Reflecting on the recognition, Professor Robinson said: “It is an honour to receive the OR Society’s Beale Medal which recognises a sustained contribution to the field. I started my career in operational research in the early 1980s. It seems amazing now to be joining the list of distinguished Beale Medal awardees.”

He was selected by the Past President’s / President Elect’s Committee having been nominated by a member of The OR Society. His nomination was further endorsed by six independent members of the Society.

A career of impact, innovation and leadership

Professor Robinson has successfully bridged industry and academia while maintaining an outstanding record in both research and leadership. His work has had a transformative impact on the practice of computer simulation – one of the fundamental tools of modern operational research.

Having begun his career in the management services group of a major UK footwear retailer, he was first introduced to simulation while working as a consultant with AT&T Istel, developers of the Witness simulation software. This early practical exposure shaped what would become a globally influential academic career.

Since embarking on his PhD at Lancaster University, Professor Robinson has produced more than 200 research papers, contributed to major funded research projects, and authored seminal texts. His writing is praised for its clarity and ability to distil complex methodological challenges – ensuring that developments in simulation research translate into meaningful improvements in practice.

His impact is not confined to theory. In 2021, Professor Robinson was part of the team awarded the President’s Medal for the SIMTEGR8 project, which supported the Lightbulb Service in improving housing services for frail and vulnerable residents across Leicestershire and Rutland. This work demonstrated the real-world value and societal impact of simulation-driven research.

Lasting influence on the field of simulation

One of notable contributions is his book, 'Simulation: the practice of model development and use'. First published in 2004, the third edition is due to be published imminently. The text is widely read, highly cited, and valued for its accessible approach, extending simulation knowledge well beyond its traditional disciplinary boundaries.

Professor Robinson has also played a pivotal role in building and sustaining the simulation research community. In 2006, he co-founded 'The Journal of Simulation', which has since become one of the OR Society’s flagship journals. He also helped establish the biennial Simulation Workshop in 2002 – now a cornerstone event for UK simulation researchers – and contributes internationally as a board member of the prestigious Winter Simulation Conference.

Leadership across operational research and business school communities

Beyond his scholarly achievements, Professor Robinson has been an influential leader within the wider OR and business education communities. He served as President of the OR Society from 2014 to 2015 and today chairs the Chartered Association of Business Schools. Before joining Newcastle University Business School as Dean in 2022, he was Dean of Loughborough University’s School of Business and Economics.

A fitting honour

In their citation, the OR Society emphasised Professor Robinson’s exceptional research record, his leadership across sectors, and his long-standing commitment to advancing the simulation and OR communities. They concluded that he is “a worthy recipient of the Beale Medal”.

The award reflects a career defined not only by academic excellence, but also by generosity, mentorship, and a dedication to applying operational research to create meaningful real-world benefits.