ATLANTA, Ga. (Diya TV) — Emory University has selected Indian American academic leader Saby Mitra as the next dean of the Goizueta Business School. The appointment takes effect Aug. 1.

Mitra will succeed Gareth James, who is leaving Emory on July 1 to become dean of the UCLA Anderson School of Management.

A respected expert in business analytics, information systems, and technology leadership, Mitra brings decades of experience in higher education. University leaders say his record of innovation and collaboration made him a strong choice to lead one of the nation’s top business schools.

Mitra currently serves as dean of the Warrington College of Business at the University of Florida. He has held that role since 2020. During his time at Warrington, he led major growth across academic programs, fundraising efforts, and alumni engagement. He also expanded the school’s focus on artificial intelligence and technology-driven education.

University officials said Mitra helped launch new graduate degree programs and strengthen online learning opportunities. His efforts increased access to education while supporting student success.

Under his leadership, Warrington’s online bachelor’s degree program earned the No. 1 national ranking from U.S. News & World Report. The school’s online MBA program ranked No. 5 in the country. Those achievements helped strengthen Warrington’s reputation as a leader in business education.

Before joining the University of Florida, Mitra spent 27 years at Georgia Tech’s Scheller College of Business. During that time, he held several senior leadership roles. He helped create interdisciplinary programs that connected business, technology, and health care. He also supported experiential learning opportunities that gave students practical skills and real-world experience.

Mitra has built a national reputation through his research and leadership. His academic work focuses on business analytics, information security management, IT governance, and platform ecosystems. His expertise comes at a time when business schools are increasing investments in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data-driven decision-making.

Emory Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Badia Ahad praised Mitra’s leadership style and strategic thinking. Ahad said Mitra has demonstrated the ability to guide large academic organizations through periods of change and growth. She also highlighted his collaborative approach and commitment to innovation.

Higher education institutions across the United States continue to face rapid changes driven by technology, shifting workforce needs, and evolving student expectations. Emory leaders believe Mitra’s experience will help position the Goizueta Business School for future success.

Mitra expressed excitement about joining Emory and leading the Goizueta Business School. He said the school already holds a strong reputation for academic excellence and research. He also said it has the potential to become one of the world’s leading business schools.

“Ever since my many years at Georgia Tech Scheller College of Business, just down the road from Emory, I have always held Emory University and Goizueta Business School in high regard,” Mitra said. His familiarity with Atlanta’s academic community could help ease the transition into his new position.

Mitra’s educational background reflects his long-standing commitment to business and technology. He earned a doctorate from the University of Iowa’s Tippie College of Business. He also holds a Bachelor of Technology degree from the Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, one of India’s most prestigious engineering institutions.

His appointment adds another accomplished Indian American leader to the ranks of prominent U.S. university administrators. As dean, Mitra will oversee academic programs, faculty development, research initiatives, and student success efforts at Goizueta Business School. He will also play a key role in shaping the school’s long-term strategy.