Twilley Sales Academy director brings real-world experience into research and teaching

Experience and innovative action have helped prepare Dr. Michael Rodriguez to become the director of the Twilley Academy of Sales Leadership in ECU’s College of Business. Rodriguez has worked for major companies like Oracle, Salesforce and IBM, and has taught in higher education, including at ECU for the past year.

“I am excited about the bright future the Twilley Academy of Sales Leadership has under the direction of Dr. Rodriquez,” said Richard Twilley ’89, who established the sales leadership academy. “I’ve had the opportunity to get to know him over the past year, and I remain impressed with his commitment to excellence, process focus, student success and sales research. We are very fortunate to have him at the helm.”

As the director of the Twilley Academy, Rodriguez is looking forward to having an impact on students and their ability to find career opportunities. He also said he plans to grow ECU’s sales partnerships with organizations within North Carolina and nationally. 

“I appreciate the faith that Mr. Twilley, Dean Harris and others have in me,” Rodriguez said. “I’m looking forward to what we’re going to be able to accomplish here.”

Rodriguez has been innovative in his approach to utilizing artificial intelligence within the sales world. His recent publications have studied AI and sales managers and AI in B2B sales. He feels that a big part of the future of sales education and its development will leverage technology and incorporate sales research into the current curriculum. 

“We’re thrilled to have Dr. Rodriguez in this important role,” said College of Business Dean Mike Harris ’92, ’93. “Under his leadership, the Twilley Academy will become a nationally recognized sales program.”