Institution: Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, UK
Course: Strategic Leadership Program
My Journey Through the Oxford Strategic Leadership Programme
In 2023, I was honoured to receive the ILF Lumination State Innovator Award, which came with a grant to complete the prestigious Oxford Strategic Leadership Programme (OSLP) at the Saïd Business School in 2024. This opportunity was a significant milestone in my professional development journey, highlighting the continuous potential for growth and learning as a leader. The experience was both energizing and inspiring, reinforcing my commitment to ongoing professional development.
The Oxford Experience
Set against the historic and intellectually rich backdrop of the University of Oxford, the OSLP was an immersive experience that leveraged the city’s history, architecture, literature, anthropology, and vibrant community. The programme featured a blend of lectures from world-class academics on topics such as “Leading in the Swamp,” “Stepping into Uncertainty,” and “Leading & Living in Complexity.” These sessions were complemented by unique experiential learning activities, including conducting a choir, participating in improv, reading and discussing poetry, exploring personal archetypes based on Shakespeare’s The Tempest, and understanding paradigm shifts through the lens of Charles Darwin.
A Retreat-Like Environment
The programme was hosted at the Egrove Park campus, just outside Oxford. This retreat-like setting, with its delicious food, fine wine, fitness facilities, and a focus on wellbeing, provided an ideal environment for deep reflection and learning. The serene surroundings allowed participants to fully engage with the content and focus on their professional development without distractions.
Diverse and Dynamic Cohort
The OSLP cohort was incredibly diverse, comprising 34 participants from 20 different nationalities and a range of industries. This diversity enriched the learning experience, as we were divided into tutor groups to discuss and unpack each participant’s strategic leadership challenges in a supportive and safe environment. The varied perspectives and experiences of my peers were invaluable, offering fresh insights and fostering a collaborative learning atmosphere.
Transformative Learning
Participating in the Oxford Strategic Leadership Programme was a transformative experience. The programme’s blend of academic rigor and experiential learning pushed me out of my comfort zone and challenged my assumptions.
OSLP
The OSLP is designed to challenge senior leaders to think creatively and strategically about their leadership roles. With support from over 15 core faculty members, the programme includes small-group tutorials, interactive workshops, and experiential sessions. It attracts leaders from around the world, providing a global network of peers and a lifetime membership in the Oxford Business Alumni Network. This network is a valuable resource for ongoing professional development and support.
In conclusion, the Oxford Strategic Leadership Programme was not just an educational experience but a profound journey of personal and professional growth. The learnings and connections made during the programme will continue to influence my leadership approach and drive Fivecast’s success in the years to come.
