Dean: Oversaw academic departments, strategic planning, and student success
• Endowed Chairs: Garrison Endowed Chair in Supply Chain Management; transitioning to Sam M. Walton Endowed Leadership Chair

While no specific scientific awards or publications are mentioned in the source text, his leadership has been nationally endorsed through a rigorous search process that affirmed his position over other candidates. He is actively engaged in mentoring, teaching, and administrative innovation.

Williams leads multiple strategic initiatives and teams, including the development of new academic and innovation spaces, and works closely with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and industry partners to expand the college’s impact. His vision emphasizes sustained growth, academic excellence, and economic development in Arkansas and beyond.