This advanced leadership course addresses the unique challenges and opportunities facing Managing Directors in today's complex business environment. Participants will explore the evolving role of the MD as strategic leader, board interface, and organizational steward. The course covers leadership transitions, stakeholder management, and the balance between operational oversight and strategic direction. Through executive coaching approaches and peer learning, attendees will enhance their leadership effectiveness and prepare for the highest levels of organizational responsibility. This training is designed for current and aspiring Managing Directors seeking to excel in their leadership roles.
The Developing Role of the Managing Director
Leadership and Business Management
October 25, 2025
Introduction
Objectives
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the comprehensive role and responsibilities of Managing Director
- Navigate the transition into MD role effectively
- Balance strategic leadership with operational oversight
- Manage board relationships and governance requirements
- Lead organizational transformation and change
- Develop executive leadership presence and influence
- Manage complex stakeholder relationships
- Drive sustainable business performance
- Build leadership legacy and succession pipeline
Target Audience
- Current Managing Directors and CEOs
- Deputy Managing Directors and COOs
- Business unit leaders preparing for MD roles
- Regional and country managers
- Family business successors
- Senior executives in leadership transitions
- Board members overseeing MD performance
- Leadership development candidates
Methodology
- Executive coaching sessions
- Case studies of successful MDs
- Leadership reflection and self-assessment
- Peer learning and exchange
- Stakeholder management simulations
- Board presentation exercises
- Personal leadership plan development
Personal Impact
- Enhanced strategic leadership capabilities
- Improved executive presence and influence
- Stronger stakeholder management skills
- Increased confidence in MD role
- Better work-life integration and resilience
- Enhanced personal leadership brand
Organizational Impact
- Stronger organizational leadership and direction
- Improved board and stakeholder relations
- Enhanced organizational performance
- Better talent development and succession
- Stronger corporate reputation
- Sustainable leadership pipeline
Course Outline
Unit 1: The MD Role and Transition
Role Clarification- Evolution of the Managing Director role
- Key responsibilities and accountabilities
- Board vs management responsibilities
- Legal and fiduciary duties
- Transitioning into the MD role
- First 100 days planning
- Managing expectations and perceptions
- Building credibility and authority
Unit 2: Strategic Leadership
Strategic Direction- Setting organizational vision and direction
- Strategic decision-making at enterprise level
- Balancing short-term and long-term priorities
- Leading in uncertainty and ambiguity
- Effective board communication and reporting
- Managing board dynamics and relationships
- Governance compliance and best practices
- Shareholder and investor relations
Unit 3: Organizational Leadership
Executive Team Leadership- Building and leading executive teams
- Talent development and succession planning
- Performance management at executive level
- Conflict resolution among senior leaders
- Shaping organizational culture and values
- Leading change and transformation
- Employee engagement and communication
- Diversity and inclusion leadership
Unit 4: Stakeholder Management
External Stakeholders- Government and regulatory relations
- Media and public relations management
- Community and social responsibility
- Industry association leadership
- Employee communication and engagement
- Union and workforce relations
- Managing internal politics and dynamics
- Building organizational alignment
Unit 5: Personal Leadership Development
Executive Presence- Developing executive communication style
- Personal branding and reputation management
- Leadership visibility and accessibility
- Crisis leadership and communication
- Work-life integration and personal resilience
- Continuous learning and development
- Mentoring and legacy building
- Succession planning and transition out
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