14 OCT 2023–13 JAN 2024 — Module 3 (Virtual, Self-Paced)
14–26 JAN 2024 — Module 4 (HBS Campus)
Program Announcement
Thank you for your interest in this program. The 29 NOV 2022–30 JUN 2023 session currently is near capacity. You may wish to consider applying soon.
Summary
Innovative companies know that long-term success requires a pipeline of visionary
leaders who can help build and secure a competitive edge. The Program for Leadership
Development (PLD) prepares emerging executives to become more effective influencers
who can contribute to corporate success on a higher level.
This highly personalized program features two on-campus and two virtual, self-paced
modules that focus on accelerating your business and your career. You will return
to your organization more confident, more capable, and better equipped to take on
new challenges.
Innovative companies know that long-term success requires a pipeline of visionary
leaders who can help build and secure a competitive edge. The Program for Leadership
Development (PLD) prepares emerging executives to become more effective influencers
who can contribute to corporate success on a higher level.
This highly personalized program features two on-campus and two virtual, self-paced
modules that focus on accelerating your business and your career. You will return
to your organization more confident, more capable, and better equipped to take on
new challenges.
Key Benefits
This leadership development program improves your decision-making and cross-functional
skills by expanding your understanding of business operations and the global marketplace.
With broader business knowledge, global perspectives, and leadership insights, you
will be ready to create an agile culture that embraces digital transformation and
implement strategies that drive breakthrough innovation.
This leadership development program improves your decision-making and cross-functional
skills by expanding your understanding of business operations and the global marketplace.
With broader business knowledge, global perspectives, and leadership insights, you
will be ready to create an agile culture that embraces digital transformation and
implement strategies that drive breakthrough innovation.
Master the cross-functional challenges of corporate leadership
Lead organizational change and inspire high-performing global teams
Develop a personal leadership philosophy and presence that reflect greater confidence
and capabilities
Capitalize on the opportunities unleashed by digital transformation
Formulate a detailed action plan to address your strategic and leadership challenges
Build enduring bonds with accomplished peers who span functions, industries, and countries
Take the first step toward becoming a member of the global HBS alumni community
Specialists and star contributors with at least 10 to 15 years of work experience
who have been identified as outstanding prospects for increased leadership responsibilities
Managers from any business function and at any level, from project leaders to vice
presidents
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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Experience
Years worked
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Specialists and star contributors with at least 10 to 15 years of work experience
who have been identified as outstanding prospects for increased leadership responsibilities
Managers from any business function and at any level, from project leaders to vice
presidents
Global Perspective
Experience the world in your classroom.
/Lists/Infographics/EditForm.aspx?ID=12
Top Industries Represented
Insights from a range of industries ignite your thinking.
/Lists/Infographics/EditForm.aspx?ID=13
Experience
Years worked
/Lists/Infographics/EditForm.aspx?ID=14
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
PLD is a highly structured yet deeply personalized experience. From the careful selection
of living group members and new HBS case studies to professional executive coaching
for individuals and teams, every aspect is designed to foster collaborative learning
and accelerate personal growth.
PLD is a highly structured yet deeply personalized experience. From the careful selection
of living group members and new HBS case studies to professional executive coaching
for individuals and teams, every aspect is designed to foster collaborative learning
and accelerate personal growth.
Completing the four core modules of PLD puts you on the path to achieving HBS alumni
status. You can become a lifetime member of the HBS alumni community by selecting
one of three options:
As part of the HBS alumni network, you gain exclusive access to our vast global alumni network and an array of resources
that facilitate lifelong learning, growth, and success.
Completing the four core modules of PLD puts you on the path to achieving HBS alumni
status. You can become a lifetime member of the HBS alumni community by selecting
one of three options:
As part of the HBS alumni network, you gain exclusive access to our vast global alumni network and an array of resources
that facilitate lifelong learning, growth, and success.
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 Program for Leadership Development
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 think in new ways about their business and their contribution.
The curious, open-minded executive who commits wholeheartedly will find the program
to be a highly stimulating, rewarding—even life-changing—experience.
To apply and be considered for this program, you must submit both components below:
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
Applications will be considered on a rolling, space-available basis. Both your application
and letter of reference must be submitted before the admissions committee can review.
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.
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.
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 $52,000 program fee covers tuition, books, case materials, accommodations, and
most meals.
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 Program for Leadership Development
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 think in new ways about their business and their contribution.
The curious, open-minded executive who commits wholeheartedly will find the program
to be a highly stimulating, rewarding—even life-changing—experience.
To apply and be considered for this program, you must submit both components below:
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
Applications will be considered on a rolling, space-available basis. Both your application
and letter of reference must be submitted before the admissions committee can review.
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.
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 $52,000 program fee covers tuition, books, case materials, accommodations, and
most meals.
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
Focused on leadership, change, and innovation, the Program for Leadership Development
curriculum is built around four highly integrated modules. In on-campus or live online
modules, you will engage in faculty presentations, case studies, personal assessments,
individual and group exercises, and special projects. Through a customized case and
professional HBS Executive Coaching, you will develop a personal action plan for tapping
new revenue sources and navigating global market shifts.
The virtual, self-paced modules feature Harvard Business School Online—a powerful digital platform that captures the dynamism of the HBS classroom, connects
you to a global network of peers, and provides exclusive access to a wealth of interactive
learning tools.
After completing the four modules, you will be eligible to attend PLD Module 5—an optional two-week session on campus that further accelerates your development
as a leader and enables you to achieve HBS alumni status.
Focused on leadership, change, and innovation, the Program for Leadership Development
curriculum is built around four highly integrated modules. In on-campus or live online
modules, you will engage in faculty presentations, case studies, personal assessments,
individual and group exercises, and special projects. Through a customized case and
professional HBS Executive Coaching, you will develop a personal action plan for tapping
new revenue sources and navigating global market shifts.
The virtual, self-paced modules feature Harvard Business School Online—a powerful digital platform that captures the dynamism of the HBS classroom, connects
you to a global network of peers, and provides exclusive access to a wealth of interactive
learning tools.
After completing the four modules, you will be eligible to attend PLD Module 5—an optional two-week session on campus that further accelerates your development
as a leader and enables you to achieve HBS alumni status.
An immersive four-module 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. Your living group will stimulate
your learning each day as you:
Share global insights with peer executives who span functions, cultures, and countries
Consider diverse 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
Focused on accelerating individual and team growth, your professional coach will help
you identify your leadership strengths and gaps through one-on-one and group coaching,
a 360-degree leadership and personal assessment, and customized feedback. You will
emerge with greater self-awareness, understanding, and confidence—as well as a customized
action plan for achieving your leadership goals.
A customized, 360-degree assessment of your current skills provides insight into your
leadership and management strengths as well as areas for improvement.
The My HBS Leadership Case is the cornerstone of the PLD learning experience. In Module
2, you will address a performance gap or strategic opportunity facing your organization
by building a comprehensive strategy and implementation plan. Throughout the program,
the faculty, your living group, and your professional HBS Executive Coach will deliver
feedback that will help you fine-tune your personal action plan.
During Module 4, your living group will compete to find a winning solution to a current
business challenge brought to the program by one of our alumni. Building on your coursework
in innovation and collaboration, you will leverage your group's unique talents and,
in the process, learn how to lead diverse teams in a global context. In Module 3,
your living group coach and project faculty advisor will be available to provide feedback
via a dedicated portal, online meeting rooms, and teleconferencing to help you prepare
for the competition in Module 4.
An immersive four-module 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. Your living group will stimulate
your learning each day as you:
Share global insights with peer executives who span functions, cultures, and countries
Consider diverse 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
Focused on accelerating individual and team growth, your professional coach will help
you identify your leadership strengths and gaps through one-on-one and group coaching,
a 360-degree leadership and personal assessment, and customized feedback. You will
emerge with greater self-awareness, understanding, and confidence—as well as a customized
action plan for achieving your leadership goals.
Leadership Learning Path Assessment
A customized, 360-degree assessment of your current skills provides insight into your
leadership and management strengths as well as areas for improvement.
Individual project: My HBS Leadership Case
The My HBS Leadership Case is the cornerstone of the PLD learning experience. In Module
2, you will address a performance gap or strategic opportunity facing your organization
by building a comprehensive strategy and implementation plan. Throughout the program,
the faculty, your living group, and your professional HBS Executive Coach will deliver
feedback that will help you fine-tune your personal action plan.
Team project: Alumni Challenge
During Module 4, your living group will compete to find a winning solution to a current
business challenge brought to the program by one of our alumni. Building on your coursework
in innovation and collaboration, you will leverage your group's unique talents and,
in the process, learn how to lead diverse teams in a global context. In Module 3,
your living group coach and project faculty advisor will be available to provide feedback
via a dedicated portal, online meeting rooms, and teleconferencing to help you prepare
for the competition in Module 4.
The HBS Advantage
The Program for Leadership Development 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.
The Program for Leadership Development 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.
The Program for Leadership Development (PLD) learning experience is designed to fast-track
your career by addressing your unique leadership objectives, business challenges,
and professional development goals. You will become a more agile leader ready to identify
problems, craft effective solutions, and adapt to global market shifts.
Focused on leadership, change, and innovation, PLD features three integral components
that contribute to your personal and professional transformation:
The My HBS Leadership Case enables you to address a specific challenge in your organization
by developing and refining an in-depth strategy and implementation plan throughout
the program
A competitive Alumni Challenge fosters global teamwork as you and your living group
collaborate online to solve a real-world business issue
One-on-one professional HBS Executive Coaching sessions and facilitated team meetings
help you realize your true leadership potential
The Program for Leadership Development (PLD) learning experience is designed to fast-track
your career by addressing your unique leadership objectives, business challenges,
and professional development goals. You will become a more agile leader ready to identify
problems, craft effective solutions, and adapt to global market shifts.
Focused on leadership, change, and innovation, PLD features three integral components
that contribute to your personal and professional transformation:
The My HBS Leadership Case enables you to address a specific challenge in your organization
by developing and refining an in-depth strategy and implementation plan throughout
the program
A competitive Alumni Challenge fosters global teamwork as you and your living group
collaborate online to solve a real-world business issue
One-on-one professional HBS Executive Coaching sessions and facilitated team meetings
help you realize your true leadership potential
Fast-Track Your Career
PLD is an accelerated alternative to an executive MBA (EMBA) for proven executives
who seek to play a greater role in corporate success. The program is ideally suited
for specialists or star contributors with at least 10 to 15 years of work experience
who are considered outstanding prospects for increased leadership responsibilities.
PLD equips you with a broader understanding of core business functions and deeper
confidence in your decision-making skills. You will emerge with a personal action
plan for advancing your leadership goals—and strengthening your company's competitive
edge.
PLD is an accelerated alternative to an executive MBA (EMBA) for proven executives
who seek to play a greater role in corporate success. The program is ideally suited
for specialists or star contributors with at least 10 to 15 years of work experience
who are considered outstanding prospects for increased leadership responsibilities.
PLD equips you with a broader understanding of core business functions and deeper
confidence in your decision-making skills. You will emerge with a personal action
plan for advancing your leadership goals—and strengthening your company's competitive
edge.
In-Depth Curriculum, Long-Term Results
The rigorous PLD curriculum is tailored to achieve a singular goal—accelerate the
development of emerging business leaders. Delivered via four intensive modules that
take place over the course of six months, the compressed format is designed with your
responsibilities in mind:
Module 1: Foundational skill building (virtual, self-paced)
Module 2: Cross-functional business approach (HBS campus)
Module 3: Strategy formulation and implementation (virtual, self-paced)
Module 4: Leading change (HBS campus)
The two on-campus modules require a total of four weeks away from your job. After
completing the four modules, you also will have the opportunity to achieve HBS alumni
status* during PLD Module 5, an optional, two-week capstone session.
*You also can attain alumni status by earning a total of 10 PLD Alumni Points by completing
other qualifying HBS Executive Education programs. View all qualifying programs.
The rigorous PLD curriculum is tailored to achieve a singular goal—accelerate the
development of emerging business leaders. Delivered via four intensive modules that
take place over the course of six months, the compressed format is designed with your
responsibilities in mind:
Module 1: Foundational skill building (virtual, self-paced)
Module 2: Cross-functional business approach (HBS campus)
Module 3: Strategy formulation and implementation (virtual, self-paced)
Module 4: Leading change (HBS campus)
The two on-campus modules require a total of four weeks away from your job. After
completing the four modules, you also will have the opportunity to achieve HBS alumni
status* during PLD Module 5, an optional, two-week capstone session.
*You also can attain alumni status by earning a total of 10 PLD Alumni Points by completing
other qualifying HBS Executive Education programs. View all qualifying programs.
