Ambrose University Reappoints Dr. Murray MacTavish as Dean of the Ambrose School of Business

Ambrose University reappoints Dr. Murray MacTavish as Dean of the Ambrose School of Business 

September 12, 2025 – Calgary, Alberta – Ambrose University is pleased to announce the reappointment of Dr. Murray MacTavish as Dean of the Ambrose School of Business. Since joining Ambrose in 2020, Dr. MacTavish has been instrumental in launching and shaping the School of Business into a vibrant, growing academic community, distinguished by its commitment to values-based leadership, business competence, and innovative learning.

Dr. MacTavish’s leadership has been transformational. In 2022, he oversaw the official launch of the School of Business, following a comprehensive review and modernization of the core business curriculum. This included the introduction of new courses in Innovative & Entrepreneurial Thinking, Business Ethics & Sustainability, and Strategic Human Resource Management. He also spearheaded enhancements to the data analytics program, adding industry-relevant tools such as Python, R, SQL, Power BI, and advanced Excel applications.

Under his direction, the School of Business has seen record-breaking enrolments, welcoming the largest incoming classes each year from Fall 2021 through Fall 2024. In Fall 2024, the School moved into its dedicated new Business building, providing students with a modern, collaborative space for learning, innovation, and community engagement.

“Murray has been a visionary leader for the Ambrose School of Business,” says Dr. Bryce Ashlin-Mayo, President of Ambrose University. “He has not only built strong academic programs that prepare students for the evolving demands of the workplace, but he has also fostered a culture of character, innovation, and service. His reappointment ensures continued growth and excellence.”

A globally minded educator and researcher, Dr. MacTavish brings more than 30 years of teaching, research, and academic leadership experience. His career has taken him to more than 40 countries, including over 50 trips to China to lead MBA programs and lecture at prestigious universities. His expertise spans global leadership development, values-based leadership, cross-cultural education, and transformative teaching practices.

Before joining Ambrose, Dr. MacTavish served as Associate Professor of Leadership & International Development at Trinity Western University, where he also held multiple leadership roles, including Director of MBA Programs and Director of the Great Wall MBA Program in China. His work there saw enrolment growth from 17 students to more than 200, and expansion to five campuses in Canada and China.

Dr. MacTavish’s passion for experiential and cross-cultural learning has led him to organize and lead numerous international study programs, including business courses across Europe, and in Kenya, Uganda, China. He has also partnered with students to deliver consulting projects for NGOs and businesses across Africa, and North America—work that has had tangible impact in areas such as community development, microfinance, and social entrepreneurship.

His research continues to focus on developing leaders of character who are equipped to serve their communities and the world. Current projects include the Flourishing Agency study, conducted with colleagues in psychology, which explores the role of mentoring and strengths-based education in student resilience and performance.

Reflecting on his reappointment, Dr. MacTavish shared:

“It has been a privilege to work alongside dedicated faculty, staff, and students to build the Ambrose School of Business. Our vision has always been to develop highly skilled leaders of character who bring integrity, innovation, and service into the marketplace. I am excited for the opportunities ahead as we continue to grow our programs, expand our partnerships, and invest in our students’ success.”

As Ambrose University looks to the future, the reappointment of Dr. MacTavish signals stability and momentum for the School of Business. With his continued leadership, Ambrose will build on its strong foundation—expanding opportunities for students, strengthening ties with industry and community partners, and shaping graduates who are prepared to lead with both competence and character.

About Ambrose University

Ambrose University offers accredited undergraduate and graduate programs in arts, sciences, education, business, and ministry. Rooted in Christian conviction and committed to academic excellence, Ambrose prepares students for lives of service in every corner of society.