Damien Puyenbroek (ILF2020)

Institution: 
Melbourne Business School

Course:
Advanced Management Program

I was introduced to the Industry Leaders Fund and Geoff Vogt through a member of our board. I was extremely grateful to be supported by my company directors, who were willing to invest in my development, to apply for a grant in the 2020 scholarship process. Geoff was fantastic in connecting me with other ILF scholars, who were able to share some insights into programs that would help me develop skills in my objectives of dealing with changing business environments and challenging organisation strategy.

The application process was a great opportunity to reflect on my leadership journey. The ILF team conducted the process with the highest level of professionalism and the interview panel were genuinely interested in my experiences and ambitions. 

I was fortunate to undertake study at the Melbourne Business School, studying the Advanced Management Program. The course was an intense 13-day live in program, allowing me to really focus on the course and make some strong connections with other leaders while attending the program. While the course was halted at the first attempt in 2021, only three days into the program due to the Covid pandemic, the group regathered in 2022 to undertake the 13-day program. The outcomes of the program have helped to build my skills in developing and challenging organisational strategy, and organisational transformation. The course also helped me focus on enhancing my personal leadership brand and preparing me for the complexity of managing for the future. The developed set of skills have led me to be a more engaging leader helping me drive positive business outcomes.

The course was designed as an interactive program for leaders from a wide range of industries to contribute and share thoughts on the course curriculum lead by the high-quality faculty staff. The style of program has led to me building connections and relationships that have continued after the completion of the program. These networks with driven leaders have continued to help me challenge my thoughts on leadership best practise, becoming a more confident leader in the process.

I am extremely grateful for the support given from the ILF to participate in the course and the opportunity to be an ongoing part of the ILF scholars network.