AGN; Part of your work encompasses providing communications and marketing services to businesses/organisations. For those who are unaware, how would you describe the difference between the two?

JOM; Marketing and communications vary primarily in their goals and areas of concentration. In order to establish connections, improve one’s reputation, and guarantee clarity both within and outside of an organization, communications management entails controlling the flow of information.

Contrarily, marketing is primarily concerned with promoting goods and services in order to increase sales and satisfy consumer demands. Marketing creates demand and engagement, while communications fosters understanding and trust.

AGN; Your work life straddles academia and commerce as you operate in both worlds. What advantage does this give you if any, in comparison to others in the commercial world who are not involved in academia?

JOM; Being in both academics and business gives me a distinct edge as it enables me to combine theoretical understanding with real-world application. While business provides practical experience, problem-solving abilities, and a results-driven attitude, academia hones critical thinking, research skills, and keeping up with developing trends.

I can develop evidence-based plans that are both creative and practical thanks to this dual approach, which gives me an advantage when handling challenging problems and adjusting to shifting market circumstances.

AGN; Why do you feel that your course of study and subsequently the work you do was the best path for you?

JOM; My course of study and work can be classified as the perfect match in terms of what I like and what I am good at. Marketing and communications help me to use my creativity, analytical and interpersonal skills.

These fields are never stagnant which means that there is always space to develop and there are always real life challenges to solve. Since there tends to be a combination of practice and research-oriented curriculum in my work, it allows me to make a significant difference to the organizations that engage me while enabling me to follow my passion for further education and knowledge which creates value and worth for me.

AGN; Which do you feel most strongly drawn to, academia or business and what do you think this is down to?

JOM; I have a very soft passion towards academic field of study because it encourages research, analysis and advancing of knowledge that fosters social development. However, the practical work that I do in business is real and gives me a sense of relevance that is refreshing. The balance comes from my main love for learning, teaching and using knowledge to solve real life problems

AGN; Your research interests extend to artificial intelligence in marketing. In terms of an African context, what insights can you share?

JOM; AI in marketing presents great opportunities in Africa because it allows companies to learn more about various consumers’ behaviours and needs, manage scarce resources more effectively, and expand their reach to new markets. Nevertheless, some of the barriers like inadequate digital facilities, data availability, and high costs are still too prevalent. For AI solutions to work effectively, they must be adapted to local environments and stakeholders need to be trained on their usage.

AGN; How do you stay abreast of current practices and trends that are relevant to your profession?

JOM; I keep myself abreast of happenings in the field by reading trade magazines, websites, professional journals and being a member of professional associations. I learn from the experts by attending conferences, webinars, and workshops and this cultivates ideas to exchange with them.

AGN; Which piece have you published to date that has had the most impact?

JOM; I created one of my most relevant works on the promotion of chatbots in the market and the protection of consumer data.

The work highlights the way that chatbots can improve customer experience and at the same time address concerns about data protection, especially in parts of Africa where laws on data protection are still limited. Through presenting ethical pillars and stressing the importance of disclosure, the study has shifted practices and research related to the appropriate application of AI in marketing.

AGN; What do you feel is most challenging in your professional life?

JOM; Scholars and practice professionals are often in a dilemma because both worlds demand much of a person’s time, energy, and flexibility. Furthermore, quick changes in marketing and technology along with ensuring the positive and effective outcome of communications processes can be challenging but fulfilling.

AGN; The continent continues to modernize, what role do you feel your country is best able to play?

JOM; Ghana is earmarked to be amongst the leading and preferred destinations for innovation, trade and education in Africa. The country has a stable political systems, a fast-growing technology industry, and an enabling culture that can promote the development of digital technology, sustainable development and cooperation between countries.

AGN; Does your upbringing have any influence on the early goals you set yourself and if so, how?

JOM; Indeed, I grew up with the important values of education, hard work, and perseverance. It’s a story of being raised in an environment that valued education and accomplishment and it laid down a foundation to serve society while making productive contributions in the areas of academics and practical work.

AGN; In addition to communications, marketing and academia, what else interests you?

JOM; My primary focus is on technology accompanied by social and ethical issues. Furthermore, cultural arts interest me, as well as public speaking, youth education and mentoring, since these fields are close to my heart and I like to help people.

AGN; What do you like to do to unwind?

JOM; I like to read, but of course outside of my academic focus, as it helps me to expand my vision. Listening to music, walking through nature and spending time with friends and family are some of the things I do to gain balance.

AGN; Who from your personal life have you most looked up to and what qualities or values do they exhibit that you most admire?

JOM; There are three qualities in my parents and lecturers which I respect a lot; first is their ability to persevere, second is their honesty and third is their commitment to education. I have been inspired by their dedication to hard work as well as their ability to create a good rapport with many they engage with.

AGN; Is there anything you would one day like to learn when time permits?

JOM; If I had the chance to start over, I’d like to take a degree in data science and programming to understand AI and analytics better. I harbour the desire to learn a new language in order to improve cultural compatibility as well as to expand the way I think and perceive things internationally.

AGN; What cause are you currently most passionate about?

JOM; I have strong advocacy towards the youth, especially in the areas of education, skills development in IT and business in Africa. I have a passion for backing projects that prepare the younger generation for life in a constantly evolving world.

AGN; Is there anything you would like to add?

JOM; I am a big fan of cooperation and flexibility because I think that it is possible to make a significant change in any sphere. I remain passionate in my professional development and also in supporting projects that can close the gap between theory and application to foster the improvement of communities and industries.