RAMP Faculty
The Faculty Who Teach the Rice Advanced Management Program (RAMP)
The faculty guiding RAMP combine world-class research and hands-on executive experience with a talent for teaching that inspires and challenges. They’ll push you to think differently, stretch your perspective, and equip you with the insights and guidance to achieve your leadership goals.
Prashant Kale, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Strategic Management
A global authority on strategic alliances and corporate growth, Kale combines rigorous scholarship with hands-on corporate advising. Named one of Bloomberg Businessweek’s “Top 10 Business School Professors,” he guides RAMP participants through high-impact growth strategy and transformation. Learn more about his background here.
Vikas Mittal, Ph.D.
J. Hugh Liedtke Professor of Marketing and Faculty Director of the Center for Customer Based Execution & Strategy
A leading thinker in customer-centric strategy and stakeholder alignment, Mittal equips leaders with tools to drive growth through data-informed decision-making. His frameworks help executives enhance value creation across markets, sectors and internal functions. Learn more about his background or hear about his research on the Owl Have You Know podcast.
Brian Rountree, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Accounting and Accounting Area Coordinator
An expert in financial analysis and valuation, Rountree translates complex financial information into executive-ready insights. He empowers RAMP participants to make confident, performance-based decisions in strategic and boardroom contexts. Read more about Rountree here.
Brent Smith, Ph.D.
Senior Associate Dean for Executive Education and Associate Professor of Management and Psychology
A nationally recognized expert in leadership and organizational change, Smith blends behavioral science with practical leadership tools. He is a trusted advisor to Fortune 500 firms and major public institutions, helping senior leaders lead with purpose. Learn more about Smith here.
James Weston, Ph.D.
Senior Associate Dean for Degree Programs and Harmon Whittington Professor of Finance
With deep expertise in capital markets, M&A and financial strategy, Weston brings cutting-edge insight into how financial decisions shape enterprise value. His sessions are highly practical, equipping executives to navigate complexity and lead with financial clarity. Continue reading about Weston’s research and background.
Jing Zhou, Ph.D.
Deputy Dean of Academic Affairs and Mary Gibbs Jones Professor of Management and Psychology
One of the most cited scholars in organizational creativity and innovation, Zhou helps leaders unlock innovation through culture, feedback and leadership behavior. Her global reputation and engaging teaching style make her a powerful voice in RAMP’s innovation component. Learn more about Zhou here.
Hear From Our Faculty
Before you step into the classroom, get to know some of our faculty on the award-winning Rice Business podcast, Owl Have You Know.
Explore Our RAMP Program
We’re here to answer any questions you may have and help you explore whether RAMP is the right fit. Reach out to our team or complete our form to request information.