Darden is known for its transformational learning experiences. But, how does Darden’s Enterprise Perspective approach help leaders in reaching their organizations’ strategic goals? Lisa Cannell (MBA ’17), Managing Director for Client Solutions, shares her perspective as a former HR leader and Darden MBA grad who now works with corporate and association clients who partner with Darden on leadership development.
So, what exactly is an enterprise perspective? It’s the ability to comprehend the intricate inner workings of a business, to see the grand tapestry of interconnected departments and to fathom the bigger picture. Essentially, it transforms leaders into strategic navigators capable of steering their organization to greater heights.
Here’s why empowering leaders with an enterprise perspective is pivotal:
- Enhanced Problem Solving: With a well-developed enterprise perspective, leaders can diagnose issues across the organization. They become a go-to in times of crisis and adept at addressing challenges at their roots, whether it’s a logistical bottleneck, a customer service hiccup, or a marketing misstep. The result? Efficient and effective solutions.
- Leadership Advancement: Leaders are the backbone of an organization. Fostering an enterprise perspective sets them apart as forward-thinkers who can align teams and drive results. It’s the secret sauce for propelling them into more significant roles and responsibilities.
- Informed Decision-Making: Leaders equipped with an enterprise perspective make informed decisions. They weigh the consequences of their choices on different facets of the business, ensuring that every move aligns with strategic goals.
- Improved Communication: In the corporate world, miscommunication can be a formidable adversary. Leaders fluent in the language of the enterprise bridge communication gaps effortlessly. They are the translators who ensure that information flows seamlessly across departments.
- Agility: In today’s dynamic business landscape, adaptability is key to survival. Leaders with an enterprise perspective are agile decision-makers who can pivot swiftly in response to market shifts and organizational changes.
- Cultivation of Innovation: The ability to see the big picture often sparks innovation. Leaders with an enterprise perspective are keen observers, always on the lookout for opportunities to enhance processes, explore new markets, or develop innovative products and services.
- Heightened Job Satisfaction: Leaders who understand the impact of their decisions on the entire organization tend to find greater satisfaction in their roles. Their work becomes more meaningful, as they see themselves as contributors to our company’s overall success.
Here is how Darden Executive Education & Lifelong Learning helps to develop an Enterprise Perspective:
- Immersive Cohort Experiences: Programs focused on strategic thinking, business acumen, and leadership development.
- Cross-Functional Projects: Integrated into a program, cross-functional projects help leaders to gain practical experience and broaden their horizons.
- Networking: Program break-out sessions and extra-curricular activities facilitate opportunities for leaders to connect with peers from across the organization.
- Faculty approach: (see below)
