Naomi Haefner

Naomi Haefner is Professor of Artificial Intelligence and Innovation. Her research examines how artificial intelligence is reshaping innovation strategy, organizational design, and leadership decision-making.  

Her work bridges rigorous academic insight with practical application. As a researcher, educator, and advisor, she designs and delivers executive education programs for board members, senior leaders, and public-sector innovators navigating complex technological change. Her approach integrates frameworks that equip leaders to respond to fast-moving developments with structure and impact.  

Haefner’s work has been published in leading journals such as Entrepreneurship Theory and Practice and Technological Forecasting and Social Change. Her paper, Artificial intelligence and innovation management: A review, framework, and research agenda, has been ranked among the top 1% most cited research articles in the social sciences according to the Web of Science. 

In addition, she has co-authored pedagogical tools including a Harvard Business School case study on strategic resilience, supporting leaders in building adaptive and future-ready organizations.  

She is a regular speaker on topics including AI strategy, business model innovation, and the future of institutions. 

Prior to joining IMD in 2026, Haefner was Assistant Professor of Technology Management at the University of St. Gallen.  She was affiliated with the Global Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (GCEI-HSG) and the Institute of Technology Management (ITEM-HSG), where she led the Emerging Technologies Lab. The lab examines and assesses emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence and machine learning, and their implications for on innovation, strategic decision-making, new venture creation, business models, and business opportunities.