How do you unlock growth in an uncertain market? Where do you find the skills needed to remain competitive? And how do you ensure your organisation continues to adapt as customer expectations, technology and ways of working evolve? Catherine Thristan, Director of External Engagement (Partnerships and Executive Education), Leeds University Business School explores the issues.
These are questions organisations across Yorkshire ask every day. At Leeds University Business School, I speak regularly with leaders, entrepreneurs and decision-makers facing these challenges. Businesses benefit when they look beyond their borders for expertise, ideas and support.
That is why partnerships between organisations and business schools matter more than ever.
Challenging assumptions
One misconception is that business schools are primarily places for research and education. While both remain at the heart of what we do, modern business schools have a broader role in supporting organisations and their leaders.
Many businesses are surprised by the opportunities available, from leadership development and access to talent to student engagement, consultancy and collaborative research.
At Leeds University Business School, we are part of a wider business ecosystem. We bring together academics, entrepreneurs, students and policymakers, helping organisations access fresh thinking, knowledge and collaboration. Our role is not simply to generate knowledge, but to help organisations apply it to real-world challenges.
Fresh perspectives
Today’s business environment is particularly demanding. Economic uncertainty, technological change, workforce pressures and expectations around sustainability and productivity compete with day-to-day operations.
This is where partnerships create value. New perspectives can challenge assumptions, uncover opportunities and help leaders navigate shared issues. Support may come through research, collaborative projects, talented students or bringing together people facing similar challenges.
Investing in people
For all the discussion about artificial intelligence and digital transformation, people remain the defining factor in organisational success. Employers face challenges around leadership capability, management confidence, succession planning and workforce development.
Our Executive Education programmes are therefore an important part of our work. We help organisations and individuals build the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to succeed, combining academic rigour with practical application.
Across our relationships, we focus on three pillars: inspire new thinking, engage organisations with expertise and networks, and help people learn and develop. Executive Education is one part of that relationship, alongside research, talent, innovation and collaboration.
A partnership worth exploring
Yorkshire has a long history of enterprise, resilience and innovation. The businesses shaping its future will need ideas, expertise, talent and partnerships that help them adapt and seize opportunities.
Business schools can be accessible partners, helping organisations develop people, tackle challenges and build confidence. Whether you want to collaborate with researchers, engage with students or develop talent through Executive Education, reach out and start a conversation.