Program Overview

In today’s unpredictable world, resilience—both personal and organizational—is key to long-term success. Leading Resilient Enterprises in Our Changing World, designed and taught in collaboration with the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), challenges C-suite executives and senior leaders to strengthen their adaptability, deepen their self-awareness, and rethink what it means to lead in a rapidly changing landscape.

This transformational journey blends dynamic classroom learning with immersive, real-world experiences. Through eye-opening excursions, you will witness sustainability challenges firsthand, gaining the perspective and conviction needed to navigate uncertainty, integrate sustainability into core business strategy, and build a more resilient future—for yourself, your organization, and the world.

Key Benefits

• Appreciate the Scientific Foundations of Sustainability: Participants will gain a fundamental understanding of sustainability science and global trends related to climate, nature, and quality of life.
• Understand the Intersection of Sustainability With Business Functions: Participants will explore the intersection of sustainability with various business areas such as human resources, finance, marketing, technology, legal, and operations, and come away with key insights as to how sustainability can be effectively integrated across their organizations.
• Navigate Global Sustainability Policies and Regulations: Participants will gain insights into key global regulations and policies related to sustainability, understanding their implications for business operations, compliance, and corporate governance.
• Lead with Self-Awareness for Sustainability: Reflect on your values, impact, and leadership approach in the face of sustainability challenges. Develop the mindset and strategies to drive meaningful change and position your organization for long-term success.
• Experience Sustainability’s Urgency and Promise: Step into the heart of global challenges—witness fragile ecosystems, hear how industries and communities are responding to uncertain future water supplies, and stand at the edge of rising seas. Through immersive excursions, connect with the people and places most affected, gaining a deeper understanding and a renewed commitment to a sustainable future.
• Join a Future-Focused Leadership Network: Collaborate with senior executives and thought leaders from across industries and geographies, becoming part of an active leadership network in support of a more sustainable future.

Who Should Attend?

This program is for visionary C-suite executives and senior leaders who want to do more than just understand sustainability—they want to experience it, challenge their perspectives, and lead with purpose. If you feel the urgency of today’s environmental and social challenges and recognize sustainability as key to long-term business success, this program will inspire and equip you to make a lasting impact.

Faculty

The program is taught by leading experts from across Stanford University and WBCSD in sustainability science, business strategy, public policy, and leadership. Our faculty and industry guest speakers bring real-world experience and cutting-edge research to the classroom and excursions, offering participants a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical insights.

Format & Location

Held on campus at Stanford and at various hands-on day trips throughout Northern California, the program provides participants with the unique opportunity to engage with researchers, experts in the field, companies, and communities all striving for a more sustainable future.