A woman stands as a man talks and two others listen around a table

Under pressure: The new Executive Education programmes aim to equip leaders with the tools they need in today's BANI world

Warwick Business School has launched two new Executive Education programmes designed to meet increasing demand for leadership skills.

The WBS Executive Leadership Programme and The Strategic Mindset of Leadership programmes aim to equip senior leaders with the tools and frameworks necessary to navigate the complexities of today’s business environment.

By combining insights from the School’s world-class academics, with visits to industry partners, and executive coaching, the WBS Executive Leadership programme, which is a five-day residential at the Warwick campus, will help participants develop their own leadership style. While on The Strategic Mindset of Leadership they learn to embrace a paradox-mindset, develop agility and creative problem-solving skills.

Course Director for both programmes, Dimitrios Spyridonidis, Associate Professor of Leadership and Innovation, said: “In a rapidly changing world, staying competitive requires leaders stay up-to-date with the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in leadership and management.

“Leaders face numerous challenges and pressures. These programmes help develop the ability to think strategically and make informed decisions, while cultivating the resilience to remain focused and effective under stress.

“They also offer a chance for leaders to step out of the office and reflect on their leadership style, gain new perspectives, and refine their skills to become more effective and inspiring leaders.”

The WBS Executive Leadership Programme, which is designed for those in the C-suite or aiming for it, provides an immersive, high-impact programme that will help participants refine their skills for navigating an ever more complex world, which academics are now describing as BANI (Brittle, Anxious, Non-linear, and Incomprehensible) – a step up from the previous VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous) environment.

Dr Spyridonidis added: “Great leadership isn’t just about adapting to change - it’s about anticipating it, shaping it, and thriving within it. This programme equips you with the clarity, resilience, and strategic insight to lead with purpose in an ever-evolving world.”

The Strategic Mindset of Leadership programme, taught at WBS London at The Shard, introduces practical tools and frameworks that support innovation, decision-making, and strategy, essential for managing the disruptive world of BANI.

This four-day programme focuses on empowering leaders to lead through change, inspire purpose in their teams, and seize opportunities.

Dr Spyridonidis said: “Participants will leave with a refined ability to assess risks, make bold decisions, and drive long-term success by fostering agility and resilience in their organisations.”

Participants will engage in simulations, scenario-based workshops, and group collaborations to deepen their understanding of how to lead through volatility and ambiguity.

“Both courses offer unique benefits, including networking with like-minded leaders, immersive industry engagement, and executive coaching,” said Dr Spyridonidis. “Participants will have the opportunity to collaborate with C-suite executives and thought leaders, gaining exclusive insights into real-world leadership challenges and solutions.

“By providing senior leaders with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today’s complex landscape, we are helping to develop the Change Makers that the world needs, to challenge the status quo and build a future that will benefit all of society.”

Discover Warwick Business School’s Change Makers.