Phillip C. Nell

Prof. Dr. Phillip C. Nell is a Chaired Professor at the Institute for International Business (IIB) at WU Vienna University of Economics and Business, where he serves as the head of the Institute. He is the Academic Director of WU's flagship Master in International Management/CEMS program and the Executive MBA Bucharest Program. Prior to joining WU, he held a professorship at Copenhagen Business School and worked as a strategy consultant with Roland Berger. His academic career includes a doctorate and habilitation from WU, following studies in Germany, France, and Italy.

His research focuses on the organization of multinational corporations (MNCs), the management of subsidiaries, and the strategic role of headquarters. Recent projects explore AI reliance in startup valuations, cognitive exhaustion in decision-making, and the impact of selective intervention climates on subunit strategy.

The team’s research, including Nell’s contributions, has been published in top journals such as Strategic Management Journal, Journal of International Business Studies, and Research Policy. Current projects include “Headquarters in Austria,” funded by eXplore!, OeNB Jubiläumsfonds, and other institutions.

Prof. Nell’s teaching excellence has been recognized with multiple CEMS course of the year awards. He has taught at institutions including ESADE Business School and universities in Helsinki, Oslo, Padova, St. Gallen, Prague, Brussels, and Rio de Janeiro.

• Academic Director of Master in International Management/CEMS
• Academic Director of Executive MBA Bucharest Program
• Operational leadership of “Headquarters in Austria” research project