2026 EFMD Dean’s Circles

Online
3 February
Vienna,
Austria
anna.jirova@efmdglobal.org

Event details

EFMD Dean’s Circles present an opportunity to join a group of deans from the EFMD network to jointly explore strategic questions, concerns and dilemmas that they are facing. Dean’s Circles are designed and moderated to generate rich and diverse content that gives deans information and perspectives when they need it most.

Circle formation and journey

Each circle is comprised of five to seven current deans from diverse EFMD member schools and regions, as well as an expert moderator who has formerly held the role of dean. At the start of the programme, deans are supported in co-designing the Circle themes that will be discussed at each meeting. Where the group deems it valuable to hear an expert opinion on a topic, this input will form part of the circle agenda.

Over the course of twelve months, the Circle convenes:

  • Face-to-face at the EFMD Deans Conference (opening engagement in Vienna, on 3 February 2026, 8:30-10:00 CET)
  • Five online meetings of two hours each, purpose-built for rigorous exchange in a safe, confidential environment (never recorded)

Circle members will benefit from:  

  • Guidance from experienced deans and other experts in small group conversations
  • Insight by accessing peer perspectives to solve current problems
  • Validation of their interpretation and resolution of issues
  • Foresight through identifying and learning about issues that may not be on the radar (yet)
  • Networking benefits from broadening and deepening a peer community

Target group

The programme is designed for all Deans of EFMD member schools who have completed the EFMD Strategic Leadership Programme for Deans (SLPD). It may be most beneficial to deans in their first deanships or those who have taken on deanships in new environments.

Additional Information

Application process: All deans interested in joining an EFMD Dean’s Circle will be invited to join a conversation which will enable them to learn more about the programme and to be best matched to a diverse circle.

Want to join this event?

Participants' testimonials

I found the Dean’s circle to be extremely helpful in thinking about issues of importance and getting different perspectives. This really helped me in my practice. Also I appreciated the collegiality and clear process.
Jonathan Foster-Pedley
Henley Business School
South Africa

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