Corporate Strategy

Part I: Introducing corporate strategy

• Locating and defining corporate strategy
• Strategy vocabulary
• Introducing different strategy lenses

Part II: The strategic position

• Environmental drivers of corporate strategy
• Strategic capabilities and “parenting advantage”
• Corporate governance
• Corporate purpose and stakeholders
• Corporate strategy and organizational culture

Part III: Strategic choice

• Diversification and vertical integration
• Portfolio management
• Mergers and acquisitions
• Strategic alliances

Part IV: Corporate strategy in action

• Leadership and strategic change
• Strategy actors
• Strategy practices
• Open strategy

Corporate strategy deals with an organization’s overarching plan defining its overall direction, scope and goals across business units. It is therefore a crucial subject for organizations of any kind - from multinationals, to start-ups, from charities to government agencies and many more. It raises the big questions about these organizations whose answers will determine their development, success, or failure.

The primary aim of this course is to provide a comprehensive overview of the main concepts, tools, and principles of corporate strategy. We will also explore and critically reflect on how strategists can navigate an increasingly complex and polarized world, facing challenges such as the climate crisis, enduring social inequalities, and political instabilities.

Throughout the course, students will practically apply theoretical concepts – through class discussions of case studies and a group project.

• Decent work and economic growth
• Responsible consumption and production

In presence

Lectures

Case study discussions in class

Guest speakers’ talks

80% - final written exam

15% - group project

5% - class participation