WORKING TOGETHER TO DRIVE SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS TRANSFORMATION
2013/14
Great Barrier Reef and Coral Sea, Australia.
93% of CEOs say that sustainability will be critical to the future success of their companies. Front cover image: Š Klein & Hubert / WWF see page 27
UN Global Compact – Accenture CEO Study 2010
The One Planet MBA | 1
Welcome to the future of MBAs
Contents 3 A unique MBA 4 Meeting business needs 7 A unique Business School 8 Our partnership with WWF 10 Expertise 13 Our environmental credentials 14 Why an MBA? 17 How is the One Planet MBA unique? 21 Our students 25 The One Planet MBA 25 Global Recognition 40 Our teaching approach 43 The One Planet MBA Challenge 44 Career coaching 46 Full time, modular and executive delivery 49 Entry requirements 49 Fees and scholarships
Š Jßrgen Freund / WWF-Canon
50 A stunning environment 50 Accommodation 52 Who to contact 53 How to find us
The One Planet MBA | 3
A unique MBA There is an urgent need to reshape the way we do business. Environmental, financial and social changes are challenging traditional business models and we need a new generation of managers and leaders who are capable of developing more sustainable business approaches. We have joined forces with WWF – one of the world’s largest and most respected conservation organisations – to provide a unique MBA to meet this need. Our One Planet MBA is designed to deliver the knowledge, understanding and skills required to run a successful and sustainable business in a rapidly changing natural, financial, social and global market environment. Our MBA will develop individuals who have a deep understanding of the challenges we face. Our MBA is global in outlook and you will learn alongside managers from many different countries. We will develop your ability to innovate, to think and act strategically and to lead others and organisations through change. We place an emphasis on tools, techniques and practical application and we will inspire you to become masters of business action. Many MBA programmes offer modules in corporate responsibility and ethical management. Where the One Planet MBA differs is that the core values of responsible management and sustainable business run through the very heart of the programme, from the topics covered to the learning and teaching style we adopt. Join us and be the first of a new generation of business leaders. Robin Mason DEAN, UNIVERSITY OF EXETER BUSINESS SCHOOL
4 | The One Planet MBA
The One Planet MBA: meeting business needs Exeter has an excellent reputation for the quality of its teaching – particularly in finance, accounting, entrepreneurship, leadership, economics and operations. The new One Planet MBA is a great example of how Exeter is leading at the cutting edge of business education. Barry Bateman VICE-CHAIRMAN, FIDELITY INTERNATIONAL
Hines is one of the world's leading developers of sustainable real estate. We need managers who are focused on business success but who also understand the importance of energy efficiency, sustainable materials and green technology. The One Planet MBA at Exeter will be well ahead of the game in developing managers with such a mindset. Michael Topham CEO EUROPE/MIDDLE EAST REGION, HINES
Business is now global – the commercial centre of Hong Kong.
Business survival and growth is about adapting dynamically to realities. Resources are finite, though the opposite assumption is embedded in much traditional business thinking. The Institute of Directors enjoys a long-term partnership with the University of Exeter and is delighted that the One Planet MBA is putting the resource issue where it belongs. Change brings opportunity and entrepreneurs, and many will benefit from the enlightened thinking that will flow from this programme. Richard Ayre INSTITUTE OF DIRECTORS
The One Planet MBA | 7
A unique Business School Business has been one of the cornerstones of the University of Exeter since it was founded. We offer a wide range of business programmes for undergraduate, postgraduate and executive students and clients from all over the world. Our business teaching is regarded as world-class and we are also recognised internationally for our research, which informs both our programmes and our consultancy with industry. Our reputation as a leading business school means we attract a very high calibre of student – high achieving, highly focused individuals, looking for the highest quality of business education. With students from 80 countries, and staff from 24, we are a truly international business school. We offer an unrivalled student experience with exceptional facilities, a stunning campus environment and a vibrant and friendly atmosphere. For the past five years the University of Exeter has been rated one of the UK’s
top business schools for student satisfaction. In the Times Good University Guide 2012, we were ranked comfortably in the Top 15 in the UK for every subject we teach. In addition to our top-flight faculty, the Business School maintains exceptional links with industry, commerce and the professions. We are able to draw on an extensive network of business leaders, management trainers and freelance specialists who contribute regularly to our teaching and coaching programmes and who provide a continuous source of ideas, information and resources. Now is a particularly exciting time to be joining us. We are enjoying a period of significant growth and investment in new facilities. Last year we invested over ÂŁ24m in new teaching, research and social interaction space, including world-class Harvard style lecture theatres and conference rooms.
8 | The One Planet MBA
Our partnership with WWF The University of Exeter has collaborated with WWF on sustainability training for business leaders since 2007, when the University began accrediting WWF's One Planet Leaders programme for top international executives. In 2010, the Business School took a bold step to radically reposition its flagship programme – the MBA. Hitherto, the MBA had followed traditional business principles and the usual emphasis on short-term profit. However, prompted by the growing relationship with WWF – the School decided it was time for change. Future business leaders needed to be trained to understand the growing challenges
of resource depletion, pollution, population growth and climate change and how business can reduce the effect of this change. The partnership with WWF offers important benefits when studying for an MBA. It helps to ensure the programme content is focused, relevant and informed by global challenges. WWF works closely with many large corporations around the world, including the Coca-Cola Company, HSBC, IKEA, Lafarge, Marks & Spencer, Nokia and SABMiller. Our students will become part of a global network of like-minded business leaders and benefit directly from WWF’s resources and relationships.
We are really excited about this opportunity to work with a new generation of business leaders who are ready to meet the global challenges head-on and help to create a world with a future. Jean-Paul Jeanrenaud DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE RELATIONS, WWF INTERNATIONAL
WORKING TOGETHER TO DRIVE SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS TRANSFORMATION
WWF is the most farreaching and effective environmental organisation in the world. Founded in 1961, it is currently spending nearly €370 million on conservation activities across the globe. It has five million supporters and 5,000 staff, running more than 1,300 projects in over 100 countries.
In the face of massive, unprecedented threats to the natural world – especially climate change and unsustainable resource management – WWF will focus on truly global priorities which can achieve real and lasting change. James P Leape, DIRECTOR GENERAL, WWF INTERNATIONAL
10 | The One Planet MBA
Expertise Business interest: The programme has attracted considerable business interest. A range of companies have been involved in designing the programme and 11 companies are now supporting Scholarships, guest speakers and placements. These new partners are Atos, Canon, Coca Cola, Cooperative Group, IBM, IKEA, Lafarge, Lloyds Banking Group, Sony and Thomson Reuters. Integrating environmental expertise: Working with the world’s largest and most respected environmental organisation, the programme benefits from WWF’s experience of engaging at the highest level with major companies around the world on sustainability issues. We have already integrated learning from its One Planet Leaders executive education courses and worked with WWF contacts in setting up companybased projects for students. WWF International also contribute to the teaching of the programme. Engagement with thought-leaders: The One Planet MBA includes a series of distinguished guest speakers who infuse new thinking into the One Planet MBA. Consultants and academics from around the UK and overseas have also
contributed to exploring the implications of sustainability for business education. These included Alan Knight OBE, independent sustainability advisor to the Virgin Group; Jake Bakus; Coca Cola; Nigel Topping, Carbon Disclosure Project, amongst many others. The programme also engages with the public sector and social enterprise. We have begun working with the Environment Agency and a range of notfor-profit organisations such as Tree Aid, Action Aid and EDP to further integrate their perspectives into our teaching. Community impact: Our programme and our students are having a direct impact on the local community, business and society. Our students are working on sustainability consultancy projects with local and regional companies in the South West of England and also major corporates. In the summer of 2012 our students are working with Coca Cola; Sony; the Met Office; KLM; The Cooperative Group; Thomson Reuters and many small companies to help develop a shared understanding of the implications of sustainability for business success.
Professor Peter Cox, Climate Systems Dynamics, University of Exeter, at the One Planet MBA launch 2011.
e South West Moorings Test Facility buoy is part of a suite of equipment helping to develop our understanding of the dynamics of wave energy devices.
The One Planet MBA | 13
Our environmental credentials For those who know the University of Exeter, it should be no surprise that the Business School is launching the One Planet MBA. Exeter has a growing reputation as a centre of excellence for cross-disciplinary research on energy policy, climate change, sustainable futures, ecology, conservation and renewable energy. We are also leading the field in embedding sustainability into our educational programmes. We have particular expertise in climate change research. Over the next three years, experts from the University will play a high profile role in creating what is set to be the world’s most comprehensive report on climate change. Seven experts from the University have been selected to take part in writing the 5th Assessment Report (AR5) of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). The University’s involvement in AR5 is second only in the UK to the Met Office Hadley Centre (also based in
Exeter), which was this year recognised as the world’s top geosciences research centre by the Times Higher Education. Due to be published in 2014, AR5 will review and assess the latest climate science to give authoritative guidance on the science of climate change, the impact of changes to our climate, and how we can adapt to or reduce the impact. The document will guide governments and decision-makers across the globe on policies to tackle climate change. We also endeavour to practice what we preach. As a university we were awarded a First Class Award for environmental performance for the second year running in the People & Planet Green League Table. We are one of the Top 10 UK universities to be awarded the Carbon Trust Standard, and we have been shortlisted for the Green Gown Award for achievements in carbon management.
I am delighted to see this new MBA programme being launched by one of the UK's top universities. All organisations, from all sectors and from SMEs to the major corporates urgently need to develop more sustainable business models and strategies. The One Planet MBA is the first of its kind – delivering contemporary core business skills alongside the latest thinking on how to adapt, innovate and prosper within a low carbon economy. Dr Martin A Blake HEAD OF SUSTAINABILITY, ROYAL MAIL, UK
14 | The One Planet MBA
Why an MBA? An MBA is a qualification recognised by employers all over the world. It provides the essential training for business leadership. Whether studied intensively over one year or via modular learning, an MBA will help develop managers into more confident, strategic, critical and global thinkers with the potential to lead change in a wide range of organisations. An MBA will involve training in a broad range of business subjects – including finance, accounting, economics, strategy, marketing, operations, human resources, information management and entrepreneurship. Your MBA colleagues will all have at least three years managerial experience and will come from many different industry sectors and backgrounds. This provides a rich learning experience. There are a number of specific benefits of studying for an MBA: Enhanced promotion and career prospects. An MBA will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to compete successfully for more senior management and leadership roles. Employers recognise the value of an MBA and promotion can bring significant rewards.
A complete change of role or sector. Some of our participants have come to a cross-road in their career and are looking for a complete change. They may be in a technical role (IT or Project Management for example) and wish to progress to a more strategic position, or they may be working in the public sector and looking to transfer to a more commercial role. An MBA is an excellent, and safe, environment in which to explore new business and employment opportunities. A time to consolidate, reflect and change. For others, an MBA is an opportunity to take time out, reflect and update business knowledge or skills before pushing ahead with a new career. An MBA will certainly stretch most participants and it is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a stimulating learning environment with like-minded colleagues and explore new ways of thinking, managing and leading. Networking. By mixing with students from many different industry sectors and countries you will also make excellent business contacts and discover many new opportunities. After your MBA you will join an international alumni network and you will also be able to make use of the Business School’s excellent contacts with the corporate world.
I was working at Citibank in Moscow before joining the One Planet MBA. For me, the main essence of sustainability is about collaboration – and that's what makes this MBA quite different. There’s more of a collaborative spirit than a competitive one, and you can really see that when we are working in smaller groups on case studies or projects in a highly dynamic group of interesting people. As a concept, people in Russia aren’t as aware about sustainability as in the UK. It’s not yet at the same level over there. I think I could be one of the people who could start to change that in business in Russia. Sofia Vakhidova, ONE PLANET MBA 2010
The role of insurers is to quantify and price risk effectively. In the face of new challenges such as climate change, sickness epidemics and environmental liability, we are taking sustainability issues increasingly seriously. Within our own business, and indeed in all businesses, we need managers who really understand the sustainability issues and can respond accordingly. Richard Ward, CEO, LLOYD’S OF LONDON
The One Planet MBA | 17
How is the One Planet MBA unique? One Planet means a very specific kind of education. Business planning and strategy in the future must recognise that we are rapidly exhausting the resources of our planet. The combination of very significant and asymmetric population growth over the next thirty years and the increased consumption of natural resources make it essential that business people be educated in a manner, and with a curriculum, different to that of the past.
The One Planet MBA delivers education in core business disciplines, and goes beyond the traditional functional orientation of an MBA. It is global in outlook and focuses on developing managers and leaders capable of running organisations in a culturally diverse and resourceconstrained world. It is influenced by the values of responsible business and responsible leadership.
A One Planet perspective impels leaders to be inclusive and imaginative in their vision, to be realistic about their responsibilities, and mindful of their legacy. On a worldwide scale, we have to make substantial changes to the ways we do business, in contexts of great uncertainty and complexity. Professor Jonathan Gosling DIRECTOR OF THE CENTRE FOR LEADERSHIP STUDIES AND JOINT FOUNDER OF THE ONE PLANET MBA
18 | The One Planet MBA
The One Planet MBA’s unique features include:
• An emphasis on sustainability throughout the curriculum. We will explore the science of sustainability, the business case and the importance of environmental protection, social responsibility and economic development. We will show that conserving resources is entirely compatible with winning and maintaining customer and shareholder value and confidence.
• An emphasis on leadership. To deliver sustainable business strategies requires transformation in many businesses. Transformation requires strong leadership. We focus on developing the skills and mindset required to be a One Planet leader – reflective, analytical, global-minded, action-oriented and ethical.
• An emphasis on ‘application’ and experiential learning. Indeed, we refer to our MBA as a Masters of Business Action. You will engage in a range of practical challenges and undertake consultancy projects for external organisations. We will develop your skills in areas
such as project management, facilitation, conflict resolution and communication to enhance your ability to become change agents in business.
• An emphasis on collaboration. Sustainability is not a ‘function’ in business, it is an orientation, a philosophy and a way of thinking and acting. We therefore draw on expertise from beyond traditional business departments.
• A global perspective. The problems facing our planet require global as well as local responses. The UK does not hold all the answers and it is important that we learn from best practice wherever it can be found around the globe. We provide opportunities for our students to travel to overseas universities and businesses to broaden their global perspective.
• Our collaboration with WWF. Our students will be able to benefit from WWF’s global connections and projects, with opportunities for exposure and involvement in frontline sustainability initiatives around the world.
Our programme will immerse, excite and challenge you. You will be joining a global network of new leaders – leaders who view the planet differently and have the skills and motivation to make a difference. Professor Robin Mason DEAN, UNIVERSITY OF EXETER BUSINESS SCHOOL
I manage resources, just like many managers, but mine are physical, tangible, environmental resources. I joined the One Planet MBA to find out more about business. My organisation has an important role to play in promoting sustainability, and I needed to understand how businesses operate and make their decisions. I am genuinely excited to be part of this new programme and what I believe it can achieve.
Chris Davis ONE PLANET MBA 2010, SENIOR SPECIALIST, MARINE POLICY – NATURAL ENGLAND
The One Planet MBA | 21
Our students In 2012/2013 we have 40 students on the full-time programme and 20 on our Executive MBA. On our full-time programme the students came from all around the world: Canada, USA, Pakistan, Sweden, Romania, Taiwan, Russia, Azerbaijan, Burkina Faso, Australia, St Vincent, Malaysia, China, Ghana, India, Nigeria, the Philippines, Brazil, Colombia, France and South Africa. Quite exceptionally, relative to other MBA programmes, just over half of the full-time cohort in 2012/13 are female. The average age is 33.
The Executive MBA programme consists mainly of students from the UK and Europe, although the mode of delivery (short intensive periods of study) does also encourage students from further afield to fly in to take the programme. The average age for the Executive MBA is 37.
22 | The One Planet MBA
Before the MBA I worked for Ripcurl Europe. The One Planet MBA is a pioneering programme and a great experience. My next career step is to really help businesses understand how dynamic and successful they can be if they give more attention to sustainability.
Eric Dargent (FRANCE), ONE PLANET MBA 2010
I came to Exeter from Ghana. I can’t quite believe the mix of students I have joined. I have colleagues from 22 different countries and everyone is incredibly supportive. It’s hard work but the classes and the practical emphasis is stimulating and so topical.
Keren Asante (GHANA), ONE PLANET MBA 2010
My previous work experience was quite specialised and I needed an MBA to broaden my horizons and business skills. At Exeter the programme has just the right mix and is so forward-thinking.
Bijoy Sasi (INDIA), ONE PLANET MBA 2010
I joined the MBA from Unilever. The programme is ideal for me. It is helping me understand both the commercial aspects of running a business but also how companies like Unilever can innovate to be more sustainable.
Tatiana Avila Viana de Silva (BRAZIL), ONE PLANET MBA 2010
I joined the One Planet MBA to broaden my business knowledge and also to build on my current role as the Brend Hotel’s Environmental Resource Manager. The One Planet MBA provides the tools to demonstrate that business can embrace sustainability and still be profitable.
Amanda Brend (UK) ONE PLANET MBA 2010
The world needs business managers and leaders who understand the pressures on global resources and can proactively deliver innovative solutions – in product development, sourcing, the supply chain, production, marketing, financing, reporting and, indeed, every facet of business. Equally importantly, business needs them too. In my sessions with the Exeter MBA students we explore how businesses can innovate and thrive through sustainable approaches.
Professor Alan Knight OBE INDEPENDENT ADVISOR TO BUSINESSES INCLUDING THE VIRGIN GROUP
The One Planet MBA | 25
The One Planet MBA Our MBA will take you on a journey of personal discovery and transformation – broadening and deepening your understanding of business and exploring how innovative sustainable strategies can be developed. Alongside the study of theory and management practice, we will develop your leadership skills so that you can resume your career at a more senior level. After the programme induction, the MBA journey begins with an exploration of the environmental, social and political challenges facing business and management. We then focus on the business fundamentals associated with
finance, accounting, marketing, operations, and talent management but from a sustainable perspective. You will then progress to examining business from a more strategic perspective before specialising in a particular management specialism of your choice. The programme concludes with a major consultancy or research project, which would typically be a practical assignment working with an external organisation. Sustainability is embedded throughout the curriculum, allowing you to readily appreciate how managers and businesses can improve their stewardship of natural, social and financial resources.
Global Recognition The One Planet MBA has demonstrated significant leadership in integrating social, environmental and ethical issues into its MBA Programme, according to the Aspen Institute’s 2011–2012 edition of Beyond Grey Pinstripes, a biennial survey and alternative ranking of business schools. The school is ranked 47 in a list of the Top 100 business schools.
While many MBA rankings exist, only The Aspen Institute looks beyond reputation and test scores to measure something much more important: how well schools are preparing their students for the environmental, social and ethical complexities of modern-day business.
26 | The One Planet MBA
Stage 1
Global Context We believe that future business leaders should understand the science behind sustainability, the business case for sustainable strategies and also the personal and professional challenges that will arise when leading change in organisations. A rich mix of guest lecturers from a variety of disciplines will lead debates on the challenges facing business and the potential solutions. We will explore the role and responsibility of business in society and the impact of business actions on the environment.
We will examine the implications of climate change, the depletion of natural resources, pollution and trends in consumption. We will consider the importance of ecosystems and biodiversity. We will examine the impact of environmental and social regulation on business. We will explore the actions businesses can take to manage these challenges, including new approaches to reporting, operations, sourcing, energy use, waste, recycling and water management. We will encourage you to develop and defend your own views on the issues and to refine your ability to argue, persuade and inspire colleagues on the planetary challenges that businesses face.
Solar Power Station at White Cliffs, New South Wales, Australia
© Mark Edwards / WWF-Canon
If businesses want to develop sustainable strategies they need to be good at innovating. On the One Planet MBA we explore and apply the latest thinking on innovation and the key tools and techniques. The students also directly apply these skills through management consultancy projects with external companies.
John Bessant PROFESSOR OF INNOVATION
The One Planet MBA | 29
Stage 2
Business Fundamentals Effective business decisions require an understanding of business fundamentals. We will explore these concepts, tools and techniques, but will look to challenge how they need to be adapted in the new economic, ecological and social climate.
• Integrated Accounting • Finance and Responsible Investment • Economics for a Sustainable World • Marketing and Customer Engagement • Managing Strategic Resources and Operations • Leadership Development
30 | The One Planet MBA
Stage 3
Integration Sustainability does not fit neatly into any one particular management discipline. It is a way of thinking and acting and every facet of an organisation needs to embrace sustainability for productive change to occur. For this reason in Stage 3 of the programme we take a more strategic perspective. • Global Strategic Analysis and Management • Strategic and Responsible Innovation Management • The Human Factor in Sustainable Organisations
Innovation module A unique feature of our MBA is the study of innovation. We will explore the core process underlying innovation and the enablers and blockages to effective management of this process. This ranges from incremental ‘do what we do but better’ innovation through to more radical, ‘do different’ innovation. We will explore the ways in which sustainable is becoming a key driver of innovation across a broad spectrum of sectors, and how we can embed an approach to innovation which is both responsible and sustainable in itself. This requires an understanding of the dimensions of responsible innovation and how these are implemented. The module will explore the challenges in establishing and sustaining such an approach to innovation and introduces a range of enabling tools, models and structures. You will work with external organisations to explore how they can improve their approach to innovation. As part of the innovation module you will work on an external project with an external client. We work with the European Centre for Environment and Human Health (ECEHH) to identify client organisations that wish to improve their approach to sustainable innovation.
We chose the University of Exeter Business School because of its ambitions to revolutionise how we think and teach business.
Carolina Moeller HEAD OF BUSINESS EDUCATION, WWF INTERNATIONAL
Professor Christos Kotsogiannis at the International Environmental Protection and Sustainability Forum held at the University of Exeter Business School in 2011.
The One Planet MBA | 33
Leadership Development We aim to develop leaders capable of running organisations in a rapidly changing, complex and global business environment. Effective leadership in such circumstances requires a particular mind-set and range of skills. We will explore the competencies required for effective leadership and will work with you to build on your strengths and help overcome weaknesses. Effective leaders require exceptional communication skills, and we will help develop your listening, report-writing, presenting, debating and public speaking skills. Uniquely, we will introduce you to the skills of communicating effectively with the press and TV media in crisis situations. As an agent of change in organisations you will also need to be skilled in negotiation, facilitation and conflict management. We will use role-play, simulation and consultancy assignments to enhance your capabilities in these areas.
Leaders in the new global market place need to be able to operate and collaborate effectively with managers in very different types of organisations. We will develop your sensitivity to different stakeholder perspectives and explore the practical implications for decision-making and leading change. Leaders also need to be strategic and critical thinkers, challenging the status quo and thinking creatively to achieve responsible business growth. We will help develop your ability to think outside of the box and in ways that can achieve transformational business change.
34 | The One Planet MBA
Stage 4
Specialisations This stage provides an opportunity for MBA participants to specialise in areas of personal interest. This is the chance to dig deeper into the challenges of particular aspects of business, leadership and sustainability. The number of electives you will be required to take will depend on your mode of study and the number of credits you need to accumulate. • Sustainable Supply Management • Solutions for Environmental Management • Exploring Leadership: Changing Perspectives for a Changing World • Collaboration and Partnering • Biomimicry and Business: Learning from Nature • Innovations in Sustainable Finance • Managing Around the World • Entrepreneurship: Starting Successful New Ventures • Creative Communication • Managing our Heritage • Governance and Ethics
International Our programme encourages a global perspective, and our student profile is extremely diverse with students from 22 countries. Within our modules we consider how the issues might vary in different national and cultural contexts. As part of the One Planet MBA we are able to offer students the opportunity to join an intensive one-week module in another country. In this module – Managing Around the World – students will join other MBA students from Canada, Ukraine, Russia, Finland, Iceland and Mexico to probe, reflect on and share different styles of management and leadership in culturally and ecologically-varied environments. Participants will be able to compare their leadership approach with others and understand how to improve and contribute to more planetminded business and community practices. The module is led by Professors Jonathan Gosling (Exeter) and Henry Mintzberg (McGill University, Canada) and is based on the internationally-acclaimed ‘Roundtables’ style of teaching.
The Roundtables module at Exeter added practical managerial challenges on top of the academic study natural to any degree programmes. It enabled MBA participants from all around the world to share and leverage their experiences and insights by working with seasoned managers and faculty to help explore and develop solutions to leadership problems.
Wayne Park CEO, LG ELECTRONICS, NORTH AMERICA
The One Planet MBA is an exciting opportunity to develop your business acumen within the context of the growing challenges businesses face in trying to grow at the same time as ensuring we conserve resources for future generations. As an investment banker with an MBA I appreciate the value of the management tools and techniques taught at Exeter and I use them regularly. I am also enjoying applying my MBA skills in a not-for-profit context and the world of animal conservation – I have recently launched the Giraffe Conservation Foundation in Africa. Greg Edwards DIRECTOR, HEAD OF ELECTRONIC FX CORPORATE SALES EUROPE, DEUTSCHE BANK AG
The One Planet MBA | 37
Stage 5
The One Planet Project This stage represents the culmination of learning and will allow you the opportunity to individually apply the knowledge and skills you have developed and mastered to a practical problem. This is also your opportunity to customise your MBA and pursue a project that will make you more attractive to a future employer. Uniquely, our MBA offers students a range of options for this final part of the MBA: Consultancy: A consultancy assignment for an organisation wishing to solve a business problem. Recent examples of MBA consultancy projects include: • Branding and Customer Engagement (Coca Cola) • The Future Programme Manager (Environment Agency) • Biodiversity Strategies (KLM) • Sustainability Reporting (Sony) • Innovation in Energy Management (Met Office) • Biomimicry and Business Design (Atos Consulting) • Strategic Business Development (Babcock)
• Information Management (South West Water) • Digital Marketing (M&B) • Diversity in Company Governance (The Cooperative Group) • Strategic Benchmarking (Thomson Reuters) Case Study: A report exploring the approach a particular organisation has taken to address a business problem or exploit a business opportunity. Research Dissertation: An exploration of a particular issue or topic of personal interest. Placement: Working for two to three months in an organisation in the UK or overseas, focusing on a project which is then evaluated for a dissertation.
38 | The One Planet MBA
We were really impressed with both the depth and quality of Kathie’s response to what was a complicated brief. Sony is committed to becoming a more sustainable company and demonstrating the business case for our social contribution programs is clearly essential to mainstreaming a responsible approach more widely. In that respect, Kathie’s project is both an original contribution to the wider corporate responsibility debate and a very practical tool for Sony to progress internally. Emily Nicoll GENERAL MANAGER, SONY EUROPE
Placement at Sony Kathie Oakeshott ONE PLANET MBA STUDENT 2010 – 11
40 | The One Planet MBA
Our teaching approach Our approach is built around the latest thinking and techniques from a wide range of management disciplines. We will provide the frameworks and tools to help you manage more effectively. The teaching will be interactive and stimulating, and alongside our own teaching faculty you will also learn from leading practitioners – a wide range of guest speakers and trainers will contribute throughout the programme. A significant amount of learning takes place as a result of debate and interaction between group members. Study groups foster mutual motivation and support, as well as developing teamwork and leadership skills.
Our teaching approach includes conventional lectures and case study seminars but the programme also has unique experiential elements. You will have the opportunity to work on a consultancy assignment with a local or international business or to travel abroad to research or manage a project in association with WWF or one of our corporate partners. We have a varied approach to assessment. You will find conventional assignments and exams, but we will complement these with more practical and applied assessments. These will include assessed presentations, a simulated press conference, reflective diaries, negotiation exercises, peer review and client feedback.
An Exeter MBA provides an overview of business activities, a focus on decision making and a portfolio of managerial tools. It also provides the opportunity to share ideas and experiences with international managers. Dr Kirsten Dale PART-TIME MBA, THE MET OFFICE
e One Planet MBA Cranfield Regatta team 2011, Eric Dargent, Mei Wong, Steve Gibson, Lisa Ellidge, Chris Davis.
The One Planet MBA | 43
The One Planet MBA Challenge On any MBA programme you will be personally challenged in many ways – including your ability to deliver incisive academic reports, to deliver high-impact presentations, to manage team-based activities and to manage an intensive workload. On the One Planet MBA we go one step further. We will encourage you to set your own additional challenge and to test and demonstrate your ability to initiate and lead by example. To achieve transformational change in business requires managers and leaders who are proactive and will rise to a challenge. More specifically, we will provide space in the timetable for you to propose, plan and deliver a project that advances sustainability in the local community. We set no particular boundaries but it should be a focused activity designed to promote sustainability and to demonstrate the leadership skills of our unique One Planet MBA students.
You will find many other opportunities for physical and mental challenges at Exeter. Our MBA students in the past have achieved great success in the annual MBA Regatta. This is an event initiated by Cranfield University MBA students but it attracts participants from MBA programmes all over the world. In 2011 the team of One Planet MBA students achieved 14th place. This opportunity will again be available in 2013 and we encourage you to take on the challenge.
44 | The One Planet MBA
Career coaching Our programme is personal. It is about developing your capability to progress into a senior management or leadership position. Throughout the programme you will have a mentor who will coach, challenge and advise on how your management and leadership skills can best be developed. Our dedicated MBA career coach can also advise on opportunities for job shadowing, placements and suitable dissertation topics to maximise your chances of success. We will also support you in your search for the next position in your career. We will help you articulate your personal brand proposition, plan your career strategy, refine your CV and prepare for interviews. We will also introduce you to our extensive network of employer contacts, now further enhanced by our association with WWF. After your MBA we hope you will secure your dream role in industry, commerce, the professions, the public
sector or a not-for-profit organisation. You will be equipped with a mindset and the knowledge and skills to be a catalyst for change in the organisation you join. We would naturally hope that you will make your own significant contribution to developing sustainable business models for the future. When you graduate you will not be working alone. You will join the Exeter MBA alumni community that stretches across the globe. You will join the wider Exeter University alumni community which extends to over 10,000 in 120 countries. You will also be a part of the One Planet Leaders Community – a growing network of students and executives who have benefited from WWF, IMD and Exeter programmes. We hope you will engage and contribute to these communities and share your experiences for everyone’s benefit. We also hope you will return to Exeter to participate in the growing range of executive programmes we offer.
As a direct result of the Exeter MBA I have now made that career change so many of us aspire to and have my ‘dream job’ as Managing Director of a rapidly growing renewable energy company. ,Brian Kennelly MANAGING DIRECTOR, EARTH ENERGY LTD
46 | The One Planet MBA
Full-time, modular and executive delivery The One Planet MBA is delivered in two modes – full-time and executive. Full-time The year is divided into three periods: • September 2013 to January 2014 for the core fundamentals • January to May 2014 for integration and elective modules • June to September 2014 for the MBA project. Some modules are taught on a weekly basis, eg three hours per week, whilst others are taught in a compressed block, 4–5 days, and shared with Executive MBA students. Executive The One Planet Executive Route is a part-time programme, designed for those who wish to remain working while completing their MBA. It is delivered over a period of just over two years. The programme normally starts at the end of September,
although there may be opportunities to join the programme at other points in the year subject to negotiation. You will take 12 modules plus the MBA Project. Most modules will be delivered intensively over a period of 4-5 days. You will take 6/7 modules each year, with a gap of around 6-8 weeks between each module. Your MBA project can be started at any time in the second year and can be submitted after the completion of your final taught module. The Executive Route is designed with flexibility in mind, to the extent that it may also be possible to study some modules on a weekly basis, eg every Tuesday, where such modules are available in the full-time programme.
The new One Planet MBA is an incredibly refreshing approach to developing and equipping our business leaders of the future with a genuine focus on long-term sustainability. Nigel Fenn ORGANISATIONAL AND EMPLOYEE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER, SOUTH WEST WATER
Scholarships for 2013 In 2013 we will be offering ÂŁ5,000 scholarships from Atos, Canon, Coca Cola, Cooperative Group, IBM, IKEA, Lafarge, Lloyds Banking Group, Sony and Thomson Reuters. For more information on scholarships and other sources of funding, please visit our website www.oneplanetmba.org
The One Planet MBA | 49
Entry requirements Academic qualifications and work experience Admission to the MBA programme is usually dependent upon a good first degree and a minimum of three years' managerial experience. Some applicants have extensive work experience but no formal degree. If this applies to you, we may consider your application if you can demonstrate evidence of professional training or professional qualifications of an equivalent standing to a degree. In very exceptional circumstances we may consider applicants without qualifications although this will be subject to a test to establish your suitability and potential for Masters study.
English International students must show proficiency in the English language and have an appropriate qualification. You must therefore be able to provide evidence of the following at the level stated. • Certificate of Proficiency in English of the Cambridge Local Examinations Grade B or above • IELTS 7.00 • TOEFL 250 • iBT TOEFL 100 + Additional requirements We also require two references (ideally including one from your last university) together with a personal statement explaining why you are interested in the One Planet MBA.
Fees and scholarships Tuition Fees The tuition fee for the One Planet MBA is £19,500. Fees can either be paid in full at the start of the programme, or in instalments. Business School Scholarships Scholarships will be awarded on a discretionary basis, with eligibility assessed using information provided in the application form and the personal statement. Sponsored MBA Scholarships In 2013, the Business School will also be offering £5,000 Scholarships towards tuition fees from Atos, Canon, Coca Cola, Cooperative Group, IBM, IKEA, Lafarge,
LLoyds Banking Group, Sony and Thomson Reuters. Other Sources of Funding Alumni of the University are automatically entitled to an Alumni Scholarship of £1,000. In addition, the University offers a range of scholarships and bursaries. You can find more information on these on the Scholarships, Bursaries and Studentships pages of the University’s website, which includes a searchable funding database. For more information on scholarships and other sources of funding, please visit our website www.oneplanetmba.org
50 | The One Planet MBA
A stunning environment If you choose to study at Exeter you will have the benefit of one of the most spacious and attractive campuses of any UK university. Devon really is a beautiful place to be. We are perfectly located: minutes from the coast in one direction and minutes from the rugged wilderness of Dartmoor in the other. We are on a mainline railway and motorway direct to Bristol and London. Exeter is the major business city of the South West of England, and has all
the facilities you could wish for. It is a vibrant and friendly place with a real sense of history and an exciting arts and social scene. So, when you need to unwind from your MBA studies, you couldn’t find a more varied environment in which to relax. Whether it’s cycling, surfing, antique browsing, theatre, live music, hiking, sailing, coasteering or bird-watching that interests you, they are all readily available on the doorstep.
Accommodation The University of Exeter guarantees an offer of a place in University owned, managed or approved accommodation for all international* students in their first year of study, so long as you apply by the stated deadline. Once international students have been housed – and if there is any further accommodation available – applications *international students are defined as those paying international fees (see your academic offer letter for further clarification)
from EU and UK postgraduates are considered. More information on University accommodation can be found at www.exeter.ac.uk/accommodation The Accommodation Office also maintains a database of privatelyowned rental property at www.exeterstudentpad.co.uk
52 | The One Planet MBA
Who to contact For general enquiries, please contact Julie Hargreaves at: The MBA Office University of Exeter Business School Building One Rennes Drive Exeter EX4 4SF UNITED KINGDOM Tel +44 (0)1392 724494 Email mba@exeter.ac.uk
Applications Details of how to apply and the qualifications you need can be found at www.business-school.exeter.ac.uk/ mba/apply
Truro
How to find us By rail Exeter has two railway stations – Exeter St David's (main station) and Central Station. Exeter St David's Station is approximately 10 minutes walk from the Streatham Campus and taxis are available. The average journey time from London Paddington is 2 hours 30 minutes to Exeter. Use National Rail Enquiries to plan your route. For passenger information telephone 08457 484950. By coach National Express coaches (08705 808080) call at Exeter Coach Station. The local D bus connects the coach station to Streatham campus. Get off the bus at the top of The Queen's Drive.
By car The M4/M5 links Exeter directly to London, the Midlands, South Wales and the North. The average journey time from either London or the Midlands is 3 hours. By plane Direct flights operate into Exeter from Paris, Dublin, Amsterdam, Geneva and airports in the United Kingdom including Aberdeen, Belfast, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Guernsey, Jersey, Leeds/Bradford, Manchester, Newcastle, Norwich and St Marys.
University of Exeter Business School Building One Rennes Drive Exeter UK EX4 4SF tel: +44 (0)1392 724494 email: mba@exeter.ac.uk www.oneplanetmba.org
This is printed on 100% recycled paper. When you have finished please recycle.
2012BS060