Authentic Leader Development

Executive participates in class discussion as fellow students actively listen

Discover and develop the qualities that define the highest level of authentic leadership: ironclad principles, a clear and unifying vision, and the ability to inspire trust and dedication in others.

The program fee covers tuition, program materials, accommodations, and most meals.

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Become like the leaders you most admire. In this program, you will uncover, analyze, and strengthen the unique characteristics that enable you to lead with authenticity and purpose.

Authentic Leader Development is a rich learning experience designed to spark self-reflection, innovation, and collaboration. You'll leave ready to inspire others to do their best work, create exceptional value for your company, and lead with greater passion and confidence.

Key Program Features

Key Topics

  • Analyze your formative experiences to find critical lessons that inform your authentic leadership

  • Align your motivations and capabilities—all while developing greater confidence in your abilities as a leader

  • Address your weaknesses and learn from feedback on what's holding you back.

  • Build an integrated and fulfilling life that balances work, relationships, and personal pursuits

  • Lead with integrity through pressure and challenges—all while remaining true to your values and purpose

  • Grow into a leader who fosters effective teamwork and guides individuals to realize their potential

Program Format

  • 6
    days on the HBS campus
  • 12–15
    hours of pre-program work

Please note that you will be asked to complete certain exercises and case preparation before the program begins to help you maximize the value of your time on campus. Case materials and a detailed schedule will be made available approximately two weeks prior to program start.

Who Should Attend

Authentic Leader Development is designed for both individuals and teams—benefitting all senior leaders who want to enhance their leadership ability and make an impact at a higher level within their organization.

The program's effect is amplified when multiple members of the same organization attend together and can continue supporting each other's development after the program ends.

Authentic Leader Development is a unique, and at times, emotional program structured around personal exploration. Getting the most out of the experience requires an open mind and readiness to share with peers in a deeply personal way. All information you share will remain strictly confidential.

Global Perspective

Two female and two male executives sit and smile around a table filled with notes.
7%
Africa
18%
Asia Pacific
17%
Europe
7%
Latin America
13%
Middle East
38%
North America

Top Industries Represented

  • 19%

    Financial

  • 11%

    Nonprofit Services

  • 9%

    High Technology

  • 6%

    Health Care

  • 6%

    Manufacturing

  • 6%

    Professional Services

  • 6%

    Raw Materials / Energy

  • 5%

    Real Estate / Construction

  • 4%

    Chem/Pharma/Bio

  • 4%

    Consumer Products

Experience

Years Worked

  • 4%

    Less than 10 years

  • 15%

    10-14 years

  • 20%

    15-19 years

  • 24%

    20-24 years

  • 20%

    25-29 years

  • 13%

    30-34 years

  • 3%

    35-39 years

  • 1%

    40 or more

Companies That Have Participated

  • Mastercard Incorporated
  • Meta
  • Microsoft
  • Nissan
  • Pricewaterhouse Coopers
  • Saudi Telecom
  • Sterling Bank
  • Suffolk
  • United Bank for Africa
  • Vivint
  • Zenith Bank

Teaching Team

All our executive education programs are developed and taught by a team of widely recognized HBS faculty. Many are skilled educators, groundbreaking researchers, and award-winning authors. Through their board memberships, consulting, and field-based research, they address the complex challenges facing business leaders across the globe.

Faculty Cochairs

The HBS Experience

This in-person program takes place on our storied campus where you'll live and learn at the heart of Boston's vibrant business, academic, and technology hubs.

At HBS, every detail is carefully calibrated to drive your success. Living arrangements and classrooms that spark connection. Unrivaled academic resources. And rejuvenating fitness, dining, and cultural amenities.

View of Executive Education area of HBS campus

The dedicated Executive Education area of campus features multiple classroom buildings and three residence halls around a quad

Residence hall bedroom and bathroom, with woman looking out a window

Our well-appointed residence halls feature private bedrooms, living group lounges, and courtyards to fuel vibrant discussions

Admissions

We admit applicants on a rolling, space-available basis, so you are encouraged to submit your application as soon as possible.

The selective admissions process is based on professional achievement, organizational responsibility, and the admissions criteria for each program as described in Who Should Attend. There are no formal educational requirements for HBS Executive Education programs.

Learn more about the admissions process and requirements.

Program content, dates, schedule, fees, technology platforms, and faculty are subject to change. In accordance with Harvard University policy, Harvard Business School does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, sex or sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, veteran status, or disability in admission to, access to, treatment in, or employment in its programs and activities.