Leading & Managing in Moments of Adversi

This course will provide the analytical ability and practical skills to lead and manage in moments of adversity and opportunity. The frameworks and strategies apply across the sectors from change-makers to start-ups, teams to companies, not-for-profit to government. The focus is on the leadership and management needed at key high-stakes moments: reform processes, large-scale social change, turnarounds, pressures from competition or innovation in the market, pivots, and pervasive and recurrent challenges… The methodology of this class relies on the case method using two types of cases: individual student professional leadership cases and pre-prepared case studies. It also draws on readings, structured exercises, videos and role-plays. 

Leadership requires a stomach for uncertainty, discomfort, conflict, and uncomfortable conversations around deeply held values. The class is used as a crucible to explore and learn about how we operate beyond our comfort zone. It allows students to practice building the resilience to lead in complex situations. This course’s format differs from many other courses and does not rely on lectures but instead looks to create an active learning environment in the classroom. We call this learning style experiential – we will use ourselves as cases and the class as a space to practice and develop our diagnostic, communication, management, and leadership skills.