Dongzhi Chen | Business | Research Excellence Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dongzhi Chen | Business | Research Excellence Award

Associate Professor | Tianjin University of Finance and Economics | China

Dr. Dongzhi Chen is a researcher at the China Tourism Academy / Data Center of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Beijing, specializing in tourism analytics, digital platforms, and consumer behavior within the hospitality sector. His research focuses on peer-to-peer accommodation, platform-based trust mechanisms, and the evolving dynamics of traveler–host interactions. Dr. Chen has produced 11 scholarly publications, which have collectively earned 146 citations and an h-index of 6, demonstrating both his academic productivity and the rising impact of his work. His recent article, “Hosts’ Facial Affinity in Peer-to-Peer Platforms: Scale Development and Validation”, reflects his expertise in developing behavioral scales, applying robust empirical methods, and exploring nuanced dimensions of digital hospitality engagement. Over the course of his research career, Dr. Chen has collaborated with 19 co-authors, contributing to multidisciplinary studies that address tourism experience quality, service personalization, consumer perception modeling, and data-driven strategic planning. His research has been cited in studies related to digital consumer psychology, platform governance, tourism marketing, and service innovation, underscoring its relevance to both industry practitioners and academic scholars. Dr. Chen’s work also plays an important societal and policy role by offering evidence-based insights that enhance cultural tourism development, inform government decision-making, and support the sustainable growth of China’s tourism ecosystem. With a strong commitment to methodological rigor and applied research, he aims to advance the global understanding of tourism behavior while promoting innovative approaches that improve service standards, strengthen the competitiveness of tourism industries, and contribute positively to the broader field of hospitality and tourism management.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

Chen, D., Zhang, W., Lian, M., Ma, P., & Xu, J. (2025). Hosts’ facial affinity in peer‑to‑peer platforms: Scale development and validation. Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Management. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhtm.2025.101339 

Chen, D., Zhang, W., Bi, J.-W., Qiu, H., & Lyu, J. (2024). Hosts’ online affinities and their impacts on the number of online reviews on peer-to-peer platforms. Tourism Management, 100, 104817. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tourman.2023.104817 ScienceDirect+1

Qiu, H., Chen, D., Yang, J., Zhang, K., & Liu, T. (2024). Tourism collaboration evaluation and research directions. Tourism Recreation Research, 49(2), 431–438. https://doi.org/10.1080/02508281.2021.2023838 Taylor & Francis Online+1

Chen, D., & Bi, J.-W. (2022). Cue congruence effects of attribute performance and hosts’ service quality attributes on room sales on peer-to-peer accommodation platforms. International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management. https://doi.org/10.1108/ijchm-10-2021-1275 ResearchGate+1

Qiu, H., Chen, D., Lyu, J., He, H., & Li, C. (2021). Affinity-seeking strategies of homestay hosts: Scale development and validation. Journal of Hospitality and Tourism Management. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhtm.2021.09.008

Laith Tashtoush | Business Administration | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Laith Tashtoush | Business Administration | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer | Near East University | Turkey

Assist. Prof. Dr. Laith Tashtoush is a distinguished academic and researcher in the field of Business Administration, currently serving as an Assistant Professor at Near East University, Cyprus. He holds a Ph.D. in Business Administration (2020) from Near East University, following a Master’s (2008) from Al-Albayt University and a Bachelor’s (2003) from Mu’tah University, Jordan. His professional journey reflects a strong commitment to advancing knowledge in human resource management, organizational behavior, leadership studies, and innovation management. Dr. Tashtoush has guided numerous master’s students on topics ranging from artificial intelligence in marketing, sustainability, ethical leadership, to globalization and entrepreneurship, demonstrating his mentorship and leadership in academic research. His scholarly contributions include several publications in SSCI and Scopus-indexed journals, such as Sustainability, SAGE Open, and the South African Journal of Business Management, where he explores themes like servant leadership, organizational trust, human capital, and relationship marketing. His research interests focus on linking strategic HR practices, innovation capability, and organizational performance, integrating both theoretical and applied perspectives. Skilled in quantitative and qualitative research methods, data analytics, and conceptual model development, he effectively bridges academic inquiry with managerial practice. Dr. Tashtoush’s dedication to research excellence has earned him recognition within the international scholarly community. His career reflects a pursuit of impactful, interdisciplinary scholarship that advances sustainable organizational development and global management practices—positioning him as a dynamic and influential voice in contemporary business research.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

  • Eyupoglu, S. Z., & Tashtoush, L. (2020). The relationship between human resource management practices and organisational citizenship behaviour. South African Journal of Business Management, 51(1), 1–11. Cited by: 31

  • Tashtoush, L. (2021). The role of information systems capabilities as a driving force in enhancing organizational performance. Journal of Information Systems and Informatics, 3(2), 303–328.  Cited by: 23

  • Tashtoush, L. (2021). The effect of social media on consumer buying behavior in commercial banks. Saudi Journal of Business and Management Studies, 6(2), 28–38. Cited by: 23

  • Harb, H. K., Eyupoglu, S. Z., & Tashtoush, L. (2023). The relationship between administrative empowerment and organizational commitment: The mediating role of job satisfaction amongst academic staff in higher education. SAGE Open, 13(4), 21582440231218229. Cited by: 9

  • Tashtoush, L. (2022). The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the relationship between supply chain strategy and organizational performance. Asian Journal of Economics, Finance and Management, 7(1), 1–17. Cited by: 3

Aspasia Chita | Business, Management and Accounting | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Aspasia Chita | Business, Management and Accounting | Best Researcher Award

Head of Civilian Personnel Office of Hellenic Police in Thessaly at International hellenic university, Greece

Mrs. Aspasia Chita is an accomplished professional with expertise in human resource management, public administration, and communication. She holds a Master’s in Public Administration from the International Hellenic University, an MA in International Journalism, and a BA in Journalism, Film, and Broadcasting from Cardiff University. With extensive experience in personnel management at the Hellenic Ministry of Citizen Protection and past roles in journalism, communication consulting, and asylum case evaluation, she combines analytical research with practical governance insights. Aspasia has presented academic work on public sector innovation and institutional communication at international conferences, reflecting her commitment to research and knowledge dissemination. Additionally, she holds certifications in mentoring, HR development, and training. Recognized for her analytical skills, organizational expertise, and research contributions, she continues to bridge academia and practice in public administration. Her dedication to innovation and communication in governance makes her a valuable asset in both academic and professional circles.

Professional Profile 

Education

Mrs. Aspasia Chita has a strong academic background with degrees and certifications spanning journalism, public administration, and human resource management. She holds a Master’s in Public Administration from the International Hellenic University and a Master of Arts in International Journalism from the University of Wales, Cardiff. Additionally, she earned a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Journalism, Film, and Broadcasting from Cardiff University. To further enhance her expertise, she has obtained specialized certifications, including Human Resource Development Consulting, Mentoring in Public Administration, and Training of Trainers from the National Centre for Public Administration and Local Government in Greece. Her educational journey reflects a commitment to continuous learning, blending media and communication expertise with public sector administration and human resource development. This diverse educational foundation equips her with the necessary skills to analyze, manage, and innovate within complex organizational structures, making her a highly knowledgeable professional in her field.

Professional Experience

Mrs. Aspasia Chita has extensive professional experience in human resource management, public administration, journalism, and communication. Since 2014, she has served as the Head of the Civilian Personnel Office at the Hellenic Ministry of Citizen Protection, overseeing personnel management for multiple police directorates in Thessaly. Previously, she worked as an International Protection Case Officer at the Asylum Service, conducting interviews and research on asylum applications. Her experience also includes roles as an Administrative & Financial Officer at the Hellenic Agricultural Insurance Organization, where she acted as a journalist and communication consultant, and as a Journalism Instructor at IEK AKMI. Additionally, she has taught English and served as a faculty member at the National Centre for Public Administration and Local Government. Her career reflects a dynamic blend of administrative leadership, policy research, and media expertise, making her a well-rounded professional with a strong impact in both governance and communication.

Research Interest

Mrs. Aspasia Chita’s research interests lie at the intersection of public administration, institutional communication, human resource management, and innovation in governance. She is particularly focused on exploring how digital transformation and communication channels can enhance efficiency, adaptability, and transparency in public sector organizations. Her recent research examines the role of organizational culture in fostering innovation, advocating for a human-centered approach to public administration reform. Additionally, she has a strong interest in policy development, personnel management strategies, and leadership in public institutions, emphasizing the importance of effective communication in decision-making processes. Her academic work, including a refereed conference paper on digital innovation in public administration, demonstrates her commitment to bridging theory with practical governance solutions. By integrating media, technology, and management studies, she aims to contribute to the modernization of public institutions and enhance their responsiveness to contemporary challenges in administration and policy implementation.

Award and Honor

Mrs. Aspasia Chita has been recognized for her contributions to public administration, communication, and human resource management through various academic and professional achievements. She has received endorsements from esteemed scholars, including Professor Karin Wahl-Jorgensen, who praised her analytical skills, dedication to research, and expertise in international journalism and public administration. Her work has been acknowledged through her participation in prestigious academic conferences, such as the 1st International Conference on Public Administration, where she presented a refereed paper on digital innovation in governance. Additionally, her role as a faculty member at the National Centre for Public Administration and Local Government highlights her influence in shaping public sector training and development. While formal awards are not explicitly mentioned in her profile, her academic credentials, leadership roles, and research contributions demonstrate a high level of professional recognition and respect in her field, reinforcing her status as a distinguished researcher and public administrator.

Research Skill

Mrs. Aspasia Chita possesses strong research skills in the fields of public administration, human resource management, and institutional communication. She has demonstrated expertise in policy analysis, qualitative research, and data interpretation, particularly in examining organizational culture and digital innovation in governance. Her ability to conduct in-depth research is evident in her work as an International Protection Case Officer, where she performed Country of Origin Information (COI) research and drafted asylum application reports. Additionally, her academic contributions, including a refereed conference paper on innovation in public administration, showcase her proficiency in critical analysis, academic writing, and knowledge dissemination. Aspasia’s multidisciplinary background in journalism and public administration enables her to integrate diverse research methodologies, enhancing the practical impact of her studies. Her ability to synthesize complex information, develop strategic insights, and present findings effectively makes her a highly skilled researcher in both academic and professional settings.

Conclusion

Aspasia Chita demonstrates strong research capabilities in public administration, communication, and human resource management. Her academic background, professional experience, and conference contributions indicate a well-rounded researcher with practical impact. However, to solidify her position as a leading researcher, she may need to expand her published work and participate in more international collaborations.

Publications Top Noted

  • Author: Chita, Aspasia
  • Year: 2025
  • Title: The Digital Revolution at the Service of Public Action: Managing by Creating Communication Channels of Innovation
  • Publication Type: Conference paper
  • Date of Publication: March 5, 2025
  • DOI: 10.3390/proceedings2024111011
  • Conference: 1st International Conference on Public Administration
  • Research Focus: Innovation in public administration through digital communication channels.

 

Sarmad Ejaz | Business, Management and Accounting | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Sarmad Ejaz | Business, Management and Accounting | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at University of Okara, Pakistan

Sarmad Ejaz is a dedicated and methodical researcher and educator from Pakistan with a strong academic background, holding a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from the University of the Punjab. He currently serves as a Research Assistant in Finance at the University of Okara and as a Visiting Lecturer in the Department of Management Sciences at the same institution. Sarmad has an impressive track record of published research in high-impact journals, focusing on topics such as sustainability, Islamic work ethics, and green behavior. He has presented his research at multiple international conferences, demonstrating his commitment to both academic growth and global collaboration. His work is characterized by a collaborative approach, with several co-authored papers alongside international scholars. With a passion for teaching and research, Sarmad continues to develop professionally, contributing significantly to his field.

Professional Profile

Education

Sarmad Ejaz completed his higher education at the University of the Punjab, Lahore, where he earned a Master of Commerce (M.Com) with honors, achieving a CGPA of 3.2. Prior to that, he completed his Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) with honors, securing a CGPA of 3.12. Throughout his academic journey, Sarmad has focused on the fields of commerce, finance, and management, building a solid foundation in business studies that has supported his research and professional endeavors. His education, combined with practical experience, has enabled him to make meaningful contributions to both academia and industry.

Professional Experience

Sarmad Ejaz has a diverse professional background that spans research, teaching, and administration. He currently works as a Research Assistant in Finance at the University of Okara, where he contributes to academic research and supports the development of financial studies. Additionally, Sarmad serves as a Visiting Lecturer in the Department of Management Sciences at the same university, where he imparts knowledge in business and management disciplines to students. Before his academic roles, he gained experience as an Office Assistant at International Electroplating (PVT) Limited from 2014 to 2019, where he handled administrative responsibilities. His work experience reflects a strong commitment to both research and education, along with the ability to adapt and excel in various professional settings.

Research Interest

Sarmad Ejaz’s research interests lie primarily in the fields of finance, business management, and sustainability. His work explores topics such as green human resource management, sustainable business practices, and the impact of Islamic work ethics on organizational behavior. He is particularly interested in examining how sustainability practices influence firm performance and how environmental strategies can be integrated into business operations. Sarmad also investigates the intersection of corporate social responsibility, employee behavior, and organizational outcomes, focusing on the role of green behavior and leadership in driving environmental performance. His research aims to contribute to both academic knowledge and practical solutions for sustainable business development.

Award and Honor

While Sarmad Ejaz’s profile does not explicitly mention specific awards or honors, his notable achievements in academia, including a robust publication record in high-impact journals and presentations at international conferences, demonstrate his recognition and respect within the academic community. His contributions to research in sustainability, business management, and green practices have positioned him as a promising scholar in his field. His active involvement in various workshops, professional organizations like the American Marketing Association and the American Management Association, and successful collaborative efforts with international researchers also highlight his commitment to professional excellence, further solidifying his reputation as an emerging expert in his areas of research.

Conclusion

Sarmad Ejaz shows substantial potential for the Best Researcher Award based on his strong publication record, commitment to research and education, and active participation in academic communities. His contributions to sustainability, environmental , and business ethics are particularly noteworthy. With further emphasis on increasing his impact through higher-tier journal publications and enhancing citation metrics, he could solidify his standing as a leading researcher in his field. Therefore, he is a promising candidate for this award, with significant achievements already and ample room for growth.

Publications Top Noted

  • Title: How Stock Prices Behave in Response to Institutional Development: A Four-Factor Asset Pricing Model
    Authors: Hafeez, A., Jagirani, T.S., Hunt, A.K., Ejaz, S., Ejaz, F.
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 0
  • Title: Leveraging Loss Aversion and Self-Efficacy: The Role of Water Pricing and Risk in Driving Individual Innovation for Sustainable Water Consumption
    Authors: Sohu, J.M., Tian, H., Kherazi, F.Z., Ejaz, S., Hossain, M.B.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
  • Title: Social media usage and sustainable performance in manufacturing supply chains: exploring dynamic capabilities
    Authors: Basit, A., Javed, A., Ejaz, S., Ridwan, A.-R., Ahmed, S.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
  • Title: Sustainable Development Goals and Energy Poverty Reduction: Empirical Evidence from N11 Countries
    Authors: Raza, A., Khokhar, M., Ejaz, S., Júlia, F.Z., Hossain, M.B.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 1
  • Title: A Firm’s Market Performance: How Does Sustainability Practice Influence It?
    Authors: Babu, M.A., Ejaz, F., Lina, F.T., Hassan, M.K., Hossain, M.B.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
  • Title: Examining pro-environmental behavior through green human resource management and green innovation moderating role of environmental strategy
    Authors: Esponda Perez, J.A., Galindo, S.M., Farooq, M., Ahmed, S., Ejaz, F.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
  • Title: Supply chain integration and supply chain performance: evidence from the textile industry
    Authors: Junejo, I., Hossain, M.B., Abid, S., Ejaz, S., Vasa, L.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
  • Title: Factors Affecting on Environmental Strategy in SMEs manufacturing Firms of a developing country: Mediating role of Green Employee Behavior
    Authors: Junejo, I., Saraih, U.N., Perez, J.A.E., Ejaz, F., Hossain, M.B.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
  • Title: Green synergy: unveiling the nexus of green supply chain practices, training and innovation for sustainable manufacturing
    Authors: Javed, A., Li, Q., Ejaz, S., Zita Júlia, F., Hossain, M.B.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 1
  • Title: Examining the impact of Islamic work ethics on employee voice behavior: mediating effect of felt obligation for constructive change and moderating role of sanctification of work
    Authors: Rubbab, U.-E., Irshad, M., Abid, S., Ejaz, F., Hossain, M.B.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0