Rise of digital leadership: Trends in executive MBA programmes

The impetus towards digital transformation proffers a two-pronged challenge and opportunity to senior leadership.

Written by Guest

April 24, 2024 09:09 IST

Digital fluency is becoming increasingly important as digitalisation transforms industries, necessitating new leadership skills. (Image: Freepik)

By Anish Srikrishna

In recent years, the corporate world has witnessed a seismic shift towards digital transformation. This transformation is not just a trend but a necessity propelled by growth, demand and the need for innovation. As we look into the future, organisations are encouraged to prepare for the next level of transformation that will inevitably impact industries. This preparation is less about bracing for impact and more about strategising for a future where digital fluency is at the core of business operations.

The impetus towards digital transformation proffers a two-pronged challenge and opportunity to senior leadership. The VUCA world we operate demands an elevated preparedness while it also unveils avenues for pioneering expansion and competitive prowess. Senior executives and CXOs are increasingly recognising the importance of upskilling to navigate these challenges effectively. Executive MBA programmes are significant as they offer a pathway to acquire specific skills and expertise in areas like data analytics, digital marketing, cybersecurity and innovation management.

Enhancing leadership capabilities and driving organisational success in the digital era requires a deep understanding of digital transformation. Senior leaders are enrolling in Executive MBA programmes in greater numbers, seeking to develop the competencies needed to lead their organisations successfully. Such programmes are meticulously designed to address the growing demand with digital fluency, integrating elements of digital leadership such as Digital Transformation, Big Data Analytics, Agile Leadership, and Change Management.

Digital fluency is becoming increasingly important as digitalisation transforms industries, necessitating new leadership skills. Executive MBA programmes are at the forefront of addressing this need, incorporating cutting-edge topics like AI, machine learning, blockchain, and more. These programmes not only cover the theoretical aspects but also emphasise practical applications, including the use of Data Analytics for efficient decision-making supported by Predictive Analysis.

The relevance of such programmes is underscored by the Wheebox’s ‘India Skills Report 2024’, which highlights India’s global leadership position in AI skill penetration and talent concentration. With an impressive score of 3.09 and an installed talent base of 416K AI professionals as of August 2023, India is well-poised to meet the current demand of approximately 629K, a figure that is expected to surge to 1 million by 2026. This data not only reflects India’s robust position in the global AI landscape but also emphasises the critical need for executive education programmes that can harness this talent for corporate success.

Executive MBA programmes are evolving to meet the needs of a business world in flux, providing senior leaders with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead in the digital age. By focusing on digital leadership and the specific skills required in the modern business environment, these programmes play a crucial role in shaping the leaders of tomorrow. As the demand for digital fluency continues to grow, so too does the importance of executive education in ensuring that today’s leaders are equipped to drive their organisations towards a successful, digitally fluent future.