Integrating Zero-Waste Management into Corporate Governance: An Application of the MER Model of Integral Management and Governance

Maribor, Slovenia. E-mail: matic.cufar@student.um.si

Prof. Dr. Jernej Belak is the Vice-Dean for lnternational Cooperation at the Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Maribor (FEB UM), and a Full Professor of Corporate Governance and Strategic Management. He is also the Head of the Master's Specialization Strategic and Project Management and actively participates in the development of several international study programs and partnerships. His academic work spans teaching at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels, supervising master's and doctoral students, and leading curricular development in the fields of governance, strategic management, credibility, and corporate culture. He has significantly contributed to the integration of the MER Model of Integral Management into academic programs, research activities, and international collaborations. Prof. Dr. Belak's research focuses on corporate governance, strategic management, business ethics, credibility, and organizational culture. He is the author and co-author of scientific monographs, book chapters, and peer-reviewed articles, and has presented his work at numerous international conferences. His scholarly contributions build on and expand the MER Integral Management framework, with emphasis on sustainable and responsible business practices. As Vice-Dean for lnternational Cooperation, he is responsible for strengthening FEB UM's global engagement, coordinating international partnerships, developing double-degree programs, and enhancing student and staff mobility. Under his leadership, the faculty has expanded cooperation with numerous institutions in Europe and beyond, while also intensifying participation in international projects and academic networks. Prof. Dr. Belak is actively involved in organizing international academic events, including the annual lnternational Scientific Conference of FEB UM. He collaborates closely with foreign universities, international faculty, and professional organizations to promote knowledge exchange, cross-border research cooperation, and the internationalization of higher education.Through his academic work, leadership roles, and international engagement, Prof. Dr. Belak contributes to advancing high-quality research and modem governance practices, while fostering an internationally oriented academic environment at FEB UM.

Maribor, Slovenia. E-mail: jernej.belak@um.si