Programme structure 

This module provides a platform for CEOs and senior executives and public servants to share views and experiences on key global and Saudi trends and challenges. It places particular emphasis on the analysis of how these are shaping the competitive landscape for civil services, business and corporate life in Saudi Arabia and in the wider context. Oxford based faculty and speakers from business and governmental organisations stimulate debates and encourage participants to challenge existing paradigms and create new ones. Whether it’s the world economy, globalisation, the impact of new technologies, demographics, diversity, cultures or societal values, the programme addresses critical questions: ‘What situations and prospects are we facing?’ and ‘What should we do about it?’ 

In this module the participants are encouraged to assess both the established and emerging challenges faced by their organisation in the context of its position in global, regional and Saudi markets. As the particpants expand their knowledge of the key business functions within their organisation they develop insights in value creation through innovative functional strategies, efficient business processes, best managerial practices and design of organisational polices. The key questions addressed during the module are: ‘How do we build and sustain competitiveness of the organisation?’ and ‘How do we create and maximise value for stakeholders?’ 

Module three focuses on the participants, reflecting on their effectiveness as a leader in inspiring others, executing strategies and enhancing individual and organisational performance. Role play sessions enable the participants to focus on their skills for presentation and communication as a leader. The participants meet well-known professionals and practitioners from who have had to adapt and learn how to navigate through ‘extreme situations of physical and mental stresses.’ The participants reflect upon the importance of a leader’s resolve in today’s chaotic world and address the key question within this module: ‘How do I address and confront the challenges embedded in the task of leading within my organisation?’

The module also draws upon the insights gained in the preceding weeks and all the participants now address what they are going to initiate when they return to their organisations. They develop intentions, draw up action plans, make resolutions and are encouraged to make professional commitments to enhance their ongoing personal development process. 

During the eight-week period between Modules 3 and 4, teams of participants conduct field work on contemporary themes of strategic importance to the Saudi economy and the society. The themes for 2010 SOAMLP project work are:

• Strategies and programmes for promoting excellence in citizenship and public participation
• Strategies and programmes for developing leaders in local development and societal empowerment
• Strategies and programmes for developing leaders in sovereign wealth management and investment banking
• Strategies and programmes for improving health care, municipal, community and social services
• Strategies for developing and encouraging national parallel and focus development programmes and initiatives
• Strategies and programmes for developing leaders in public, vocational and higher education
• Strategies and programmes for encouraging and supporting SMEs and young entrepreneurs
• Strategies and programmes for encouraging technology innovations and ventures
• Strategies and programmes for encouraging “beyond oil and gas” industrial downstream innovations and clusters
• Strategies and programmes for policy making and national economic sectors integration 
• Strategies and programmes for training media professionals for societal integration
• Strategies and programmes for building awareness about 21st Century World
• Strategies and programmes for encouraging accountability of public servants
• Strategies and programmes for encouraging accountability of corporate leaders
• Strategies and programmes for bridging gaps between higher education and industry

During Module 4, in Riyadh, KSA, the teams will present their recommendations to the key policy makers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.