This course will take place in a rotation mode format. The attendance time of the course is divided between two student groups so that the lecturer holds all units, but changing student groups are present in the classroom. The students themselves work on the content that cannot be dealt with in class. The group distribution will be announced prior to the first session.

In the “Strategic Management and Strategic Leadership I” course, students will learn about fundamental theories and concepts of Strategy and Leadership. In an interactive class format that combines lectures with group work and discussions, students will get an understanding of why a solid strategy coupled with good leadership is essential to survive in today’s fast-paced business environment. Building on a solid understanding of the key issues of strategic management and strategic leadership, the course further explores tools and concepts of external and internal strategic analysis.

Students who have passed this course successfully are able to:

· explain the role of strategy, strategic management and strategic leadership in an organization;

· conduct a thorough analysis of external and internal factors that affect firm performance;

· understand the influence of situations on leader behavior;

· apply various tools to evaluate a firm’s competitive advantage;

· understand how top executives can influence organizational processes and firm performance.

In addition, students will hone their communication and presentation skills through interactive group assignments. By the end of the course, students will be able to systematically apply concepts and theories of Strategic Management and Strategic Leadership through in-depth analysis of case studies. Finally, students will be equipped with the necessary knowledge to recommend solutions to problems related to Strategic Management and Strategic Leadership and assess their impact on firm performance. By working hands-on on real case scenarios, students will be able to understand the application of theory to practice.

Since this class is held in a rotation mode format, attendance in all block sessions is mandatory. Unexcused absence results in failing the class.

The course involves a variety of teaching methods including lectures, in-class discussions, case studies, reading assignments, group assignments and oral presentations. This pedagogical approach aims to enhance students’ learning and knowledge of the subject, as well their presentation, expression and teamwork skills, which are highly relevant in the labor market. The content and structure of the course are based on the textbooks: “Strategic Management”, by Frank T. Rothaermel, and “Leadership in Organizations”, by Gary Yukl and William L. Gardner III, and cover fundamental aspects of modern strategic management and strategic leadership.  These textbooks are available at the WU library.

· Participation (including peer feedback): 10%

· Group assignments: 40%

· Final exam: 50%

This course is available to students of the Cross-Functional Management Program and incoming Bachelor’s students. For questions concerning enrolment and waiting lists please contact Christina Kampe, the Coordinator of the Cross Functional Management Programme at cfm@wu.ac.at.

To ensure a meaningful and stimulating learning experience, students are expected to have an interest in the field of strategy and leadership.

If you have any questions concerning this course content please feel free to contact us.

Barbara Sporn - barbara.sporn@wu.ac.at

Bernhard Böhm - bernhard.boehm@wu.ac.at