Dr. Maria Gradillas
Summary
My research focuses on two main areas: technological change and sustainable development. In the area of technological change, I am interested in the processes that support successful innovation, particularly in a digital context. In the sustainability area, I investigate how organizations improve their environmental, social and governance performance through strategic practices, technological innovation, and new business models.
I am a Co-founder of Vital Designs, a start-up that uses digital technologies and recycled materials to create designs with reduced environmental impact.
I hold a PhD in innovation and entrepreneurship from Imperial College Business School and an MSc in Environmental Technology from Imperial College. Before becoming an academic, I worked in the finance industry.
Research Interests
Digital innovation, sustainability, institutional entrepreneurship, technology startups, collaboration strategies, innovation ecosystems
Selected publications and conference contributions
- Gradillas, M. & Thomas, L. D. W. (2023). Distinguishing digitization and digitalization: A systematic review and conceptual framework. Journal of Product and Innovation Management. external page https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jpim.12690
- Castro, A., & Gradillas Garcia, M. (2022). Insights Into Succesful ESG Implementation in Organizations. Journal of Financial Transformation, 56, 168-176.
- Gradillas Garcia, M., Castro, A., & Salandra, R. (2021) Understanding the adoption of voluntary environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards in the real estate sector. Report. The Bartlett School of Sustainable Construction. @external page https://iris.ucl.ac.uk/iris/publication/1906391/1
- Gradillas Garcia, M. (2019) The Role of Collective Actors in Emerging Industries: The Development of Smart Grids in the UK. Annual Meeting Proceedings: Boston 2019. Academy of Management Proceedings. @external page https://doi.org/10.5465/AMBPP.2019.17229abstract
- Arapostathis, S., Carlsson-Hyslop, A., Pearson, P. J., Thornton, J., Gradillas, M., Laczay, S., & Wallis, S. (2013). Governing transitions: Cases and insights from two periods in the history of the UK gas industry. Energy Policy, 52, 25-44.
Teaching
- Scaling New Ventures & Sustainable Business Models (within the CAS ELTV)