Dr. Melissa Edwards

Biography

Associate Professor Melissa Edwards is an award-winning researcher and educator with over 15 years of experience focused on social impact and sustainability. Her applied research investigates how individuals and organizations respond to complex sustainability challenges through leadership, strategic action, and business model innovation. Recent studies by Associate Professor Edwards have centered on stakeholder capitalism, circular economy, and ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) disclosures and reporting, as well as sustainable investment. She collaborates with various organizations across multiple sectors, leading research projects for Surf Life Saving Australia, Wayside Chapel, and Slyp RACE 2030, and has received numerous Commonwealth grants. Edwards has published in various professional and academic journals, including Organisation & Environment, Australian Journal of Management, and Business Strategy and the Environment. With extensive experience in innovative curriculum design, she incorporates interdisciplinary and experiential learning approaches to foster sustainability and social impact within business leadership development programs. Prior to her role at UNSW, she served as the Executive MBA Director and Research Director at the Centre for Business and Sustainable Development at UTS Business School. She is also the Inaugural Climate Action Fellow for the Australian Business Deans Council, leading a national action plan to enhance collective impact among 38 member schools in education, research, and operational efforts.

Research Interests

Experience