Bear McBlack is a PhD Researcher at the Hertfordshire Business School, University of Hertfordshire, investigating the Generative AI Adaptation Paradox — the gap between rapid AI capability and the failure of most organisations to translate that capability into productivity gains. His research develops the ALeM Framework (Adaptive Leverage Model), a diagnostic methodology for identifying where AI creates genuine business value in small and medium-sized enterprises. The work draws on sociotechnical systems theory and technology adoption literature, with a focus on UK service teams of 5–50 people. Alongside the doctoral research, Bear is Head of AI Strategy at Thrivology Digital, a UK-based AI consulting firm that takes an assessment-first, business-led approach to AI adoption. The firm h...
PhD Researcher at the University of Hertfordshire investigating the Generative AI Adaptation Paradox. Head of AI Strategy at Thrivology Digital, helping UK small businesses adopt AI assessment-first.