Profile: Elad Granot
Name: Dr. Elad Granot
Current Job: Dean, Dauch College of Business and Economics - Ashland University
Current City: Ashland
Hometown: New York City
Q: What is it that you do at Ashland?
The business school at Ashland University is home to 1,300 students, split evenly between the undergrads and the MBAs. Our MBA program is one of the largest in the state, and offers a one-of-a-kind MBA program.
It's a one year, weekend program offered in Columbus, Cleveland and online and includes TWO international study tours. Our undergrads operate a $1.5 million student managed investment fund out of a Bloomberg trading room, as well as a venture capital fund. My motto as an academic leader is learning by doing!
Q: What’s a problem that you are working to solve?
No matter what career a young person aspires to, there are three truths: First, an academic degree will provide an opportunity to earn more and achieve more over their lifetime. Second, in an ever increasing global economy, international experience will become mandatory. Third, the jobs of the future don't exist yet.
Therefor, it's important to learn how to think and be able to increasingly do more synthesis than analysis. My mission is to prepare young people for all three by affording them access to an academic degree with an opportunity to travel abroad, all while firmly rooted in a liberal arts foundation.
Q: What’s a lesson you’ve learned that has helped shaped your work?
Lead from the front. A leader cannot stand back and direct their team from behind.
Q: What’s a trend in technology or innovation that you believe doesn’t get enough attention?
Manufacturing; it ain't what it used to be. Long gone are the days of greasy shop floors and low tech/low skill jobs. Manufacturing jobs are now tech jobs. AI, industry 4.0, Blockchain, and cyber skills are the future of manufacturing, and Ohio is positioned to benefit from this.
Q: What’s a recent book, podcast or news story that you found interesting?
I'm Currently reading Chutzpah: Why Israel Is a Hub of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, by my friend Inbal Arieli. It is fascinating how a nation with very few natural resources and in constant conflict has been able to become a global tech power.
Turns out it has a lot to do with attitude. Something for us Ohioans (especially the ones passionate about the transformative regional power of tech) to be inspired by and learn from.
Q: What's your favorite place in Ohio?
The eastern suburbs of Cleveland. The diversity which creates an amazing tapestry of sights, architecture, cuisines, art and nature is unbeatable.
Q: What makes Ohio special to you?
My family and I moved to Ohio in 2006 from Massachusetts. We raised our kids here and have become deeply involved in the region’s social, business, philanthropic and athletic communities. We have made friendships that are as deep as family. This is a great place to live!
Connect with Elad Granot on LinkedIn.