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I am a Lecturer in International Human Resource Management at the University of Edinburgh Business School. Prior to joining Edinburgh in 2019, I worked at the University of St Andrews as an Associate Lecturer in Management. I obtained my PhD from Cardiff Business School.

My research centres on state-business relations, with a particular focus on the impact of geopolitics on international business. My research explores how geopolitical dynamics and state interventions shape the way multinational enterprises (MNEs) operate, manage their global workforce, and navigate regulatory landscapes. My current research projects explore questions such as: Are job seekers attracted to MNEs accused of posing national security threats? How do geopolitical tensions and government interventions shape local employees’ dual identity (national vs. organisational) in MNEs? Can CSR and local partnerships enhance MNEs’ legitimacy amid geopolitical risks? How do state-owned and privately owned enterprises differ in their responses to geopolitical challenges?

Beyond MNEs, I also investigate how state-business relations influence the strategies and behaviours of other types of organisations, including small businesses and non-profits. My research contributes to a better understanding of state-business relations, particularly the broader impact of geopolitics on international business and organisational life.

My recent publications on geopolitics, international business, and state-business relations:

• Lai, K., & Fortwengel, J. (2025) Constructing an organizational identity with political ideology: The case of Huawei, 1987-2020. Strategic Organization. (Accepted/In press). 
• Lai, K. (2021). National security and FDI policy ambiguity: A commentary. Journal of International Business Policy, 4(4), 496-505.
• Lai, K., Morgan, G., & Morris, J. (2020). ‘Eating bitterness’ in a Chinese multinational: Identity regulation in context. Organization Studies, 41(5), 661-680.

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• Geopolitics & international business
• Securitisation of foreign investments 
• Public policy
• Cross-sector partnerships
• Historical and archival research