23 SEP–21 OCT 2023 — Module 3 (Virtual, Self-Paced)
22 OCT–17 NOV 2023 — Module 4 (HBS Campus)
Summary
Taking your organization and your career to the next level requires going beyond your
field of expertise to gain an end-to-end view of the enterprise, an in-depth understanding
of business operations, and a multidisciplinary approach to leadership.
The General Management Program (GMP) accelerates this leadership transition by blending
full-time, personalized learning with practical application on the job—maximizing
your learning and your return on investment.
Taking your organization and your career to the next level requires going beyond your
field of expertise to gain an end-to-end view of the enterprise, an in-depth understanding
of business operations, and a multidisciplinary approach to leadership.
The General Management Program (GMP) accelerates this leadership transition by blending
full-time, personalized learning with practical application on the job—maximizing
your learning and your return on investment.
Key Benefits
GMP's four highly integrated modules are designed to broaden your business perspective,
management expertise, and leadership skills. You will learn how to identify, frame,
and solve complex business problems; build cooperation among disciplines; and drive
innovation and organizational change.
Focused on strategy, leadership, and the organization, the program delivers the tools
you need to capitalize on technological disruption and digital transformation and
play a more strategic role in corporate success. This includes:
GMP's four highly integrated modules are designed to broaden your business perspective,
management expertise, and leadership skills. You will learn how to identify, frame,
and solve complex business problems; build cooperation among disciplines; and drive
innovation and organizational change.
Focused on strategy, leadership, and the organization, the program delivers the tools
you need to capitalize on technological disruption and digital transformation and
play a more strategic role in corporate success. This includes:
Considering global and industry forces when setting your organization's strategic
direction
Building a creative culture that is open to change and digital connectivity
Continuing to grow as an agile leader by building on powerful insights gained through
professional coaching
Formulating a detailed personal action plan to address your strategic and leadership
challenges
Building enduring bonds with accomplished peers who span functions, industries, and
countries
GMP is designed for senior executives with at least 15 to 20 years of experience who
are looking to expand their knowledge and influence, so they can make a greater impact
on their organization and advance their personal goals. Ideal candidates include:
Leaders with profit and loss responsibility
Senior executives whose functional role is significantly expanding
Global Perspective
Experience the world in your classroom.
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Top Industries Represented
Insights from a range of industries ignite your thinking.
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Executive Status
Levels from CEO
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Education
Highest level attained
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Experience
Years worked
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GMP is designed for senior executives with at least 15 to 20 years of experience who
are looking to expand their knowledge and influence, so they can make a greater impact
on their organization and advance their personal goals. Ideal candidates include:
Leaders with profit and loss responsibility
Senior executives whose functional role is significantly expanding
Global Perspective
Experience the world in your classroom.
/Lists/Infographics/EditForm.aspx?ID=7
Top Industries Represented
Insights from a range of industries ignite your thinking.
/Lists/Infographics/EditForm.aspx?ID=8
Executive Status
Levels from CEO
/Lists/Infographics/EditForm.aspx?ID=9
Education
Highest level attained
/Lists/Infographics/EditForm.aspx?ID=10
Experience
Years worked
/Lists/Infographics/EditForm.aspx?ID=11
Just as HBS pioneered the case study method, we also built the first live online classroom
in 2014 and have been refining and optimizing our virtual program experience ever
since. In a world that is now centered around virtual connection, our programs reflect
the input and experience of tens of thousands of participants.
When you participate in a virtual HBS Executive Education program, you benefit from
a powerful learning experience carefully designed with a virtual setting in mind.
Through live, synchronous program sessions you'll engage directly with our renowned
faculty to learn from their latest research, gain actionable takeaways, and facilitate
your growth. In addition, virtual discussion groups will connect you to a global group
of peers and build your network.
Just as HBS pioneered the case study method, we also built the first live online classroom
in 2014 and have been refining and optimizing our virtual program experience ever
since. In a world that is now centered around virtual connection, our programs reflect
the input and experience of tens of thousands of participants.
When you participate in a virtual HBS Executive Education program, you benefit from
a powerful learning experience carefully designed with a virtual setting in mind.
Through live, synchronous program sessions you'll engage directly with our renowned
faculty to learn from their latest research, gain actionable takeaways, and facilitate
your growth. In addition, virtual discussion groups will connect you to a global group
of peers and build your network.
Learning and Living at HBS
When you participate in an Executive Education program on the HBS campus, you enter an immersive experience where every aspect of the learning model has been carefully designed to facilitate your growth. Your learning will take place
on your own, in your learning/living group, and in the larger classroom, driven by
the renowned HBS case method.
When you participate in an Executive Education program on the HBS campus, you enter an immersive experience where every aspect of the learning model has been carefully designed to facilitate your growth. Your learning will take place
on your own, in your learning/living group, and in the larger classroom, driven by
the renowned HBS case method.
Upon completing the General Management Program, you will become a lifetime member
of the HBS alumni community—gaining exclusive access to our vast global alumni network
and an array of resources that facilitate lifelong learning, growth, and success.
Learn more.
Upon completing the General Management Program, you will become a lifetime member
of the HBS alumni community—gaining exclusive access to our vast global alumni network
and an array of resources that facilitate lifelong learning, growth, and success.
Learn more.
Admissions Criteria and Process
We admit candidates to specific sessions on a rolling, space-available basis, and
encourage you to apply as early as possible. Although the General Management Program
has no formal educational requirements, admission is a selective process based on
your professional achievement and organizational responsibilities.
We select applicants who embrace challenges, seek genuine personal and professional
growth, and are ready to innovate—in themselves and in their organizations. The curious,
open-minded executive who commits wholeheartedly will find the program to be a highly
stimulating, rewarding—even life-changing—experience.
To apply, you will submit:
The application, telling us about your experience, your organization, and your current
responsibilities, goals, and challenges
A letter of reference from someone familiar with your work
To review both the application and letter of reference, download the Application PDF.
You can submit your application via our online Application Form or by returning a
completed PDF. When submitting the online application form, you will be asked for
the email address of the individual serving as your reference. That individual will
receive an email with a link to an online letter of reference form.
Answering Your Questions
Our Program Advising team can help you at any stage of the admissions process—starting
with identifying the program that best addresses your learning and development goals.
Contact a program advisor via email or call 1.800.427.5577 (outside the U.S., call +1.617.495.6555).
Letter of Reference
To gain a deeper understanding of your background and your potential as a leader,
we require a letter of reference from a senior executive within your organization,
a board member, or an HBS graduate familiar with your role and responsibilities. To
submit the letter, follow the instructions in your application.
English Proficiency
Proficiency in spoken and written English is essential for active participation in
fast-moving classes and small group discussions.
Learning Commitment
Classes during Modules 2 and 4 are held six days a week. Your active participation
in all classroom sessions, case discussions, and other program activities is essential.
You must be free of other responsibilities during the full-time modules. Residency
on campus is required for Module 4.
Application Submission
We recommend that you apply as soon as you can, and at least four weeks before the
program start date. You may use our online form or download an application. HBS maintains
all application information in strict confidentiality. We acknowledge receipt of applications
via email. In the unlikely event that you do not receive an acknowledgment, please
email us at exed_admissions@hbs.edu or call us at +1.617.495.6226.
Application Review
To optimize the learning experience and maximize the exchange of ideas, our Admissions
Committee makes selections that balance each participant's experience, scope of current
responsibilities, and type of organization. HBS seeks candidates who reflect a broad
range of industries, functions, countries, and backgrounds. We review applications
monthly and will contact you via email with the Admissions Committee's decision.
Fee, Payment, and Cancellations
The program fee covers tuition, books, and case materials, as well as accommodations
and most meals for the on-campus module. You will be invoiced upon admission to the
program. Invoices are due within 30 days of receipt, or upon receipt if the program
start date is less than 30 days from the invoice date. If you need to cancel or defer
your participation, you must submit your request in writing more than 30 days before
the start of the program to receive a full refund. Cancellation or deferral requests
received 14 to 30 days prior to the start of the program are subject to a fee of one-half
of the program fee. Requests received within 14 days are subject to full payment.
A limited amount of partial scholarship funding may be available for qualified applicants
from not-for-profit organizations. Please include a request for funding in your application.
We admit candidates to specific sessions on a rolling, space-available basis, and
encourage you to apply as early as possible. Although the General Management Program
has no formal educational requirements, admission is a selective process based on
your professional achievement and organizational responsibilities.
The Application Process
We select applicants who embrace challenges, seek genuine personal and professional
growth, and are ready to innovate—in themselves and in their organizations. The curious,
open-minded executive who commits wholeheartedly will find the program to be a highly
stimulating, rewarding—even life-changing—experience.
To apply, you will submit:
The application, telling us about your experience, your organization, and your current
responsibilities, goals, and challenges
A letter of reference from someone familiar with your work
To review both the application and letter of reference, download the Application PDF.
You can submit your application via our online Application Form or by returning a
completed PDF. When submitting the online application form, you will be asked for
the email address of the individual serving as your reference. That individual will
receive an email with a link to an online letter of reference form.
Answering Your Questions
Our Program Advising team can help you at any stage of the admissions process—starting
with identifying the program that best addresses your learning and development goals.
Contact a program advisor via email or call 1.800.427.5577 (outside the U.S., call +1.617.495.6555).
Letter of Reference
To gain a deeper understanding of your background and your potential as a leader,
we require a letter of reference from a senior executive within your organization,
a board member, or an HBS graduate familiar with your role and responsibilities. To
submit the letter, follow the instructions in your application.
English Proficiency
Proficiency in spoken and written English is essential for active participation in
fast-moving classes and small group discussions.
Learning Commitment
Classes during Modules 2 and 4 are held six days a week. Your active participation
in all classroom sessions, case discussions, and other program activities is essential.
You must be free of other responsibilities during the full-time modules. Residency
on campus is required for Module 4.
Application Submission
We recommend that you apply as soon as you can, and at least four weeks before the
program start date. You may use our online form or download an application. HBS maintains
all application information in strict confidentiality. We acknowledge receipt of applications
via email. In the unlikely event that you do not receive an acknowledgment, please
email us at exed_admissions@hbs.edu or call us at +1.617.495.6226.
Application Review
To optimize the learning experience and maximize the exchange of ideas, our Admissions
Committee makes selections that balance each participant's experience, scope of current
responsibilities, and type of organization. HBS seeks candidates who reflect a broad
range of industries, functions, countries, and backgrounds. We review applications
monthly and will contact you via email with the Admissions Committee's decision.
Fee, Payment, and Cancellations
The program fee covers tuition, books, and case materials, as well as accommodations
and most meals for the on-campus module. You will be invoiced upon admission to the
program. Invoices are due within 30 days of receipt, or upon receipt if the program
start date is less than 30 days from the invoice date. If you need to cancel or defer
your participation, you must submit your request in writing more than 30 days before
the start of the program to receive a full refund. Cancellation or deferral requests
received 14 to 30 days prior to the start of the program are subject to a fee of one-half
of the program fee. Requests received within 14 days are subject to full payment.
A limited amount of partial scholarship funding may be available for qualified applicants
from not-for-profit organizations. Please include a request for funding in your application.
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.
What You Will Learn
The General Management Program provides a highly integrated, multidisciplinary view
of strategy, leadership, and the organization. Blending practical business knowledge
with personalized learning, 360-degree leadership and personal assessments, as well
as individual projects, the program engages you in a dynamic exchange with the HBS
faculty, a professional HBS Executive Coach, and a diverse group of senior executives
from around the world.
Designed to expand your leadership skills, mindset, and network, the General Management
Program requires just seven weeks away from the office over the course of four months.
You will alternate between full-time, rigorous modules and part-time, self-paced modules
that provide the opportunity to apply new insights at work. Through this proven "learn-apply-refine"
approach, you can prepare for the challenges and opportunities ahead while moving
forward in your current role.
The General Management Program provides a highly integrated, multidisciplinary view
of strategy, leadership, and the organization. Blending practical business knowledge
with personalized learning, 360-degree leadership and personal assessments, as well
as individual projects, the program engages you in a dynamic exchange with the HBS
faculty, a professional HBS Executive Coach, and a diverse group of senior executives
from around the world.
Designed to expand your leadership skills, mindset, and network, the General Management
Program requires just seven weeks away from the office over the course of four months.
You will alternate between full-time, rigorous modules and part-time, self-paced modules
that provide the opportunity to apply new insights at work. Through this proven "learn-apply-refine"
approach, you can prepare for the challenges and opportunities ahead while moving
forward in your current role.
Format: Virtual, live online learning (3 weeks, full-time)*
Enhance your analytical skills and expand your knowledge of accounting, financial
management, strategy formulation, innovation, leadership, marketing, operations, and
negotiations
Learn to recognize and diagnose problems, quickly generate and assess options, and
identify and activate winning strategies
Develop a strategy for immediately applying your knowledge to your organization and
gain input from experts and peers
Set aside 40 to 50 hours per week to complete class sessions, learning group discussions,
case study preparation, coaching, and faculty office hours
*Participants will be grouped into two sections based on preferred class times for
virtual class sessions.
Virtual learning group discussions will take place from 7:45 AM to 8:45 AM ET.
Both sections will attend a joint session, on the Zoom platform, from 9:00 AM to 10:30
AM ET, Monday through Friday. The joint sessions will cover a range of formats: guest
speakers, group work, and networking.
Section A will attend class sessions from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM ET and Section B will
attend class sessions from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM ET. Classes will take place Monday through
Friday.
Faculty office hours, coaching, and case study preparation will take place outside
of the class sessions referenced above.
Please note that session start and end times may be slightly adjusted and final confirmation
will be given during Module 1.
Expand your ability to think about the macro picture and consider global and industry
forces when making strategic decisions
Prepare to help your organization capitalize on technological disruption, digital
transformation, strategic pricing, and other evolving trends
Enhance your executive presence by reviewing your assessment results with your personal
coach, evaluating your leadership abilities, and identifying areas for improvement
Present your customized case to your learning group and finalize your personal action
plan
Complete self-directed assignments using a mix of online, print, and audio materials
Strengthen core business knowledge in financial management, strategy formulation,
and accounting
Gain an understanding of the HBS learning environment, common terminology, and case-based
learning
Set aside 15 to 20 hours per week to complete this work during the four weeks leading
up to Module 2
Module 2: Broaden your perspective and elevate your expertise
Format: Virtual, live online learning (3 weeks, full-time)*
Enhance your analytical skills and expand your knowledge of accounting, financial
management, strategy formulation, innovation, leadership, marketing, operations, and
negotiations
Learn to recognize and diagnose problems, quickly generate and assess options, and
identify and activate winning strategies
Develop a strategy for immediately applying your knowledge to your organization and
gain input from experts and peers
Set aside 40 to 50 hours per week to complete class sessions, learning group discussions,
case study preparation, coaching, and faculty office hours
*Participants will be grouped into two sections based on preferred class times for
virtual class sessions.
Virtual learning group discussions will take place from 7:45 AM to 8:45 AM ET.
Both sections will attend a joint session, on the Zoom platform, from 9:00 AM to 10:30
AM ET, Monday through Friday. The joint sessions will cover a range of formats: guest
speakers, group work, and networking.
Section A will attend class sessions from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM ET and Section B will
attend class sessions from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM ET. Classes will take place Monday through
Friday.
Faculty office hours, coaching, and case study preparation will take place outside
of the class sessions referenced above.
Please note that session start and end times may be slightly adjusted and final confirmation
will be given during Module 1.
Module 3: Put your knowledge into action
Format: Virtual, self-paced learning while you apply new insights at work (4 weeks, part-time)
Complete various self-directed assignments and assessments and gather 360-degree feedback
from your peers and manager
Transform your personal strategy statement into a detailed personal action plan
Develop a business case study that focuses on a personal business challenge
Share your personal strategy statement, action plan, and business case with your manager
and team and gather their feedback
Learning Group meeting with Executive Coach
One 1:1 meeting with Executive Coach
Set aside 15 to 20 hours per week to complete this work during the four weeks leading
up to Module 4
Module 4: Maximize your leadership impact
Format: On the HBS campus (4 weeks, full-time)
Expand your ability to think about the macro picture and consider global and industry
forces when making strategic decisions
Prepare to help your organization capitalize on technological disruption, digital
transformation, strategic pricing, and other evolving trends
Enhance your executive presence by reviewing your assessment results with your personal
coach, evaluating your leadership abilities, and identifying areas for improvement
Present your customized case to your learning group and finalize your personal action
plan
An immersive four-month program creates the opportunity to build close, trusting relationships
with a small, diverse group of senior executives who can understand your challenges—but
are not part of your organization. In Modules 1-3, you will be placed into a learning
group based on your preferred virtual meeting and virtual class times. During Module
4, you will be placed in a new learning group to further expand and diversify your
network. Your new learning group will be housed together in custom design accommodations,
featuring private suites around a spacious common area. Throughout the program, you
will:
Share global insights with peer executives who span functions, cultures, and countries
Consider wide-ranging perspectives as you discuss cases and assignments
Complete small group exercises and collaborate on projects as a team
Exchange feedback—both personal and professional—in a safe environment
Our distinctive coaching method is designed to accelerate both individual and team
growth. During Modules 2-4 of the program, your learning group will meet with a professional
HBS Executive Coach to help enhance your leadership journey and team effectiveness.
Your coach will help you identify your personal leadership strengths and gaps through
two one-on-one sessions—one 360-degree leadership and personal assessment session
at the start of the program and another session focused on your reentry strategy following
the program. All coaching sessions are strictly confidential, giving you the freedom
to share your personal goals and professional challenges.
The program personalizes your learning with multiple projects designed to help you
apply your new skills to real-life strategy and leadership challenges. Over the course
of GMP, you will work on solving a fundamental challenge facing you and your organization.
Through this exercise, you will:
Gain greater insight into your industry and your company's competitive position
Improve your ability to clearly communicate issues to peers and garner their input
Learn how to drive change and innovation by aligning the appropriate resources and
activities
Identify and prepare for potential roadblocks and leadership challenges that may arise
as you work to implement your strategy
Build a network of GMP peer advisors who can apply their unique knowledge and background
to your challenge
You will have a unique opportunity to hear from distinguished guest speakers—often
the case protagonists—who share how they overcame diverse business and leadership
challenges.
During GMP, you will build rewarding and enduring relationships with a diverse group
of accomplished executive peers. This vibrant and powerful global network will continue
to grow as you tap into faculty-led webinars, leadership renewal programs, and GMP
reunions and workshops.
An immersive four-month program creates the opportunity to build close, trusting relationships
with a small, diverse group of senior executives who can understand your challenges—but
are not part of your organization. In Modules 1-3, you will be placed into a learning
group based on your preferred virtual meeting and virtual class times. During Module
4, you will be placed in a new learning group to further expand and diversify your
network. Your new learning group will be housed together in custom design accommodations,
featuring private suites around a spacious common area. Throughout the program, you
will:
Share global insights with peer executives who span functions, cultures, and countries
Consider wide-ranging perspectives as you discuss cases and assignments
Complete small group exercises and collaborate on projects as a team
Exchange feedback—both personal and professional—in a safe environment
HBS executive coaching
Our distinctive coaching method is designed to accelerate both individual and team
growth. During Modules 2-4 of the program, your learning group will meet with a professional
HBS Executive Coach to help enhance your leadership journey and team effectiveness.
Your coach will help you identify your personal leadership strengths and gaps through
two one-on-one sessions—one 360-degree leadership and personal assessment session
at the start of the program and another session focused on your reentry strategy following
the program. All coaching sessions are strictly confidential, giving you the freedom
to share your personal goals and professional challenges.
Personal strategy statement, action plan, and business case
The program personalizes your learning with multiple projects designed to help you
apply your new skills to real-life strategy and leadership challenges. Over the course
of GMP, you will work on solving a fundamental challenge facing you and your organization.
Through this exercise, you will:
Gain greater insight into your industry and your company's competitive position
Improve your ability to clearly communicate issues to peers and garner their input
Learn how to drive change and innovation by aligning the appropriate resources and
activities
Identify and prepare for potential roadblocks and leadership challenges that may arise
as you work to implement your strategy
Build a network of GMP peer advisors who can apply their unique knowledge and background
to your challenge
Powerful lineup of industry guest speakers
You will have a unique opportunity to hear from distinguished guest speakers—often
the case protagonists—who share how they overcame diverse business and leadership
challenges.
The GMP network
During GMP, you will build rewarding and enduring relationships with a diverse group
of accomplished executive peers. This vibrant and powerful global network will continue
to grow as you tap into faculty-led webinars, leadership renewal programs, and GMP
reunions and workshops.
The HBS Advantage
The General Management Program is developed and taught by a multidisciplinary team
of HBS faculty who are widely recognized as 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.
HBS faculty members have enduring relationships with some of the world's most distinguished
leaders—and many of those invited to speak are the protagonists in the cases being
studied during the program. These inspiring sessions, often considered once-in-a-lifetime
highlights of the program, deepen the learning experience and give you firsthand insights
into how top executives have overcome critical business and leadership challenges.
The General Management Program is developed and taught by a multidisciplinary team
of HBS faculty who are widely recognized as 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.
HBS faculty members have enduring relationships with some of the world's most distinguished
leaders—and many of those invited to speak are the protagonists in the cases being
studied during the program. These inspiring sessions, often considered once-in-a-lifetime
highlights of the program, deepen the learning experience and give you firsthand insights
into how top executives have overcome critical business and leadership challenges.
