The Department of Management Studies is pleased to present its “First International Management Conference” held in Barbados March 26th to March 28th, 2006. The Head of the Department, Professor B. J. Punnett initiated the idea that the Department of Management Studies host a Management Conference, and encouraged the creation of the committee that organized the Conference and oversaw its successful completion. The Conference Committee has taken on the bulk of the work, but all Department members have supported these efforts, and the Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences has provided encouragement and resources to make the conference a reality. In addition the broader community has provided encouragement and sponsorship for the Conference.

The objectives for the Conference were twofold. First, we determined to initiate a gathering of colleagues and fellow academics, from around the world, to address managerial issues that affect competitiveness in small states. We wanted to consider issues intrinsic in new techniques, innovation in management, entrepreneurship and accountability, as well as sustainability and ethics. We also wanted to provide the impetus for future conferences, and we hope that this will be the first of many well placed conferences and discussions on new managerial thought, theory and methodology.

The second objective focused on the unique needs of the Caribbean and its scattered, small economies. The theme of “kickstarting small island competitiveness” was seen as appropriate to the current needs of the region. We believe the presentations and deliberations that flow from the Conference will serve well to direct thinking at all organizational levels toward a more competitive and successful strategy within the Caricom Single Market and Economy, as well as the greater global community. We also hope that this conference will encourage cohesion among economies in the region to create a community system that will make its mark within the larger international business environment.

The University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus welcomes all participants and encourages all who attend to enjoy the sessions, to engage freely in debate and to contribute to a stimulating academic and business discourse.

The Conference Committee

Philmore Alleyne
Ken Blawatt
Sherma Roberts
Nicole Knight Arthur
Jackie Harper
Denise Reid-Husbands
Dwayne Devonish