Session Two Recap
Date: October 2, 2025 | Time: 3:00 PM UTC
Topic: Leading and Managing Your Executive Education Business in Today’s Turbulent Times
Panelists: Julian Birkinshaw (Dean, Ivey Business School, Western University), Sharmla Chetty (Chief Executive Officer, Duke Corporate Education), and Misiek Piskorski (Professor of Digital Strategy, Analytics and Innovation and Dean of Executive Education, IMD)
Why this conversation matters
In today’s turbulent environment, executive education leaders are being asked to deliver more impact under conditions of geopolitical volatility, rapid technological change, and shifting workforce needs. This session in the UNICON Webinar Series brought together leaders from Ivey, Duke CE, and IMD to discuss how schools can adapt programs, embrace AI thoughtfully, and prepare executives for a future of constant disruption.
Fast Takeaways for Leaders
- Geopolitics is shaping demand. Clients are asking for foresight and resilience strategies, with some schools running dedicated geopolitics programs.
- AI is both a tool and a disruptor. From AI coaches at IMD to Ivey’s ABLE platform, schools are experimenting with AI-enhanced learning—but human connection remains irreplaceable.
- Collaboration is rising. Schools are seeking partnerships to share capabilities, scale innovation, and respond to global client needs.
- Transversal skills are essential. Programs must go beyond technical knowledge to focus on adaptability, creativity, and collaboration.
- Future jobs require foresight. Executive education must help leaders anticipate AI-driven shifts in employment and design for green and digital transitions.
Geopolitics and Strategic Agility
Julian Birkinshaw shared that Canadian clients have been less directly affected by geopolitics, but Ivey is embedding strategic foresight into programs to prepare leaders for long-term uncertainty. Sharmla Chetty described how Duke CE shifted toward building long-term capability ecosystems in response to currency and tariff challenges across 84 countries. Misiek Piskorski noted that IMD has seen increased demand for geopolitics-focused programs, running more than 15 so far this year.
AI: Opportunity and Disruption
The panel explored AI’s growing role in executive education. IMD is testing AI coaches and advisors to extend learning impact at scale, while Ivey developed ABLE, a platform combining case-based learning with AI tools to sharpen critical thinking. Yet, speakers cautioned that AI can shortcut learning if not thoughtfully designed. As Misiek noted, “human-to-human transformation can’t be replaced.”
The Future of Jobs and Skills
Looking ahead, panelists highlighted the uncertainty AI brings to the job market. Julian observed that while opportunities will emerge, traditional graduate roles are already being disrupted. Misiek described IMD’s focus on 10 transversal skills—adaptability, problem-solving, creativity—that prepare leaders for jobs we cannot yet define. Sharmla emphasized aligning leadership programs with clients’ future needs, especially in green skills and sustainability leadership.
Meet the Speakers
Sharmla Chetty
Chief Executive Officer, Duke Corporate Education
Misiek Piskorski
Professor of Digital Strategy, Analytics and Innovation and Dean of Executive Education, IMD
What’s Next?
Continue the conversation in our upcoming webinars and special group sessions throughout this month, and join peers at the Team Development Conference (TDC) later this year.
Looking ahead to 2026, Misiek Piskorski announced that IMD will host the UNICON Directors Conference. Save the date — registration will open soon via the UNICON events page.
