PwC Mini MBA

Session 1: 
Corporate&Business Strategy

The introductory module of PwC’s Mini MBA sets the tone for the program by

introducing a comprehensive mapping technique designed to illuminate the primary

areas where organizations can cultivate growth. This technique is elucidated through

three key segments of the map:

1. Analysis

2. Choice (options for growth)

3. Implementation

The module commences with an overview of the contemporary business environment. It emphasizes the dynamic nature of organizations in the 21st century, which undergo constant transformation driven by technological advancements and disruptive innovation, but also by factors as consumer behavior shift, globalization and demographic changes. Following this introduction, the module delves into an in-depth exploration of three levels of strategy – Corporate, Business, and Functional – and delineates the objectives pertinent to each level. This is accomplished through the examination of practical examples from well-known organizations, coupled with the application of relevant theoretical frameworks.

22 - 23 October 2024
11:00 am - 05:00 pm CET

Session 2: Operational Agility: Strategies for Efficiency

The “Operational Agility: Strategies for Efficiency” module is a natural progression from the Corporate and Business Strategy module, designed to equip Mini-MBA participants with the requisite knowledge, skills, and tools essential for steering and overseeing high-performing, adaptable operations across diverse business landscapes.

Expanding upon the strategic foundation laid in the preceding module, this segment delves into the intricacies of day-to-day operational management and

process optimization within a business context. It delineates the distinction between strategic planning, product design, resource management, and quality enhancement, emphasizing the pivotal role of operations management in executing strategic objectives and ensuring organizational effectiveness.

At its core, this module is dedicated to imparting practical insights and actionable strategies for crafting and implementing operations plans that seamlessly align with the overarching business and sales goals of a company. Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of how to translate strategic vision into operational reality, with a keen focus on orchestrating daily processes and overseeing business operations with precision and efficiency.

Throughout the module, participants will engage in discussions and activities aimed at honing their ability to develop and execute operations plans that drive business success. By emphasizing the integration of operational tactics with strategic objectives, this module empowers participants to navigate the complexities of modern business environments with agility and proficiency, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.

28 - 29 October 2024
11:00 am - 05:00 pm CET

Session 3: Marketing in the digital age

Market positioning, combining off-line and on-line marketing tactics; social media for businesses, the importance of content & video and finding the right balance; Customer Relationship Management through software systems & automation. 

Marketing involves identifying the customer’s needs and wants and satisfying them through the appropriate “marketing mix”. Together with an analysis of the external environment (from a marketing viewpoint), customers and competitors, these will be the focus of this module. 

In addition, it should be noted that areas such as branding, Internet marketing, marketing through social media and other concepts and ideas will be explored.

There is a dominant move in the market towards visualisation (videos) and content marketing and these will be explored along with other important trends.

Participants should be able to use various marketing tools and theories in real life examples as well as a good look in the area of ethics in marketing.

05 - 07 November 2024
03:00 - 07:00 pm CET

Session 4: Enabled Organisation

This module explores the link between organisational structure and management effectiveness. It addresses key topics like complexity and change, and looks at the management skills needed to respond intelligently. It is based on the idea that more traditional management styles (that place an emphasis on command and control) are becoming less suited to an business environment where talent is mobile, innovation is essential and connection is everywhere.

The module will challenge participants to explore the impact of change on themselves and on the people they manage. It will also look at the importance of differentiating between ‘performance’ and ‘contribution’ when giving feedback and creating a more engaged workforce.

The module will also identify and rehearse a set of skills (including coaching skills) that are aimed at helping staff cope with, and respond positively to, the changes they are facing.
 

18 - 20 November 2024
03:00 - 07:00 pm CET

Session 5: Accounting Basics & Financial Management

This module attempts to provide the basic principles of Accounting & Finance as it includes the areas that people involved in business should be aware of, mainly at an understanding level (not necessarily synthesis).

It covers areas such as budgets, analysis of financial statements, the concepts of assets, capital, profit, revenues, margin, dividends, cash flows and other items.

Strategy and financial strategy

• The role of finance in modern companies

• Accounting and the accounting cycle

• Understanding financial statements:

– Income statement

– Balance sheet

– Cash flow

• Managerial accounting and Financial decisions

• Concept of costs and break even point

25 - 27 November 2024
03:00 - 07:00 pm CET

Session 6: Leadership in 21st Century

High-quality leadership is the hallmark of successful organisations. Some people have a natural talent for the role but good leadership can be learned through training, coaching and practice. The quality of the leadership in place through the ranks of an organisation will in large part determine the success of that organisation in the long term. It is therefore essential that anyone entrusted with a position and responsibility for leading people fully understands and appreciates what this leadership role requires of them in practice.

In this module, the emphasis is placed upon the leader as a person and on efforts to understand individuals and to create an environment where differences, new ideas, curiosity and innovation are encouraged and cultivated. Various dimensions of leadership will be analysed, with reflection on the rapidly changing business environment and people’s needs.

02 - 04 December 2024
03:00 - 07:00 pm CET

Session 7: Project Management in Everyday 
Business

This module has been designed to provide understanding of the importance of project management methodology and approach in  everyday business.

The goal of the module is to help participants develop a unified approach towards project management challenges. It is also designed to help reduce the stress associated with project management, and to increase the chances that the project will be completed on time, within budget and to the required quality.

In addition, through practical exercises, participants will learn about the most important project management tools and techniques and to compare theoretical models with their previous experience. 

During the module we will focus on how to:

• Initiate, plan, execute, monitor and control, and close a project
• Understand and manage stakeholder requirements and expectations
• Manage a project in line with organisational strategy
• Understand the processes necessary for the successful completion of a project
• 11 - 13 December 2024
  03:00 - 07:00 pm CET

Session 7: Innovation & Creative Thinking 

The “Innovation and Creative Thinking” module is specifically crafted to empower participants with the critical skills required to spearhead and sustain innovation within their organisations. In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, the ability to think creatively and introduce groundbreaking ideas is paramount. This module provides the tools and insights necessary to transform innovative concepts into practical solutions that can significantly impact business success. 

Participants will engage in a thorough exploration of the innovation process, from the genesis of an idea to its execution. The curriculum is designed to challenge conventional thinking patterns and encourage a departure from traditional solutions.

By fostering a deep understanding of the theoretical underpinnings of innovation, coupled with practical techniques for creative problem-solving, this module ensures that participants can adapt and thrive in diverse business environments. 

Through this module, learners will delve into various dimensions of creativity and innovation, including the psychological aspects of creativity (growth mindset), the structural frameworks that support innovative thinking, and the skills necessary to drive innovation forward. This comprehensive approach ensures a balanced delivery of content that is both insightful and applicable.

Interactive sessions, along with collaborative projects, practical exercises, insightful discussions and case studies of successful innovations, will provide participants with a real-world perspective on overcoming challenges through creativity. This immersive learning experience not only enhances individual capabilities but also prepares participants to lead their organizations towards a more innovative and competitive future.

18 December 2024
10:00 am - 05:00 pm CET

Session 9: Linking it all together 

Preparing a business plan or a business analysis plan & Pre assessment / analysis of case through the use of a map © (Business Analysis MAP).Cases will be introduced as base for Case Study Assessment Paper.

20 December 2024
10:00 am - 05:00 pm CET

Case study assessment paper

2.5 hours