Understanding the Harvard Business School Dean Appointment

The question asks to identify the individual who was appointed as the Dean of Harvard Business School (HBS) specifically in October 2020. This requires recalling a particular administrative change within a prominent educational institution.

Analyzing the Options for HBS Dean in October 2020

Let's look at the provided options:

• Sanjit Roy
• Nitin Nohria
• Srikant Datar
• Achyuta Samanta

Each option represents a notable individual, but only one was appointed to the position of Dean of Harvard Business School during the specified timeframe of October 2020.

Identifying the Correct Appointee

Research into the leadership changes at Harvard Business School confirms that a significant appointment was made in October 2020.

The person appointed as the Dean of Harvard Business School, effective January 1, 2021, but announced in October 2020, was Srikant Datar. He succeeded Nitin Nohria in this role. Srikant Datar is a distinguished faculty member at HBS with a long history at the institution.

Explanation of the Correct Answer

Srikant Datar was indeed named as the Dean of Harvard Business School in October 2020. His appointment was a significant event for the school, marking a transition in its leadership. Prior to becoming Dean, Srikant Datar held various important positions within HBS and is known for his expertise in areas like management control, design thinking, and innovation.

Examining Other Options

• Nitin Nohria: He was the preceding Dean of Harvard Business School, serving from 2010 to 2020. While related to the transition, he was the outgoing Dean, not the one appointed in October 2020.
• Sanjit Roy: Sanjit Roy is known for his work with The Barefoot College in India, focusing on sustainable development and empowering rural communities. His work is in a different field and institution.
• Achyuta Samanta: Achyuta Samanta is an Indian educationist and social activist, founder of KIIT and KISS in Odisha, India. His work is primarily focused on providing education to indigenous children.

Based on the records of Harvard Business School leadership appointments, Srikant Datar is the correct individual who was named Dean in October 2020.

Revision Table: Key HBS Dean Appointments

Additional Information on Harvard Business School Leadership

The Dean of Harvard Business School plays a crucial role in setting the strategic direction, managing operations, and representing the school globally. The selection process for such a prestigious position involves careful consideration of a candidate's academic contributions, leadership experience, and vision for the future of business education.

Srikant Datar's appointment was significant not only due to his internal promotion from within HBS but also his background and vision for adapting business education to the evolving global landscape and technological advancements.