Stetson University School of Business Administration has named John Riggs, D.B.A., as the new executive director of the Centurion Sales Program. Riggs will be responsible for developing, launching and leading the new program that will offer a major and minor in sales beginning in the fall of 2017.

“I was drawn to Stetson because of their vision to take this program — and its students — to the next level,” explained Riggs. “Stetson’s program will be uniquely structured to bridge the gap between academia and practical application. Students will be immersed in rigorous academic content, demonstrate the practical application of knowledge in specialized sales training labs, and become truly engaged through partnerships with local businesses.”

“On top of his impressive academic credentials, John has many years of experience ‘carrying the bag,’”  said Neal Mero, Ph.D., dean and professor of management in the School of Business Administration. “His record of success as a pharmaceutical sales representative provides him instant credibility in the classroom and with potential employers of our students. When you combine that expertise with tremendous enthusiasm and a commitment to our students, you have the perfect leader for the Centurion Sales Program.”

Riggs has already begun to identify local businesses that want a mutually beneficial partnership with Stetson and to help with the co-creation of knowledge. “Strong partnerships with the business community ensure our students’ academic work is both relevant and can be practically applied,” Riggs said.

Formerly, Riggs served as an assistant professor of marketing at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, as well as the lead instructor for Huizenga Sales Institute where he helped launch the sales program. Riggs taught courses in professional sales, advanced sales, negotiation and communication. Prior to that he spent 23 years in the pharmaceutical and biotech industry with stints in sales, sales management, and as the global vice president for a biotech pharmaceutical company.

Riggs received the 2013 Faculty of the Year Award and Contribution of Knowledge Award by Alpha Kappa Psi, Omega Rho Chapter. The H. Wayne Huizenga School of Business and Entrepreneurship presented him with the Faculty Member with Greatest Student Impact award in 2012 and the Sales and Sales Management Degree Programs award in 2011. Riggs was also named one of the Top MBA Professors in Florida by Florida Trend magazine.

Over the past 10 years, Riggs has demonstrated his ability to bridge the gap between academia and practice by serving as a professional speaker, executive educator, and consultant for more than 40 organizations around the country. He has also published papers in the sales and sales management fields, most recently exploring the impact of regulations on salesperson activities and performance.

Riggs earned his Doctor of Business Administration and Master of Business Administration degrees from Kennesaw State University. He completed his undergraduate degree in health science education at the University of Florida.

About Stetson University

Founded in 1883, Stetson University is the oldest private university in Central Florida, providing a transforming education in the liberal arts tradition. Stetson stresses academic excellence and community-engaged learning, and consistently earns high marks in national rankings. Stetson encourages its students to go beyond success to significance in their lives, the lives of others and their communities. Stay connected with Stetson on social media.