Prof. Dr. Michael Gerlich Represents SBS Swiss Business School at Two Major International Conferences in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

SBS Swiss Business School is proud to share that Prof. Dr. Michael Gerlich, Head of the Center for Strategic Corporate Foresight and Sustainability, participated in two major global conferences in one week – delivering two different keynote speeches and joining high-level panel discussions in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

1. Future Innovation Summit, Dubai

From 10–13 November 2025, Prof. Dr. Gerlich delivered a keynote at the Future Innovation Summit at the Festival Arena in Dubai, an event featuring global leaders, innovators, and policymakers, including Angelina Jolie and Deeply Human Innovation founder Iliana Grosse-Büning.

His keynote, “AI Tools in Society: Impacts on the Future of Critical Thinking and the Role of Modern Human Development,” explored how artificial intelligence influences learning, decision-making, and human capability. He highlighted the growing tension between technological convenience and the need to preserve independent, critical thinking.

Prof. Dr. Gerlich also joined Iliana Grosse-Büning in a panel discussion on leadership and human development, offering insights to an international audience deeply engaged in the future of AI and society.

2. Future Talent Forum, Abu Dhabi (NYU Abu Dhabi)

During the same week, he also spoke at the Future Talent Forum, organized by the Future Talent Council and New York University Abu Dhabi at the NYU Abu Dhabi campus.

His second keynote, “Cognitive Offloading: AI at Work and the Human Costs of Convenience,” examined how AI-driven tools impact human performance, talent development, and the future workforce. He encouraged leaders to maintain a balance between technological efficiency and human capability.

Prof. Dr. Gerlich joined an additional panel discussion with Rob Henderson and Daniel Kjellsson on transformational leadership, based on a dataset of 30,000 C-suite assessments. The forum, hosted by the Future Talent Council, was marked by dynamic discussions and high participant engagement.

Why This Matters for SBS

Faculty participation in international summits strengthens SBS’s academic influence, expands global networks, and ensures that classroom learning reflects the latest global developments. These engagements provide SBS students with up-to-date insights, global perspectives, and connections that enhance their academic and professional growth.

Prof. Dr. Gerlich’s contributions in Dubai and Abu Dhabi highlight SBS’s commitment to preparing future leaders for an increasingly complex and technology-driven world.


by SBS Swiss Business School Team

Don’t miss the highlights of our SBS Faculty on the global stage – what an unforgettable week!
🎬 [Watch the reel here!]