About Us

Steven Smith serves as Executive Director of the Institute for Applied Geopolitics (IAG), bringing over 25 years of experience spanning academia, industry, and global consulting. His expertise in integrating geopolitical analysis with strategic planning has established him as a thought leader in helping organizations navigate global challenges.

Throughout his career, Dr. Smith has built a comprehensive understanding of global markets and geopolitical dynamics through roles in both corporate and academic environments. His experience includes engineering and management positions at Procter & Gamble and PepsiCo, as well as faculty appointments at institutions including Rutgers University, Columbia University, University of New Orleans, and Florida Atlantic University. 

Currently, Dr. Smith also holds the position of Professor and Chair of the Department of Business at The University of Olivet in Michigan, where he is directing the development of the first MBA in Geopolitical Risk Management in the United States. This program will bridge the gap between traditional business education and the domain of geopolitical analysis.

As a strategic advisor, Dr. Smith has consulted with Fortune 500 companies across multiple industries, helping organizations navigate strategic and geopolitical challenges and optimize their global operations. His analytical framework integrates political, economic, and cultural dimensions to provide insights into emerging market opportunities and risks.

Dr. Smith's commitment to advancing geopolitical education led him to develop innovative training programs, including co-founding the Certificate in Geopolitical Analysis program at Florida Atlantic University. Through IAG, he continues to advance cutting-edge geopolitical intelligence training for professionals worldwide, helping organizations build essential analytical capabilities.

Dr. Smith has lectured across six continents, addressing audiences ranging from university students to corporate executives. He holds a B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering, MBA, and Ph.D. in Strategy and International Business from Rutgers University, credentials that underpin his multifaceted approach to analyzing today's global environment.

Under his leadership, IAG will advance the understanding of geopolitical dynamics, providing analysts and decision-makers with the tools and insights needed to navigate international challenges and identify emerging opportunities.

Deborah Allen serves as the Chief of Staff at the Institute for Applied Geopolitics (IAG), bringing extensive expertise in operations, finance, and business development. With over 15 years of experience spanning corporate and startup environments, Deborah has a proven track record of streamlining processes, implementing innovative solutions, and driving sustainable growth.

Throughout her career, Deborah has led strategic initiatives that optimized business operations, implemented new technologies, and enhanced team productivity. She has successfully driven financial turnarounds through improved reporting and process efficiencies while overseeing key business functions, including accounting, marketing, and business development. Her entrepreneurial experience includes managing financial operations, identifying growth opportunities, and crafting effective marketing strategies to achieve consistent year-over-year growth.

Deborah holds an Executive MBA from Florida Atlantic University and a BSBA in Accounting from the University of Arkansas. With her strategic mindset and commitment to excellence, she is dedicated to empowering organizations and teams to achieve long-term success.

At IAG, Deborah applies her leadership and operational expertise to support the institute’s mission of equipping the next generation of geopolitical leaders with the skills and knowledge to excel in a complex global landscape.

Nich Fairbanks is the Director of Business Development and Enrollment at IAG, where he connects individuals and organizations with valuable geopolitical analysis education, training, and consulting services. Nich brings over 15 years of experience in sales, service, and management, with a proven track record of success in the telecommunications industry. He is passionate about building strong client relationships and developing tailored solutions to meet their unique needs.

Prior to joining IAG, Nich honed his leadership skills managing teams, both in-person and virtually, while overseeing one of the busiest telecommunications locations in South Florida. His commitment to employee development has resulted in numerous team members achieving promotions and career growth under his guidance.

Nich's expertise is complemented by a strong academic background, including a Master of Public Administration from Purdue Global, a certificate in Geopolitical Analysis from Florida Atlantic University, and a BS from Northern Illinois University. During his undergraduate studies, Nich furthered his understanding of Middle Eastern relations and politics through a study abroad program in Amman, Jordan.

Nich's dedication to client success and his passion for geopolitical analysis helps him support IAG's mission to empower through training and education.

Simone Rivard-Roberts serves as the Strategic Communications Intern at the Institute for Applied Geopolitics (IAG), where she contributes to the development and production of outward-facing content, including newsletters, press releases, and social media communications. She combines a strong background in marketing and public relations with a growing interest in the intersection of geopolitics, media influence, and public engagement.

Simone brings experience in brand awareness, digital content strategy, and event marketing, having supported data-driven campaigns designed to strengthen engagement and expand audience reach. Her professional background includes roles in real estate and marketing, where she built long-term client relationships, coordinated operations, and contributed to the implementation of targeted outreach initiatives.

Simone holds a BA in Communication Studies from Florida Atlantic University and is currently pursuing her MBA, maintaining a 4.0 GPA. A former NCAA Division I soccer player, she applies the same discipline, teamwork, and high-performance mindset from athletics to her professional endeavors.

At IAG, Simone supports strategic communications efforts that enhance the institute’s visibility and mission to inform, educate, and engage audiences on critical global issues.