Module Information

Four modules with leadership in Agribusiness at their core will be delivered over a total of twelve days during the two-year period. These will be delivered in four blocks of three days, phased over the programme duration.

MODULE 1
STRATEGIC PLANNING AND ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR INTERNATIONAL GROWTH

Effective international market development requires the design and implementation of a pragmatic and actionable plan. This module will emphasise the steps required to develop such a plan. Topics covered include identifying a company’s competitive advantage and how to leverage it in international markets; evaluating which strategic activities to own and which to execute through alliances or outsourcing; and identifying the extent to which an organisation should be internationally diversified in businesses and markets.

MODULE 2
LEADERSHIP THEMES IN FOOD AND AGRIBUSINESS

This module will identify the major trends, sectors and pathways along which future growth in the food industry will be secured. The outcome will be a wider understanding of the potential for growth in the food sector. The module will be led by Mary Shelman, Director of the Harvard Business School Agribusiness Programme. Members of the Alumni Programme will join the Bord Bia Marketing Fellows for this module.

MODULE 3
BUILDING ADVANTAGE IN INTERNATIONAL MARKETS

Competitive advantage is built upon a base of knowing how to compete, where to compete, who to compete with and when to compete. This module will consider each of these issues, including: identifying high potential international markets for entry; understanding the implications of order of entry into markets; building advantage in aggressive retail environments;, dealing with international and local competitors; and adjusting marketing strategy to cope with local customer requirements while understanding the implications of such changes for the organisation.

MODULE 4
THE EXECUTION ORIENTED LEADER

The explicit purpose of this overall programme is to develop the international sales and marketing capability of Bord Bia client companies. Therefore, this module focuses on enabling new leaders to foster a climate that inspires change through personal leadership and individual action. It will also consider how to align culture, strategy and structure to drive change and significantly enhance performance. This module will be led by a faculty member from a leading international business school.

THE STRATEGIC RESEARCH PROJECT

The strategic research project helps participants turn theory into practice while bringing their skills to bear directly on the day-to-day activities and business challenges of their employer organisation.

Through the strategic research assignment, the alumnus assists in driving the company’s long-term development by defining and solving strategic problems, enhancing the organisation’s effectiveness or exploring business opportunities.

Participants on the programme will work with their employer to define and scope a project of long-term strategic value to the company. For the benefit of all parties, it is recommended that the project is aligned to the role being performed by the company employee while offering an opportunity to add a layer of strategic value to their role and their organisation.

Confidential information can be protected by a nondisclosure agreement if necessary and a template is available from UCD Smurfit School or from your Sector Manager at Bord Bia.