Leading Through Complexity: Business Strategy for a Changing World

Catalog description

The world is increasingly focused on transitioning to a more sustainable and lower-carbon future and that presents opportunities for business leaders. This course will explore the concepts of ESG and sustainability and build the case for them as a business imperative and driver of growth. Following a series of foundation-setting sessions, we'll leverage case studies and guest speakers to learn about: (1) Innovators focused on sustainability as a value proposition and core commitment; (2) Investors seeking financial returns alongside societal impact; and (3) Incumbents working to adjust their business models to capitalize on growing interest in sustainability. The course has been designed for students pursuing careers in technology with the conviction that command of this material will lead to better outcomes on the job. We'll explore the current and potential role of entrepreneurship to address some of the greatest sustainability challenges. We'll also consider the innovative business opportunities created by sustainability-related legislation and regulation. By the end of the course, students will be able to articulate the meaning of ESG and sustainability as well as distinctions between the terms. They will be able to describe the ways in which environmental and social topics may create opportunities and risks for companies and explain how companies and investors can make sustainability a driver of growth.