Last week, the Cranfield School of Management in London hosted participants of the Women Directors Leadership Programme for an immersive international module. This international module, the sixth since the Programme’s inception, is designed to tackle critical issues faced by directors such as: conflict as a political skill in the board room, insights into global markets and trends, challenges of serving emerging markets boards, board culture and performance and effective risk management.
On the first day, the participants had the privilege of listening to and interacting with Strathmore University Vice Chancellor, Dr. Vincent Ogutu, Sally A F Springbett (She/Her), a Director at Sapphire Partners and Prof. David Oglethorpe, Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Dean of Cranfield School of Management.
Day two delved into ‘Leading in your Context’, exploring the unique challenges faced by women in leadership roles and the dynamics of gendered workplace cultures. Prof. Susan Vinnicombe and Dr. Hillary Harris led this insightful session, drawing from their extensive expertise in women’s leadership research and development.
Prof. Susan Vinnicombe is globally renowned as the premier research resource on women directors in the UK and Dr. Hillary Harris is an experienced leadership development specialist and executive coach. Prof. Vinnicombe has been at the forefront of research in women in corporate governance at the Cranfield International Centre for Women Leaders, an organization established in 1999 with an aim of increasing female representation and influence at the highest levels of corporate leadership.
The second day concluded with a visit to the Digital Aviation Research and Technology Centre (#DARTeC) at Cranfield University, a pioneering hub for digital aviation technology in the UK and Europe. The Centre addresses key research challenges in the aviation industry, including drone integration, airport efficiency, airspace security, and aircraft reliability through advanced technologies.
Building on these insights, day three’s sessions focused on inclusive talent management and lessons from Cranfield’s cutting-edge research and policy expertise in the changing world of work. Prof. Susan Vinnicombe shared valuable statistics on board diversity and the benefits of gender-balanced leadership, empowering participants to accelerate change within their organizations.
The participants also visited Whitefox Technologies and Investec. Whitefox specializes in membrane and engineering solutions, emphasizing leadership, culture, governance, and ESG frameworks. Investec, an international specialist bank and asset manager, highlighted global digital disruption and diversity initiatives.
The Programme also included a memorable visit to Marlborough House, home of The Commonwealth, where participants engaged with Prof. Luis Franceschi and explored themes of legacy and leadership.
Wrapping up the module, participants gained insights from LSEG (London Stock Exchange Group) on risk management strategies and the role of data in decision-making, enhancing their boardroom acumen.
The Women Director Leadership Programme is not just about advocating for women on boards and in C-Suite positions; it focuses on equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed for board and leadership excellence. Learn more about the Women Directors Leadership Programme here
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