This is the third masterclass from the SME@UTS 2022 series dedicated to helping SMEs access knowledge and expertise. Join your peers and leading experts to learn about techniques you can apply to tackle complex problems.

No matter what industry you’re in, you're bound to be working on some sort of problem or a challenge. This masterclass will introduce you to a structured approach to complex problem solving in the digital era, preparing you to add value in your current and future roles.

Delivered by an award-winning academic, A/Prof. Natalia Nikolova, in this masterclass you can expect to learn how to:

Apply structured thinking and planning tools to identify challenges
Improve your problem-solving skills as you learn about key tools for structured analysis
Construct and effectively communicate a strategic and persuasive argument for a specific audience

Watch a short video about complex problem-solving HERE.

About your presenter:

Associate Professor Natalia Nikolova is the Academic Director of the UTS Futures Academy. She has a PhD in economic and political sciences (Dr. rer. pol.) from the University of Cologne, Germany.

Before joining University of Technology Sydney Business School, Natalia was a visiting researcher at the Australian Graduate School of Management. Prior to that, she was a senior lecturer at the University of Cologne, Germany. Natalia's research interests are quite diverse including organisational practices, strategy, innovation and leadership. She is passionate about bringing insights from different disciplines to explore complex issues and phenomena.

Natalia has worked on several projects with industry partners, including Mirvac, the Royal Australian AirForce, Mercer, BAE Systems Australia, and Spencer Stuart. She has published in academic journals and books and her work has been presented and recognised at a number of international conferences. She has extensive experience as an innovative educator and facilitator in business strategy, innovation, problem solving and leadership.

About SME@UTS

SME@UTS is designed to help SMEs confidently invest in innovation and digital technologies. This integrated program provides SMEs with a progressive and customised pathway towards technology adoption and innovation. This concierge style service helps SMEs gain access to innovation expertise, research capabilities and world class technology facilities that will allow them to underpin their business growth. This masterclass is one of many that will be delivered at no cost to attend as part of the SME@UTS program which is partly funded by the Commonwealth Department of Education, Skills and Employment.

About AMGC

The Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre (AMGC) was established in 2015 as a key plank of the Australian Government’s Industry Growth Centre Initiative. Its goal is to drive innovation, productivity and competitiveness across Australia’s manufacturing industry. AMGC is an industry-led, not-for-profit organisation and is run by a board and management team of industry experts. It is connected with a nationwide network of manufacturers, universities and research institutions, and export hubs. The Centre’s role is to share its respected research on how the industry can transform to become more advanced. AMGC puts its research into action by engaging with manufacturers and universities in high-impact projects and export hub opportunities. AMGC encourages likeminded manufacturers and research institutions to join its ranks. Membership is open and free of charge to those who care about developing a more globally competitive manufacturing sector.