In an era marked by significant geopolitical shifts, technological advancements, and changing global dynamics, business leaders must adapt their strategies to navigate an increasingly complex international landscape. This intensive 4-day block seminar will equip masters students with the knowledge, insights, and strategic tools necessary to thrive in this new global paradigm.

The seminar is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current global business environment and its regional nuances:

Day 1 sets the stage by exploring the new global landscape, focusing on the interrelated phenomena of economic decoupling, deglobalization, and the impact of exponential technologies. This foundational day will provide the context for the region-specific discussions that follow.

Days 2, 3, and 4 delve into the unique challenges and opportunities of competing in and with three key global regions: the New BRICS Block, North America, and Africa. Each day, we will examine the distinct economic, political, and technological factors shaping these markets and the strategies for effective competition within and across these regions.

The course combines lectures, interactive case study discussions in Ivey and Harvard style, and workshops to provide a dynamic learning experience. Each day should start with a one-hour small group self-study period before the start of class, allowing participants to prepare for the day's topics and engage in collaborative learning.

The daily schedule runs from 9 AM to 4 PM, with a one-hour lunch break, except for Day 1, which includes an industry panel session from 5 PM to 7:30 PM, and the final day, which concludes at 3 PM.

By the end of this seminar, participants will be able to:

• Analyze the key drivers and implications of economic decoupling and deglobalization on global business strategies.
• Evaluate the impact of exponential technologies on various industries and business models.
• Develop strategies for maintaining global competitiveness in an increasingly fragmented world.
• Compare and contrast the business environments, challenges, and opportunities in the New BRICS Block, North America, and Africa.
• Assess geopolitical risks and develop mitigation strategies for operating in diverse international contexts.
• Apply scenario planning techniques to anticipate and prepare for future global business trends.
• Critically evaluate the ethical implications of business decisions in a complex, interconnected world.

These learning outcomes will equip CEMS students with a nuanced understanding of the global business landscape and practical strategies for competing effectively through the complexities of our decoupling, deglobalizing, and technologically accelerating world.

At least 80% of attedance is mandatory.

Classroom Norms

The classroom norm is no laptop or cell phone use during class sessions. Using your computer during class for personal activities such as reading/writing emails, writing letters, surfing the internet, playing games, etc., is also distracting and counterproductive and violates our norms.

The course combines lectures, interactive case study discussions in Ivey and Harvard style, and workshops to provide a dynamic learning experience. Each day should start with a one-hour small group self-study period before the start of class, allowing participants to prepare for the day's topics and engage in collaborative learning. 

Student grades will be determined by:

1. Participation                                                                             30%
2. A group presentation on September 29, 2024.               30%
3. Individual term paper due by October 30, 2024             40%

Classroom participation and attendance is mandatory.

Classroom Contribution (30%)

I expect you to be fully engaged in the learning process, and you should be prepared to participate voluntarily and when called upon in each session. This means devoting time and energy to preparation before, listening to others during, and engaging in discussions. Collective reasoning and discovery are critical to successfully applying the case method. Asking questions can make high-quality contributions to learning when they advance general understanding by stimulating an in-depth analysis or explanation of a point.

Your contribution grade will be based on a daily assessment of your performance. Your class contribution’s quality and quantity will be assessed as indicated below. No credit will be given for missed classes, although you might be asked to provide evidence of your preparation in writing.

Asking questions can make high-quality contributions to learning when they advance general understanding by stimulating an in-depth analysis or explanation of a point. Remember, the main objective of your contribution is not jockeying for a grade but learning, helping your colleagues learn, and, through this, learning yourself. The following list will provide some guidance.

There are no formal requirements, though a basic understanding of international business and strategic management and good English language skills are recommended.

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