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MBA in
Strategic
Leadership

Today, organisations demand leaders who can think strategically, act decisively, and adapt confidently. The MBA in Strategic Leadership is designed to develop the critical skills and insight required to lead in complex, uncertain environments.

This strategic leadership program goes beyond theory, empowering you to apply leadership principles in real-world business scenarios. You’ll explore advanced management strategies, leadership dynamics, and the tools needed to navigate change, drive growth, and influence at all levels. With this online MBA in strategic management and leadership, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and confidence you need to take bold, informed action in a VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous) world.

Module Code
Course
ECTS
Part A
MBAISTEC01
Business Strategy
5
MBAISTEC02
Human Resource Management
5
MBAISTEC03
Fundamentals of Finance and Accounting
5
MBAISTEC04
Leading Organizational Change
5
MBAISTEC05
Strategic Operations Management
5
MBAISTEC06
Research Methodology
5
Part B
Specialization 13: Strategic Leadership
MBAISTEC37
Global Cross-Cultural Leadership
5
MBAISTEC38
High-Performance Organizations: Design & Development
5
MBAISTEC36
ESG, Policy & Stakeholder Leadership
5
Part C
Capstone Project
15
Total Credits
60
Business Strategy
Module Description

This module aims to guide students in analysing and assessing different elements of Business Strategic Management within an international setting. It examines key theories, models, and frameworks to offer a deeper understanding of how organizations progress through different phases to attain success. Additionally, the module enables students to analyze the connection between corporate strategies, performance outcomes, and the demands of stakeholders.

Learning Outcomes

LO1. Examine the principles and frameworks of strategic management, and critically assess how organizational strategy aligns with stakeholder demands and performance outcomes.

LO2. Assess the influence of contemporary and evolving economic, political, and cultural factors on strategic decision-making in a global business environment.

LO3. Design effective business strategies amid challenges posed by innovation and change and analyze their role in driving organizational success.

LO4. Create actionable plans for executing business strategies while improving stakeholder satisfaction and engagement.

Human Resource Management
Module Description

This module provides a comprehensive understanding of human resource management principles and practices, equipping students with the requisite knowledge, skills, and competencies for effective people management within contemporary organizations. It aims to facilitate the development of students’ individual managerial and leadership philosophies, informed by a critical examination of assumptions and beliefs regarding human behavior in the workplace. Recognizing the dynamic and competitive global business environment, the module addresses the strategic importance of human resource management in navigating organizational challenges across domestic and international contexts. Furthermore, it introduces the relevance of HRM practices within a globalized framework, exploring their significance, scope, and fundamental applications.

Learning Outcomes

LO1: Assess the strategic role of HRM practices and their interplay with organizational behaviour to resolve business challenges and improve effectiveness.

LO2: Critically evaluate key leadership theories by analyzing their characteristics, strengths, and limitations. Assess the leadership behaviour continuum and contextual influences on style selection.

LO3: Analyze organizational behavior and its link to management, assessing influences on individual/group behavior and management’s role in aligning dynamics with strategic goals.

LO4: Evaluate IHRM’s strategic impact on global performance, analyze multinational HRM challenges, and assess best practices for adoption.

Fundamentals of Finance and Accounting
Module Description

This module aims to provide next-generation leaders with a level of practical understanding that can be used in the workplace by covering a range of key areas in financial accounting, management accounting and finance in general. The module covers analysis and interpretation of financial statements of contemporary firms, cost classification, investment appraisal and budgeting affecting the financial behaviour of an organization.

Learning Outcomes

LO.1 Critically analyse Financial Accounting Principles to measure Bottom Line impact and develop competitive strategies.

LO.2 Critique the relevance and significance of Budgeting Process, Techniques and Methods in driving Organizational Performance.

LO.3 Evaluate Financial Statements and business performance using Ratio Analysis.

LO.4 Evaluate investment appraisal techniques to support decision-making.

Leading Organizational Change
Module Description

This module delves into the critical aspects of leading strategic change within organizations operating in today’s dynamic global landscape. It builds upon foundational strategic change management principles to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze the need for change, formulate effective change strategies, navigate organizational complexities, and engage stakeholders throughout the transformation process. The module emphasizes the pivotal role of leadership in driving successful strategic change initiatives while considering ethical implications and the impact on organizational performance and stakeholder expectations.

Learning Outcomes

LO1. Critically evaluate the implications of managing strategic change and its role in driving organisational transformation.

LO2. Analyse and critique the key organisational management challenges arising from transformation, assessing their impact on operational and human dimensions.

LO3. Synthesise and critically assess the effectiveness of change strategies, evaluating their influence on leadership dynamics and human behaviour within organisations.

LO4. Critically appraise change management theories, examining their application to leadership and employee engagement in fostering successful transformation.

Strategic Operations Management
Module Description

This module aims to equip postgraduate students with a comprehensive understanding of operations management’s strategic significance and its role in securing a competitive edge for organizational success. It explores the crucial interdependencies between operations and other key business functions, such as marketing, finance, and information systems, emphasizing how their synergistic collaboration drives the achievement of overall business objectives.

Learning Outcomes

LO1: Understand and utilize a range of operations management tools and methodologies, selecting and applying appropriate techniques across diverse operational scenarios.

LO2. Employ information management principles and critically assess their application within operational functions to foster competitive advantage and enhance global organizational competitiveness.

LO3. Apply and critically appraise the significance of project management methodologies in various business contexts.

LO4. Demonstrate an understanding of operations strategy in both national and international settings and evaluate the impact of technological advancements on operational functions.

Research Methodology
Module Description

Research Methodology is an opportunity for students to demonstrate their ability to investigate issues of their own choice over a significant period. Essentially this is an individual effort, but it is carried out with the guidance and advice of a supervisor. Research is a creative and investigative process that only learners can develop in totality. All learners are expected to attend the research methods sessions conducted as scheduled and informed by the course admin. The research methods are conducted to help learners understand the various aspects of Research and the dissertation journey in detail. Research method sessions usually involve detailed lectures and training activities on writing the literature review, different methodologies and philosophies, quantitative and qualitative analysis etc. among other aspects.

Learning Outcomes

LO1: Design and justify an independent research project, selecting appropriate methodologies and philosophies to address a chosen research issue.

LO2: Critically evaluate academic literature, synthesizing key theories and gaps to construct a coherent literature review.

LO3:  Apply  quantitative  and/or  qualitative  research  techniques,  demonstrating competence in data collection, analysis, and interpretation.

LO4: Develop a structured dissertation, adhering to academic standards while presenting findings, conclusions, and recommendations effectively.

Specialization

Global Cross-Cultural Leadership
Module Description

This module explores the complexities and dynamics of global cross-cultural leadership in contemporary international organisations. Students will critically evaluate key leadership theories and their application in diverse cultural contexts. The module addresses the challenges and opportunities of managing multicultural teams, with emphasis on communication, conflict resolution, and adaptive leadership styles. Learners will also examine the strategic importance of cultural intelligence and digital transformation in enhancing global leadership effectiveness. Additionally, the module investigates leadership strategies for navigating socio-political, economic, and technological complexities, preparing students to lead responsibly and effectively in an increasingly interconnected and culturally diverse global environment.

Learning Outcomes

LO1: Critically evaluate the theoretical foundations and practical applications of cross- cultural leadership in international organisational contexts.

LO2: Analyse the challenges and opportunities of managing multicultural teams, including communication, conflict resolution, and leadership style adaptation.

LO3: Evaluate the strategic role of cultural intelligence and digital transformation in enhancing leadership effectiveness across global projects.

LO4: Analyse effective leadership strategies for navigating socio-political, economic, and technological complexities in diverse global environments.

High-Performance Organizations: Design & Development
Module Description

This module explores the design and development of High-Performance Organizations (HPOs) within varied business environments. Students will critically evaluate the core principles, characteristics, and theoretical foundations that underpin HPOs. The module examines strategic design frameworks and organisational structures that drive sustainable performance. Learners will analyse the critical roles of leadership, organisational culture, innovation, and talent development in building high-performance work systems. Emphasis is also placed on evidence-based approaches to diagnosing performance gaps and implementing transformational change. Through real-world cases and applied tools, students will develop strategic capabilities to design, lead, and sustain high-performing organisations in dynamic global contexts.

Learning Outcomes

LO1: Critically evaluate the principles, characteristics, and theoretical foundations of high-performance organizations (HPOs) within diverse business contexts.

LO2: Analyse strategic design frameworks, organisational structures, and systems that enable sustained high performance.

LO3: Critically Examine the role of leadership, culture, innovation, and talent development in fostering and sustaining high-performance work environments.

LO4: Analyse evidence-based strategies for diagnosing performance gaps and implementing transformational change in organisations.

ESG, Policy & Stakeholder Leadership
Module Description

This module explores the strategic integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles within modern organisations. Students will critically evaluate ESG frameworks and their application in shaping corporate policy and long-term value creation. The module examines the pivotal role of leadership in advancing ESG initiatives through ethical governance, stakeholder engagement, and sustainability reporting. It further analyses the influence of national and international policy mechanisms on sustainable business transitions. Learners will also explore advanced strategies for managing complex stakeholder relationships, addressing conflicts of interest, and aligning ESG objectives with organisational goals in an increasingly regulated and socially accountable global environment.

Learning Outcomes

LO1: Critically evaluate the principles and frameworks of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and their integration into corporate strategy and policy-making.

LO2: Analyse the role of leadership in driving ESG initiatives, including stakeholder engagement, ethical governance, and sustainability reporting in complex, multi-actor environments.

LO3: Critically Assess the influence of national and international policy mechanisms on ESG practices and the transition to sustainable and responsible business models.

LO4: Analyse the advanced strategies to manage stakeholder relationships, conflicts of interest, and value creation within ESG-driven leadership contexts.

About Istec Business School

Istec is a prestigious business school in France, renowned for its academic excellence and global recognition. With 63 years of expertise in business education, Istec offers professional bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs across 14 disciplines. The institution collaborates with 100 international exchange centers and has established partnerships with over 1,500 institutions worldwide, fostering strong academic and research collaborations.

Ranked 28th in l’Etudiant 2024 Ranking of business schools in France, Istec stands as a leading institution, equipping future business leaders with the skills and knowledge required to navigate an evolving global economy. As a member of AACSB and EFMD, and recognized by the French State, Istec Business School continues to uphold its reputation for excellence, innovation, and strategic impact in business education.

  • Over 60 Years of Expertise
  • 1,500 Students
  • 7,000 Graduates
  • 59 International Destinations
  • 3,500 Partner Companies
  • 25+ Student Associations
  • 3,500+ Job Offers, Internships, and Work-Study Opportunities for Students
  • Candidates who have a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognised institution and should have at least 2 years of working experience.
  • Candidates without a bachelor’s degree but with at least five years’ experience in business management can apply.

Learning Outcomes

Live & interactive lectures by expert faculties

Recorded session for offline viewing

World-class curriculum by eminent faculty

Practical learning through seminars and workshops

Assignments for module assessments

Easy-to-use LMS accessible anywhere

Online library to further enhance your knowledge

Gain real-world skills, providing a well-rounded educational experience

MBA in Abu Dhabi

Still Not sure? Talk to our Expert Mentors

    Program Faculty

    Online MBA
    Salma Yehia
    Faculty
    Salma Yehia
    Salma Yehia is a lecturer and research analyst in the areas of Marketing and Business Studies with extensive 7-year experience in academia. She started her teaching career as a lecturer in Egypt at the German University in Cairo (GUC) and has proved herself as a valuable faculty in various domains especially Marketing and Strategic Management. She is also experienced in other business studies as Human Resource Management, International Business, Strategic Leadership, and Business Sustainability. Alongside Salma has professional research experience and has excelled as a Research Assistant on numerous fieldwork research projects in Egypt, Germany, and UAE. Salma holds an MSc in Business Administration with a specialization in Marketing from the GUC. And is currently pursuing her PhD degree at Phillips-University in Marburg; with a thesis titled “The effect of living in a sustainable city on sustainable consumption: a comparative analysis between Germany and UAE”. Her research interests lie in the areas of international marketing, sustainability, consumer psychology, and corporate social responsibility. She has published and presented proceedings at international conferences in Egypt, Germany, and Turkey. In addition to academia, Salma practices Pilates and is passionate about travelling, exploring new destinations, and experiencing diversified cultures.
    Best MBA Programs in UAE
    Ms. Maria Monica
    Associate Head of Quality & Compliance
    Ms. Maria Monica

    Maria is a dedicated academician with over a decade of experience in teaching both postgraduate and undergraduate students. With a robust background in quality assurance and compliance, she has completed her CPD UK qualification in quality management and system auditing, reinforcing her expertise in ensuring academic and operational excellence.

    Previously, Maria served as Head of the Department (HOD) and Controller of Examinations (COE) in renowned universities, her roles underscored her leadership in academic administration and commitment to quality standards. Her professional journey includes experience as an Audit Associate at Ernst & Young, bringing a comprehensive understanding of financial and operational audits.

    Maria specializes in delivering high-quality education in diverse fields such as Forensic Accounting, Green Accounting, Finance, Taxation, Banking, Insurance, and Net Zero Carbon Neutrality. She is actively involved in student supervision for postgraduate dissertations, demonstrating a strong commitment to nurturing future research professionals.

    Her research interests span fundamental in synchronous and asynchronous learning, with notable collaborations with Cambridge University, Harvard Business School, and IIM Ahmedabad on Case teaching methodologies. Maria is passionate about promoting institutional growth through knowledge transfer and professional practices, making significant contributions to both academic and practical spheres.

    In addition to her academic achievements, she is a vocalist and was a national-level hockey player, showcasing her dedication to excellence in both on and off the academic field.

    Online MBA in Dubai
    Ms. Rajashree K.N
    Associate Head of MBA Programs
    Ms. Rajashree K.N

    Rajashree is a seasoned professional with a decade of experience spanning both corporate HR and education. Her corporate journey includes key roles at Nissan, GE, and Standard Chartered Bank. Subsequently, she excelled as a school centre head for over eight years, demonstrating expertise in curriculum development. Currently, she contributes significantly to Exeed College as the Associate Head of MBA programs.

    With a strong foundation in HR and education, Rajashree has developed a specialized focus on behaviour modification and mindset coaching. She is in the process of obtaining Associate Certified Coach certification from the ICF and actively practices leadership, executive, and mindset coaching.

    Rajashree is recognised for her eclectic coaching and teaching approach, with a strong belief in fostering self-efficacy in learning.

    UCAMMBA
    Dr. Noor un Nisa Shahani
    Faculty and Program Leader
    Dr. Noor un Nisa Shahani
    Dr. Noor holds the degree of PhD in Commerce (Management Sciences) from University of Sindh, Jamshoro, Pakistan. Her research interest includes Organizational Behavior, Business Creativity, HR Practices and General Management. She has 10 years of teaching experience at University Level. She also holds a high reputation due to her extraordinary contribution in Research and got award for outstanding research contribution in 2021 by Bath Spa University, UAE. As a trainer Dr. Noor has conducted professional trainings on Research methods Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis. Where she has had the opportunity to train, interact and learn from highly qualified faculty. She has around 30 national and International research publications.
    Best Business School in UAE
    Shahid Wani
    Senior Faculty
    Shahid Wani
    Shahid holds 8 years of experience in Business and Finance, both industrial and academic. For the first 3 years of his working career, he worked for the British Civil Service in the financial domain. He has also been an active volunteer for an NGO in India, specifically working on social issues like women's empowerment, child education, child labour, and dowry. Shahid started his teaching career as a lecturer in India and has accomplished himself as a valuable faculty in various domains of business management, especially in the areas of Accounting, Finance, Risk, and Banking. He is also well equipped and experienced in business areas like HR, Supply Chain, Operations, sustainability, and so on. Besides he is also an established Trainer with years of experience in the Education & Corporate sector in the UAE & India. He earned his Master’s degree in Accounting & Finance from the University of Huddersfield, United Kingdom. Currently, he is pursuing his certification from the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) body, UK. He is also a successful diploma holder in the areas of Leadership and Conflict Management. Being a sports enthusiast, Shahid is a State level cricket player and has played across many states in India and local clubs in the United Kingdom. He has won many certifications and awards in various other sports including basketball and hockey.
    Dr. Mark Anthony S. Naval
    Faculty and LJMU Program Leader
    Dr. Mark Anthony S. Naval
    Dr. Mark Anthony Naval is a Ph.D. holder specializing in Philosophy, Humanities, Psychology, Research, Education, Critical Thinking, and Religious Studies. They ensure all institutional deadlines align with Ministry of Education standards. In 2012, Dr. Mark Anthony Naval created a Disciplinary Manual that became the national standard and contributed to the Philippines' K-12 Curriculum. Joining Exeed College in 2022, he led two Master’s Programs and later became the Program Head of the Doctorate in Education, developing course materials and the program handbook. In 2023, he published a paper on AI in Education with Springer. In May 2024, Dr. Mark Anthony Naval was appointed Program Leader for Liverpool John Moores University in the UK.
    Dr. Rekha Shewakramani
    Associate Head of Doctoral Programs
    Dr. Rekha Shewakramani

    Dr. Rekha Shewakramani is a seasoned Human Resource Management expert with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Her research focuses on the correlation between organisational behaviour and employee performance and satisfaction. A distinguished scholar, Dr. Rekha has been recognised with multiple awards for her contributions to HR research and management. In 2019, she was honoured as Researcher of the Year for her impactful presentations and publications.

    With a decade of experience in education, Dr. Rekha began her teaching career in the UAE in 2020. She has successfully trained numerous professionals for UK-accredited certifications and courses. Prior to this, she imparted her knowledge to undergraduate and postgraduate students in India. Her rich academic background, including a gold medal in Master of Business Administration and research published in UGC-listed journals, underpins her expertise.

    Dr. Rekha's diverse roles as a counsellor, trainer, and research fellow have equipped her with a unique ability to blend theory with practical application in her teaching. In 2022, she became an Associate member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), UK, further solidifying her position as a leading HR expert.

    Dr. Vivek Mohan
    Dean – Academic and Student Affairs
    Dr. Vivek Mohan

    Dr. Vivek has extensive experience managing multicultural, high-achieving teams in higher education domains related to the Middle East, the UK, and the US in terms of strategy, operations, and delivery. He is the recipient of the prestigious Medici Enterprise Award for commercialisation of research (UK) and various GCC leadership and organization awards. He holds a PhD in Business Management (UK) and an MSc in International Business (UK), a Doctorate in Management (Spain), an M.Phil in Applied Leadership (Spain) and is certified in Block Chain from UCLA (US), education design from UCL (UK), Project Management from CMI (UK) and blended learning from UNSW (Australia).

    He started his career as an operations consultant and has worked in product development and education design. Dr. Vivek has published and presented papers in international journals and conferences across the globe on topics such as Sustainability, Expatriate Performance and Synchronous online learning. With more than fifteen years of experience in both academia and consulting, he has worked closely with several highly regarded American and British universities on international alliances and digital implementation of higher education programs. Dr. Vivek has consulted for the UK Government (Arts Council, England) and held faculty and researcher positions at Sheffield Hallam University, UK and Leeds Business School, UK. Dr.Vivek has consulted and trained for public institutions and MNCs, including the ICC Cricket Council headquarters, PWC Middle East, Petrofac, Sharjah Co-op and WJ Groundwater.