Study on social responsibility earns WBS researcher top prize

A Warwick Business School doctoral researcher has won a landmark prize for her study into corporate social responsibility. 

Jeongsun Park, who is in the final year of her PhD, has been awarded the Michael Z. Brooke Prize for Best Doctoral Paper at the 51st Academy of International Business (AIB) UK & Ireland Chapter Conference, held at Surrey Business School.  

Her winning paper, titled Do ‘Good’ Firms Acquire ‘Better’? Corporate Social Responsibility and Cross-border Mergers and Acquisitions Success, explores the intersection of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and international business strategy, offering fresh insights into how ethical practices influence acquisition outcomes. 

The Michael Z. Brooke Prize is awarded annually to the most outstanding doctoral paper presented at the AIB UK & Ireland Chapter Conference, one of the most respected gatherings of international business scholars in the country.  

Judges pick the winning research on originality, methodological rigour, and practical relevance. 

“I am honoured to have received this recognition,” said Jeongsun, who also picked up a cheque for £200. “This achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering support of Warwick Business School and, in particular, my supervisors. I’m deeply grateful to Professor Irina Surdu-Nadella and Dr Hossam Zeitoun for their guidance, encouragement, and belief in my work.” 

Her paper investigates whether firms with strong CSR reputations are more successful in executing cross-border mergers and acquisitions.  

Drawing on a robust dataset, Jeongsun demonstrates that socially responsible firms are not only more likely to acquire high-performing targets but also more likely to achieve post-acquisition success. 

Professor Surdu-Nadella, a leading scholar in international business strategy, praised the award as a testament to Park’s dedication and intellectual curiosity.  

“Jeongsun has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to producing research that is both academically rigorous and socially meaningful,” she said. “Her work challenges conventional thinking and opens up new avenues for understanding how CSR can shape strategic decision-making in global markets.” 

How does CSR influence innovation?

Dr Zeitoun, an expert in corporate governance and strategic leadership, added: “This award is richly deserved. Jeongsun’s research is a fine example of how doctoral work can contribute to both scholarly debates and real-world business practices. We are incredibly proud of her achievement.”  

Jeongsun hopes to expand her research into how CSR influences other dimensions of international business, including strategic alliances and innovation.  

And after completing an MSc International Business degree at WBS before taking up her PhD, Jeongsun acknowledged the School’s role in helping her participate in the conference. 

“WBS has been instrumental in supporting my academic journey,” she said. “From funding my attendance at the conference to providing a vibrant research environment, I’m truly thankful for the opportunities I’ve had here.” 

Further reading:

Worthy suitor? How ESG can ease takeover deals

Discover Warwick Business School's Change Makers.