Jim Grose (ILF2016)

Institution: Harvard Business School (USA)

Course: Owner President Management Program

Geoff from the ILF presented an exceptional opportunity for professional development that perfectly aligned with the demands of running Axiom Precision Manufacturing. As a busy owner-manager, I sought a fast-paced, intensive program that comprehensively covered all aspects of business management. The OPM course at Harvard Business School, often described as “drinking from a firehose,” perfectly fit this need.

Prior to the OPM, many of my business decisions were largely based on intuition. The course provided a robust framework for understanding and validating these decisions, offering valuable insights into the underlying principles of successful business strategies.

The case study method employed throughout the program proved incredibly valuable. By analysing real-world business challenges faced by companies across diverse industries, I gained a deeper understanding of different decision-making approaches and their potential consequences. This significantly reduced the uncertainty and doubt surrounding critical business decisions.

Furthermore, the OPM provided a unique opportunity to learn alongside a cohort of like-minded leaders from around the world. Sharing experiences and perspectives with these peers proved invaluable, offering diverse insights into addressing common business challenges.

While pursuing a traditional MBA while running a demanding business was impractical, the OPM offered a concentrated and impactful alternative. This accelerated learning experience equipped me with a comprehensive range of business strategies and tools to effectively navigate the complexities of the modern business landscape.

I am incredibly grateful to Geoff and the Industry Leaders Fund for their generous support in this transformative learning journey.