Uncertainty is part of every leadership transition. As new deans take the helm, they grapple with new responsibilities and navigate challenging decision-making in an increasingly complex environment.
The Strategic Leadership Programme for Deans (SLPD) is a learning platform for new deans and business school directors to dive into the real-life experiences of their accomplished counterparts.
Newly appointed Deans or Director General of the entire institution with overall school management responsibility.
NOTE: This programme is only for those with chief executive (top management) responsibility and authority in their institution. In other words, we only accept registrations for the school’s Dean, Director General, President, Rector, and Managing Director.
To enable close interaction between the speakers and participants, a maximum of 20 participants will be admitted to the programme. Registration will close as soon as this number has been reached.
19:30 – 21:30
Networking dinner
09:00 – 09:20
Welcome to EFMD and introduction to the programme
09:20 – 11:20
Session 1: The Resource Challenge
Through discussion and shared experiences, participants will examine strategies for prioritisation, allocation, and innovative use of resources. The goal is to reframe constraints as catalysts for creative leadership and sustainable impact.
11:20 – 11:40
Coffee break
11:40 – 12:40
Dialogue and feedback
12:40 – 14:00
Lunch
14:00 – 16:00
Session 2: Innovation and transformation
Together with Marion Debruyne, we will explore how to keep innovating in your institution, how to keep up the pace of the changing world, and the needs of students.
16:00 – 16:30
Coffee break
16:30 – 17:30
17:30 – 17:40
Outcome of the day
17:40 – 19:00
Cocktail and finger food at EFMD
19:00
Free evening
09:00 – 09:10
Introduction of the day
09:10 – 10:10
10:10 – 10:40
Coffee break
10:40 – 12:40
Session 3: Advisory Boards
12:40 – 13:30
Lunch
13:30 – 15:30
Session 4: Challenges and Choices for Business Schools
Business schools face mounting social, economic, and political pressures that challenge their missions and models. This session explores how institutions can adapt and innovate to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world.
15:30 – 17:00
Dialogue and feedback
19:30 – 22:00
Informal dinner
09:30 – 09:45
Introduction of the day
09:45 – 11:45
Gaining advice
11:45 – 12:00
Coffee break
12:00 – 13:00
Gaining advice
13:00 – 14:00
Lunch
14:00 – 15:00
Wrap up
15:00 – 15:30
Closing remarks: open forum, any issues, feedback on the programme
We have secured a block booking for you at the hotel ‘Le Chatelain Brussels Hotel’ situated 5 minutes walking distance from EFMD office.
The rate is:
Breakfast is €37 per day and per person
And City tax: €9.50 per room per day (not included in the rate)
Exceptional cancellation policy: Same-day (14 October 2025) cancellation allowed until 2:00 PM
Click here to book your accommodation.
To contact the hotel: group@le-chatelain.com
Please contact us for credit card payments. An additional processing fee of 2.90% will be charged for all credit card transactions.
Cancellations must be confirmed in writing. If EFMD is notified of your withdrawal by 15 September 2025, an administrative cancellation fee of 75€ + 21% VAT will apply. After this date, we regret that no refunds can be issued. As the Strategic Leadership Programmes for Deans is aimed exclusively at directors general/dean of the business school, no substitutes will be accepted.
EFMD
Rue Gachard 88 (4th floor)
1050 Brussels – Belgium