Board Director Program
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Crafted to Advance Your Leadership at the Board Level
Navigate the complexities of boardroom leadership through a dynamic, high-touch learning experience from the University of Michigan. This blended program combines interactive live online sessions with a five-day, in-person immersion on campus, offering direct access to renowned faculty and peer leaders. Through hands-on simulations, case discussions, and real-time feedback, you will explore critical topics, including governance, strategic decision-making, and financial stewardship. The program’s curriculum aids in developing leadership acumen to engage with purpose and lead with clarity and credibility at the board level.
Live Online Sessions
Participate in engaging, live online sessions led by Michigan Ross faculty, experiencing a real-time learning journey. Connect with expert faculty, industry leaders, and a diverse global cohort for discussions on governance, strategy, and leadership.
Five-Day Campus Immersion
Immerse yourself in a five-day in-person module on the Ross campus in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Participate in thought-provoking discussions, hands-on sessions, and meaningful peer interactions designed to enrich your learning journey.
Knowledge in Practice
Learn through hands-on simulations and real-world case studies, applying strategic concepts to boardroom scenarios and sharpening your governance skills.
Key program features
Delve into best practices for effective board governance, including fiduciary responsibilities, ethics, and the navigation of complex organizational challenges.
Learn from leading experts who are both thought leaders and experienced practitioners in their areas of discipline.
Immerse yourself in a five-day in-person module on the Michigan Ross campus in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and benefit from a range of facilitated discussions, experiential sessions, and networking opportunities.
Engage in hands-on learning by analyzing real-world scenarios and case studies, applying theoretical knowledge to practical challenges.
Gain new perspectives and build lifelong connections by networking with high-achieving professionals from different industries.
Engage in practical simulations that mirror real-world boardroom dynamics and complex decision-making scenarios to refine your strategic thinking and corporate governance skills.
Learning outcomes
The program will enable you to:
Understand Corporate Governance Principles – Develop a deep understanding of governance structures, fiduciary duties, and the roles of board members in ensuring organizational accountability
Enhance Strategic Leadership Skills – Learn to oversee corporate strategy, balance short-term performance with long-term growth, and navigate complex decision-making scenarios
Develop Financial Acumen – Gain proficiency in interpreting financial statements, evaluating key performance indicators, and assessing financial risks
Strengthen Risk Oversight Capabilities – Identify and mitigate operational, financial, and compliance risks while understanding the impact of emerging financial technologies
Leverage Digital Transformation and AI – Understand the role of emerging technologies, cybersecurity threats, and data privacy regulations in corporate strategy and governance
Foster Boardroom Effectiveness – Enhance communication, improve decision-making processes, and implement best practices for high-performing boards
Succession Planning – Learn how to build diverse board cultures, implement succession planning strategies, and foster inclusive leadership
Comprehensive curriculum
The program’s curriculum is delivered through live online and in-person sessions. Through engaging core modules, you will learn the best practices in corporate governance, hone your strategic management skills, understand how to navigate boardroom dynamics, and foster a culture of integrity within the boardroom. An immersive, in-person module will give you further insights into governance challenges as well as provide networking opportunities.
Immersive learning experience | On-campus sessions
5 days | November 10-14, 2025
The final module of this program is a five-day in-person experience on the Michigan Ross campus in Ann Arbor, Michigan. During this immersive experience, you will participate in simulations and apply the strategic concepts learned during the program. This module will allow you to participate in engaging and interactive sessions on governance challenges and opportunities. Additionally, on-campus networking will provide opportunities to build lasting connections with industry leaders from around the globe.
Program calendar
Date | Time | |
|---|---|---|
Pre work & introduction | June-July 2025 | |
Live online session 1 | August 7, 2025 | 11 AM -1 PM ET |
Live online session 2 | August 21, 2025 | 11 AM -1 PM ET |
Live online session 3 | September 4, 2025 | 11 AM -1 PM ET |
Live online session 4 | September 18, 2025 | 11 AM -1 PM ET |
Live online session 5 | October 2, 2025 | 11 AM -1 PM ET |
Live online session 6 | October 16, 2025 | 11 AM -1 PM ET |
On-campus sessions | November 10-14, 2025 |
Faculty
The program is designed and taught by renowned Michigan Ross faculty and industry leaders who have deep expertise in corporate governance, strategic management, and ethical leadership. They bring cutting-edge research, extensive industry experience, and insights into the skill set needed for success in modern boardrooms.
Faculty Director, Board Director Program; Assistant Clinical Professor of Business Administration and former Executive Director, Ross Online, Stephen M. Ross School of Business, University of Michigan
Mike Barger leads courses in entrepreneurship, early-stage business development, and leadership during organizational crises at the Ross School of Business while facilitating ...
Clinical Associate Professor of Strategy, Ross School of Business, University of Michigan
Brad Killaly teaches strategy at Michigan Ross and previously led the full-time MBA program to its highest rankings in over two decades. His research explores strategic issues...
Accenture Professor of Computer Information Systems; Professor of Technology and Operations, Michigan Ross, University of Michigan
Dr. M. S. Krishnan teaches technology and operations at Michigan Ross and serves as the faculty director of the Business+Tech initiative and CK Prahalad and India initiatives....
Dow Professor of Sustainable Science, Technology and Commerce; Professor of Business Economics and Public Policy, Michigan Ross, University of Michigan
Thomas P. Lyon is a leading authority on corporate environmental strategy, with joint appointments at the Ross School of Business and the School for Environment and Sustainabi...
Arthur Andersen Professor of Accounting; Area Chair of Accounting, Michigan Ross, University of Michigan
Christopher Williams is the Arthur Andersen Professor of accounting and serves as the area chair of accounting at Michigan Ross. His research focuses on the role of accounting...
Participant profile
The Board Director Program is suited for experienced executives across various industries and functions. It is particularly beneficial for:
Senior executives aspiring to serve on corporate or nonprofit boards and looking to drive long-term growth strategies
C-suite leaders and senior leaders seeking to transition to board roles, keen to understand best practices in corporate governance, and want to hone their strategic leadership and decision-making skills
Current board members looking to enhance their effectiveness by driving innovation and sustainability
Investors or advisors involved in board governance matters and are keen to stay ahead of changing global market trends and evolving regulatory landscapes
Certificate
Upon successful completion of the program, participants will be awarded a verified digital certificate by Michigan Ross Executive Education. The certificate will be a recognition of their achievement in the Board Director Program.
To qualify for the certificate, participants must attend a minimum of 5 live sessions and fully participate in the on-campus week. These requirements are in place to ensure meaningful engagement and a comprehensive learning experience.
Note: After successful completion of the program, your verified digital certificate will be emailed to you in the name you used when registering for the program. All certificate images are for illustrative purposes only and may be subject to change at the discretion of Michigan Ross.
Earn credentials
Upon successfully completing the program:
Receive a digital badge to showcase on LinkedIn and other social media platforms
Earn 2 credits toward the Distinguished Leader Certificate (DLC) which requires a total of 4 credits from qualifying in-person or online programs (only one eligible online program can be counted toward the DLC)
FAQs
Connect with a program advisor for a 1:1 session
Our program advisors have helped senior executives across the world choose the right program for their career goals. Schedule a 1:1 to get a deeper understanding on why the Board Director Program is the right fit for you.
Email: umib_bdp@emeritus.org
Phone: +971 80 0088601087 (U.A.E.) / +44 1377 310957 (U.K.) / +1 315 557 7286 (U.S.) / +52 55965 41726 (LATAM)
Early registrations are encouraged. Seats fill up quickly!
Flexible payment options available.
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