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Leading and Managing Innovation

The Leading and Managing Innovation executive education program, brought to you by UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School and UBB FSEGA, gives executives the tools and strategies they need to thrive in a world where innovation is constantly changing the game. In today’s fast-paced, competitive landscape, this program helps you stay ahead by turning disruption into opportunity.

ubb

Leading and Managing Innovation

Leading-and-Managing-Innovation

The Leading and Managing Innovation executive education program, brought to you by UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School and UBB FSEGA, gives executives the tools and strategies they need to thrive in a world where innovation is constantly changing the game. In today’s fast-paced, competitive landscape, this program helps you stay ahead by turning disruption into opportunity.

Duration

• 2 Days in UBB FSEGA Campus, Cluj-Napoca;
• 7 Days in Chapel Hill, NC, USA.

Format

In-Person

Price

€ 9,950

Leading and Managing Innovation

Duration

• 2 Days in UBB FSEGA Campus, Cluj-Napoca;
• 7 Days in Chapel Hill, NC, USA.

Format

In-Person

Price

€ 9,950

Apply by February 25, 2025

Start Date March 21, 2025

Overview

Dive into practical frameworks, actionable tools, and insights from industry leaders, designed to help you foster a culture of innovation, lead diverse teams, and tackle challenges with fresh perspectives.

With a blend of theory and real-world applications, this program empowers you to transform obstacles into opportunities and drive meaningful change within your organization.

DATE

LOCATION

LENGTH

March 21-22, 2025

UBB FSEGA Campus/Cluj-Napoca

2-day program / 1 weekend in Cluj-Napoca

March 31 - April 4, 2025

UNC Executive Development/ The Rizzo Center Chapel Hill

4-day program / 1 week in Chapel Hill

April 5-6, 2025

UBB alumni US Chapter / Annual Reunion The Rizzo Center Chapel Hill

1-day program (optional)

Program Key Features

The program is built on a strong foundation of research and practical insights, combining both academic rigor and real-world applicability. It leverages the latest evidence in innovation management, organizational behavior, and leadership to help participants develop strategies that drive tangible results. Drawing on both UBB FSEGA and UNC Chapel Hill’s academic expertise, the curriculum incorporates findings from different fields to ensure that participants are equipped with proven tools and frameworks.

This program goes beyond traditional lectures, using an integrated approach that combines theory, hands-on practice, group activities and critical reflection. Participants explore the full spectrum of innovation management—ranging from developing an innovation strategy to implementing agile processes. Each module builds on the previous one, creating a cohesive learning experience that connects strategic concepts with practical applications

The program prioritizes in-person learning, providing two immersive sessions: one in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, and one in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. This format encourages networking, collaboration, and deep engagement with faculty and peers. The case method is a cornerstone of the program, allowing participants to engage with real-world business scenarios and develop problem-solving skills in a dynamic, interactive setting. By analyzing and discussing cases, participants learn to navigate complex innovation challenges.

A unique feature of the UBB FSEGA Executive Education Program is its international collaboration with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. This partnership introduces a global perspective on innovation, allowing participants to gain insights from different cultural contexts and business environments. The international aspect enriches the learning experience, encouraging participants to think beyond local practices and understand innovation on a global scale. It offers exposure to the American business school culture, providing participants with a well-rounded, global understanding of innovation management.

This program integrates elements of a top-tier American business school culture, known for its emphasis on critical thinking, collaborative learning, and high academic standards. The collaboration with UNC Chapel Hill infuses the curriculum with the rigor and thought leadership characteristic of American executive education. The program embodies values of innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership that are central to American business education, fostering an environment where participants are encouraged to challenge norms, think creatively, and lead transformative changes within their organizations.

What’s in it for You?

UBB FSEGA’s Executive Education program empowers professionals with a fresh, practical approach to innovation, leadership, and team collaboration. By engaging in immersive, hands-on modules and learning from professors and industry experts from top U.S. institutions and global companies like Apple, IBM, McKinsey and Disney, you’ll gain actionable tools and frameworks that can be immediately applied to your work.

From understanding how to foster a culture of innovation to using diverse perspectives to drive creative solutions, this program transforms theory into practice, equipping you to lead and innovate effectively.

Who Should Attend?

If you’re a professional from Romania seeking to drive meaningful change, lead diverse teams, and stay ahead of industry trends, then this program is calling your name! Here’s who’ll get the most from our executive experience

Gain a broader perspective on leadership in an ever-evolving world, and build the strategic insight and innovation skills needed to make impactful decisions.

Perfect for managers and senior leaders focused on driving innovation. Develop a toolkit of actionable strategies and personalized plans to lead teams and navigate today’s business landscape with confidence.

For successful entrepreneurs ready to take their business further. If you’re looking for fresh perspectives, high-impact strategies, and a professional tribe that shares your drive, this program is a perfect fit.

For top executives and senior leaders ready to stay ahead of the curve in innovation, transformation, and change management.

Ideal for professionals who guide organizations through change, helping them adapt with agility and lead with vision.

In short, if you’re ready to lead with vision, adapt with agility, and stay ahead of the curve, this program is for you. Join us and let’s make big things happen!

Key Benefits

A Fresh Take on Innovation

Dive into the strategic “why” behind successful innovation. You’ll walk away with insights that align your big ideas with your organization’s goals—making sure every new direction has purpose and impact.

Supercharge Your Team’s Potential

Learn to pinpoint exactly what your teams need to thrive in an innovation-driven world. From skills to resources, you’ll be the go-to leader for building a foundation that supports creativity and progress.

Make Agile Happen

Ever heard of agile innovation? You’ll master the art of putting it into practice, armed with the tools and tricks to keep your organization nimble, adaptive, and ahead of the game.

testimonials

Albert Segars

PNC Distinguished Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship

Cipriana Stan

Senior Digital Strategist - Brandocracy

Florin Lorenț

Logistics Director at Kaufland Romania & Moldova

Why Choose This Program?

  • Immediate Impact

    Implement the tools and methodologies you learn, like the Simple Rules approach, in your daily work to support innovation and foster a more creative environment.

  • Real-World Insights

    Discover how the approaches of leading tech, consulting, and entertainment companies can be applied to create meaningful impact in your organization, equipping you with strategies that have transformed industries.

  • Global Perspective

    Benefit from cross-cultural networking with peers from diverse industries and gain new perspectives from U.S. faculty and industry leaders.

  • Transformative Experience

    This program is more than a course—it’s a journey that challenges your assumptions and redefines how you approach leadership, innovation, and collaboration. Expect to leave with a fresh perspective, inspired and ready to make a lasting impact.

If you’re ready to gain the skills, insights, and connections to lead confidently and make a lasting impact, download our brochure. Discover all the details about UBB FSEGA’s Executive Education program for an experience as ambitious as you are!

Here’s what our Changemakers Say

Estera Anghelescu

Estera Anghelescu

Kaufland România & Moldova

„I would say that this program goes beyond just expanding your professional skillset – it transforms the way you approach leadership and innovation. 

The chance to learn from top-notch professors, exchange ideas with peers from orher companies/ industries, and visit innovative companies makes it an experience you simply can’t miss. 

Everyone involved in organizing this program contributed to making it a memorable experience, ensuring it was tailored to meet the current demands of the business landscape. And the networking opportunities? They’re invaluable. You’ll leave feeling inspired, more creative, and equipped to lead in a way that drives real change.”

Alexandru Simion

NTT DATA Romania

„This program completely changes the way I was thinking about Innovation in general. It demonstrated new ways to handle Innovation, new ways to harness ideas and input from others. The Executive Education offers new perspectives and different approaches when dealing with the management of the Innovation.
Everything that I have learned is applied in my daily collaboration with my colleagues from the Application and Software Engineering Unit that I am leading at NTT DATA when tackling new opportunities from the market. This program is not just a training program it is an Experience in itself.”

Georgiana Iancu

Management & Marketing Strategist

„The program helped me sharpen my understanding and skills in innovation projects and effectively support our clients’ in managing such projects. As a marketing and communication consultant, I often deal with diverse clients and creative challenges, and the frameworks I learned have become integral to how I structure problem-solving and collaboration with clients.
The practical approach of the program provided tools that I could immediately implement (e.g. Simple Rules approach), allowing me to make more informed decisions, and inspiring innovative solutions that align with client needs.”

Inspired by Their Stories?

If you’re ready to level up your leadership, drive real change, and join a network of like-minded professionals, this is your moment. Take the next step—apply now and let’s make an impact together!

Additional Benefits of our International Experience

Enhancing your education with an international perspective opens up a world of opportunities for both personal and professional growth. Here’s what our program’s international component brings to the table:

Experience the unique academic environment of a prestigious American business school. This immersive setting allows you to fully embrace the innovative teaching methods, research insights, and professional culture that drive top-tier institutions.

Living on an American campus offers an enriching experience filled with opportunities for networking, cultural exchange, and personal growth. You’ll also gain hands-on insights into innovation processes through visits to a cutting-edge American innovation lab and a major U.S. tech company.

Enjoy an exclusive private presentation on innovation in finance, featuring one of the most respected Romanian researchers in the U.S. This session offers a deep dive into cutting-edge topics like finance and neuroeconomics.

Engage with the academic and professional Romanian community on the East Coast of the U.S. during an exclusive dinner in Chapel Hill. This unique networking opportunity allows you to connect with influential professionals and create lasting bonds.

Upon completing the program, you’ll be awarded the distinguished Alumni status of UBB FSEGA Executive Education. Celebrate this achievement with a formal graduation ceremony at the historic DuBose House at The Rizzo Center in Chapel Hill.

Mark the end of your journey with the Annual Graduation Ceremony at UBB-FSEGA. It’s a perfect occasion to celebrate your personal and professional achievements alongside peers, faculty, and family, recognizing the transformative experience you've gained.

These benefits make the UBB FSEGA Executive Education program a truly transformative experience, blending international exposure with practical knowledge, cultural enrichment, and invaluable networking.

Application Procedure

We are thrilled to have you interested in our program! At our institution, we value diversity and strive to ensure that every participant’s level and objectives are carefully considered when confirming places in our program.

To increase your chances of securing a spot, we highly recommend submitting your completed application form as early as possible, ideally six weeks before the program start date. Along with the application, please include:

Step 1

A Motivation Letter

This letter should express why you want to be part of the program and how you believe your background, experiences, and goals make you a valuable addition to the cohort.

Step 2

Two Reference Letters

These should be from senior executives or UBB FSEGA alumni who can speak to your professional accomplishments, character, and potential impact within the program.

Step 3

1-on-1 Interview with the Admissions Committee

Selected applicants will be invited to a personal online video interview to discuss their objectives and qualifications in greater detail. This interview will help us ensure that the program aligns with your career goals and that you will thrive in our community.

Our Admissions Committee is dedicated to reviewing applications carefully and providing prompt feedback. If you have questions about the program or need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you make an informed decision and ensure a valuable experience.

We look forward to welcoming you to our programs and supporting you in achieving your goals!

Apply by February 25, 2025

Start Date March 21, 2025

Tuition and Financial Support

Participants will be responsible for settling their travel expenses and incidentals before the end of the program.

We are pleased to offer several financial support options to assist qualified applicants:

  • One Full Scholarship

    Available for a candidate who demonstrates exceptional potential and a strong commitment to innovation leadership.

  • Two Partial Scholarships

    Offered to selected applicants who show outstanding professional achievements and a clear drive to contribute to their industry’s advancement. Additionally, we encourage group learning by offering customized discounts for groups of five or more. Learn together with your colleagues and save up to 15%.

Contact us for more details on discounts, benefits, and how to apply for scholarships. We look forward to helping you access this unique learning experience.

Meet Some of Our Esteemed Faculty

Our teaching team combines the expertise of esteemed faculty from Romania’s UBB Babeș-Bolyai University with world-renowned professors from the University of North Carolina Kenan-Flagler Business School and beyond.

Learn from thought leaders like Albert Segars, a pioneer in strategy and technology innovation; Arvind Malhotra, an expert in complex problem-solving; and Christopher Bingham, recognized for his insights into strategic management and organizational learning.

Together with other accomplished educators, they bring a wealth of global perspectives and practical knowledge to create a transformative learning experience.

Albert Segars

PNC Distinguished Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship

Arvind Malhotra

The H. Allen Andrew Distinguished Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship

Christopher Bingham

Phillip Hettleman Distinguished Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship, Assistant Dean of Strategy and Innovation and Area Chair of Strategy and Entrepreneurship

Our Executive Education Experience

Ready for a journey that combines rigorous learning, world-class networking, and an inspiring environment? Here’s what you can expect:

Chapel Hill
  • What’s Included?

    This immersive in-person program begins at the UBB FSEGA campus in Cluj-Napoca with two days of foundational sessions. A few weeks later, you’ll travel to the Executive Education Campus at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill for seven days, blending local and global insights to give you a unique international perspective.

Enjoy modern, private accommodations with all the amenities to support both learning and relaxation. In Cluj, participants stay in well-equipped, spacious rooms. In Chapel Hill, you’ll be hosted at the Rizzo Center, located on a beautiful 30-acre hilltop in Meadowmont Village. Expect hotel-style conveniences like daily housekeeping, a complimentary breakfast, shuttle service within a 5-mile radius, and a heated pool to unwind after dynamic sessions.

Enjoy a mix of local and international flavors in both locations. In Cluj, meals highlight local cuisine, while in Chapel Hill, you’ll dine at the renowned Rizzo Center or nearby restaurants, offering a taste of North Carolina hospitality.

Access a full set of materials, including 10 case studies from the Harvard Business Publishing collection on innovation, a hot topic for industries across the globe. Exclusive Activities and Networking Events Participate in a guided tour of Chapel Hill, connect with the Romanian academic community on the East Coast, and enjoy exclusive dinners in both Cluj and Chapel Hill, providing unique opportunities for networking and cultural exchange.

Upon successful completion, you’ll receive a Certificate of Completion jointly issued by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Babeș-Bolyai University in Cluj-Napoca, showcasing your commitment to growth and elevating your professional profile.

Our selective admissions process is based on professional achievements and leadership experience, and we admit participants on a rolling, space-available basis. There are no formal educational requirements, but applying early is recommended to secure your spot.

If you don’t yet have a U.S. visa, we’ll provide an official invitation letter to support your visa application and help reschedule to an expedited slot if needed, ensuring logistics won’t hold you back.

  • What’s Not Included?

    You’ll be responsible for arranging your own flights and travel details to both Chapel Hill and Cluj (if not already based there), giving you the flexibility to find options that fit your schedule.

Program Highlights

A Journey in Innovation and Leadership

1 Week Immersive American Experience

Immerse yourself in a dynamic American campus environment and experience top-tier US business schools

1 Weekend in the Heart of Transylvania

Engage with faculty, peers, and alumni at UBB FSEGA

1 Private Presentation in Economics Innovation

Attend a unique session featuring a high-profile Romanian researcher leading discussions on economic advancements in the US

8 Distinguished Faculty Members

Renowned professors from UNC KFBS and UBB FSEGA

1 Innovation Lab

Explore state-of-the-art facilities for hands-on learning.

2 Visits to Leading American Companies

Gain insights into cutting-edge innovation practices.

Dual Graduation Ceremonies

Celebrate your achievements in Chapel Hill and at UBB-FSEGA’s Annual Graduation in Cluj.

Distinguished UBB FSEGA Alumni Status

Become part of an elite international network that will enhance your global career opportunities.

Exclusive Networking Event with Romanian Academic and Professional Community on the US East Coast

Build valuable connections with notable Romanian academics and UBB alumni, fostering both personal and professional growth through exclusive one-on-one discussions

Ready to elevate your career in an experience that’s as ambitious as you are? Apply today!

Program Directors

Wayne Landsman

Wayne Landsman

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kenan-Flagler Business School KPMG Distinguished Professor of Accounting

Răzvan V. Mustață

Babeș-Bolyai University, Faculty of Economics and Bussines Administration Dean, Assoc. Prof. of Accounting

Arvind Malhotra

Arvind Malhotra

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kenan-Flagler Business School The H. Allen Andrew Distinguished Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship