Deans & Directors Development Programme 2026-2027

The Deans & Directors Development Programme (3DP) helps those who are preparing for, or aspiring to, the role of business school Dean to better understand the complexities of the role; the nuances of leading business school teams, and how to navigate the challenging environment in which business schools currently operate.

3DP is a multi-dimensional development programme designed to nurture professional and leadership development. Each module tackles a range of critical issues led by expert guest speakers and are under the Chatham House Rule, giving participants the opportunity for candid and frank discussion.

By the end of the programme you will have deepened your understanding about the role of a Business School Dean and about the skills, knowledge and behaviours that are important in the role. In particular you will have a better understanding of:

• The complex relationship that exists between business schools, parent universities and the broader business community and how to create a distinctive value proposition for your school

• Practical ways in which Deans can build their senior teams and manage complex relationships between different teams, departments and between faculty and professional services

• Creating and maintaining inclusive and learning and working cultures where all students and colleagues can thrive

• Creating robust learning, teaching and student engagement strategies in a context of rapid technological change, regulatory challenge and the climate emergency.

• The evolving research environment and the role of the Dean in supporting and enabling a school’s research mission and impact agenda

• Contributing to the economic and social impact of UK business schools nationally and internationally