Personal profile
Biography
Dr. Umer Iqbal is an accomplished academic and practitioner in the field of accounting and finance, with over 16 years of experience across academia and industry. Currently serving as an Assistant Professor at Northumbria University, he brings a wealth of expertise in corporate finance, financial reporting, and environmental accounting, blending practical insights with academic rigor.
Academic Background
Dr. Iqbal earned his PhD in Accounting and Finance from Lincoln University, New Zealand, where his thesis explored firm and country-specific determinants of corporate cash holdings. He also holds a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation from the UK, along with advanced degrees in finance and business administration.
His academic journey is complemented by certifications in business analytics and a sustained commitment to interdisciplinary learning, evidenced by his participation in prestigious conferences and workshops globally.
Research Interests and Contributions
Dr. Iqbal's research focuses on pivotal areas such as:
- Corporate governance and financial sustainability.
- Environmental innovation and firm performance.
- Economic policy uncertainty and its impact on financial decision-making.
His work has been featured in leading academic journals, including the Journal of Environmental Management and Business Strategy and the Environment. Dr. Iqbal is particularly known for his contributions to understanding the role of board dynamics in eco-innovation and the financial implications of policy uncertainty.
Teaching Philosophy and Practice
An enthusiastic educator, Dr. Iqbal teaches undergraduate and postgraduate courses in financial accounting, corporate finance, financial modeling, and business research methods. His teaching philosophy emphasizes fostering critical thinking and equipping students with practical skills to navigate complex financial landscapes.
Professional and Academic Leadership
Dr. Iqbal has held various leadership roles, including program management, research ethics oversight, and contributions to accreditation initiatives with global bodies like ACCA and NBEAC. He has supervised numerous theses and final-year projects, guiding students to excel in both academic and professional pursuits.
Engagement and Memberships
A firm believer in bridging academia and industry, Dr. Iqbal actively collaborates with professional organizations, including the American Finance Association and the Accounting and Finance Association of Australia and New Zealand. His consultancy work has involved advising firms on sustainable financial practices and strategic decision-making.
Vision
Dr. Umer Iqbal is driven by a vision to integrate sustainability into the core of financial and corporate decision-making. By combining robust research with impactful teaching, he aims to inspire the next generation of professionals to lead with integrity, innovation, and a commitment to global challenges.
Expertise related to UN Sustainable Development Goals
In 2015, UN member states agreed to 17 global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all. This person’s work contributes towards the following SDG(s):
Education/Academic qualification
Accounting and Finance, PhD, Lincoln University
2 Oct 2016 → 28 Feb 2020
Award Date: 28 Feb 2020
Financial Management, MPhil, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Institute of Science and Technology, Islamabad
1 Sept 2011 → 29 Mar 2013
Award Date: 29 Mar 2013
Business Administration, MBA, National University of Modern Languages
1 Sept 2008 → 28 Oct 2101
Award Date: 28 Oct 2011