The ‘IBL@RSM: Sustainability & Social Enterprise’ programme provides career counselling, familiarisation with the social enterprise and sustainable business sector, and career opportunities for professionals who want to move into social enterprise, impact investing, or sustainable business.
Marc Smelik, academic director of RSM’s Executive MBA and the Global Executive OneMBA said: “The role of social enterprise is crucial in shaping opportunities and solutions. We are very happy to partner with IBL to add a unique opportunity to aspiring enterprise leaders. Our students and alumni want to make a difference in the world, and this course will combine our joint expertise to help create a positive legacy.”
In Europe, entrepreneurs are creating world-class businesses committed to sustainability and ensuring lasting social impact. Many young professionals are eager to use their business skills to make a difference in the world, says IBL’s Executive Director, David Kyle. But he also says there’s a gap between the needs of enterprises looking for experienced management to grow their operations and impact and the management talent available. “At the same time, it’s difficult for mid-career professionals to find job opportunities to break into social enterprise careers. IBL bridges this talent gap.”
The partnership between IBL and RSM will build on RSM’s commitment to developing leaders in sustainability and advance the careers of up to 25 participants in social enterprise and sustainable business.
During the core orientation workshop on campus, IBL’s instructors will present the reality of building and sustaining innovative businesses and working with investors. Participants will receive career advice and their skills will be matched to vacancies for management roles in businesses already making an impact, thanks to IBL’s global network of social enterprises and impact investors.
IBL also works with other universities around the world, including the Skoll Centre for Social Entrepreneurship at Oxford University’s Saïd School of Business, Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia in the U.S., The Indian School of Business in Hyderabad, India, and Strathmore Business School in Nairobi, Kenya.
