As a student on the GIBS Programme for Management Development (PMD), you will be required to attend a number of on-campus learning experiences that combine discussions, case studies, debates and simulations. Each session will require preparation that you will undertake individually or in groups. For the remainder of the programme you will be preparing, studying, undertaking syndicate work, and conducting your own research. You will also complete assignments relevant to the management-related module you are studying.
PMD students are able to leverage blended learning opportunities, including classroom lectures, teamwork, skills practice, discussions, simulations, networking, and more. You can expect the following:
- Individual preparation for class, study, and exams
- Syndicate work to practise the dynamics of teamwork and embed learning
- Lectures: live, virtual and guest
- Access to exciting case studies and applied projects
- An Action Learning Project (ALP), to enable you to integrate and apply your learnings across the subjects
Partnering for High Performance
A special feature of the GIBS Programme for Management Development (PMD) learning experience is that you will work in a syndicate group or team. Syndicate work is assigned at the start of the programme and each syndicate is structured for a balance of management skills and backgrounds. Team members are required to assist each other with syndicate assignments.
Overview of PMD Course Content
The Business Environment - Keith Lockwood
The GIBS Programme for Management Development (PMD) gives you the knowledge and tools to better understand, and begin to assess, the South African and international economic environments and how these impact on managerial decisions - particularly relating to business strategy and performance.
This includes an understanding of the microeconomic factors that influence the behaviour of individual product and factor markets, as well as the macroeconomic behaviour of whole economies.
Managing the Art of Innovation - Abdullah Verachia
Gaining and maintaining a competitive advantage is the only route to market growth and long-term organisational sustainability in a volatile world. You'll able to effect positive change in your organisation by fostering and nurturing creative ideas and by translating conceptual ideas into value-adding innovations for the business.
Operational Effectiveness - Nana Tankou
You'll be equipped with the tools to improve the flow of the wide-ranging operational aspects of an organisation, including value and value chains.
Effective Project Execution - Tony Christodoulou
Project execution is the discipline and process of managing the end-to-end activities within a project life-cycle. It begins with the planning, monitoring and control of all aspects of the project and extends to budgeting, resource management and motivation, to achieve project objectives on time and in line with the specified cost, quality and performance.
Business Finance for Managers - Justin Spencer-Young
Gain the theoretical and practical knowledge of the major aspects of financial management, with an emphasis on models for improving decision-making in a competitive environment. Understand the linkages between the balance sheet, the income statement and the cashflow statement, be able to take more considered decisions with financial impact in mind, identify the factors that cause and drive costs, and gain insight into working capital management.
People and Performance Management - Hayley Pearson / Dr Dorothy Ndletyana
Understand how the new world of work affects companies, jobs, careers, and relationships - and examine the implications for your organisation and for yourself. Access practical techniques for improving performance and motivation in your environment.
Marketing for Managers - Silas Matlala / Ravi Pillay
The Marketing module provides a deeper understanding of the role of marketing in creating, delivering and communicating the value provided by an organisation. You'll be exposed to the latest thinking and practice within the core of the marketing discipline, so you can actively participate in marketing your organisation, effectively engage with marketing professionals and suppliers, and responsibly support your marketing colleagues.
Business Strategy for Managers– Dr Thabo Mosala
The Strategy module gives students an insight into the comprehensive process of strategic management, from design stage through implementation to evaluation.
Essential Communication Tools
Understand and be able to use clear and direct communication with colleagues and managers, so you can obtain your desired outcomes. You'll be guided on how to prepare and deliver effective presentations and how to communicate with excellence in the digital age.
