British Chamber of Commerce Shanghai cordially invites you to attend the three-day 'Strategy for Directors' (SFD) course, delivered by the Institute of Directors (IoD) on 20-22 October, each day from 9 am to 5 pm at the British Consulate-General Shanghai's office.

The Institute of Directors (IoD)​ was founded in 1903 in London and within three years we were awarded a Royal Charter to support, represent and set standards for business leaders nationwide. We are the oldest business membership organisation in the world, and we have about 20,000 members, including over 3,000 international members. We are also the only organisation that awards 'Chartered Directors' qualification across the world.

A recent survey of directors in the UK asked 'How much time do you spend on strategy?'.

The results were that 90% said they spent less than 10% of their time thinking about this critical topic. All too often directors admit that they spend more time 'in the business' than 'on the business'. However, without a clear strategy, or knowing where you are going and why, then the effort of directors can be almost entirely wasted!

Directors need to ensure that there is high-quality strategic thinking at the heart of their business around the board room table. Developing a strategy is one thing, but most strategies fail through poor implementation.

The key role of the board is to define the strategy but also to ensure that it can be implemented, against clear goals and with specific milestones.

We can support you to not only develop clear and actionable strategies for your business but also ensure that they can be measurably delivered. 

The course will give you the knowledge and skills to:

1. Identify the components and explain the process of planning and implementing an effective strategy
2. Carry out analysis that will reveal areas of strategic opportunity or threat
3. Use strategic concepts and models to generate, evaluate and assess strategic option
4. Deliver your current strategic objectives while future-proofing your organisation

These deliverables will be set in the context of the board and associated conflicts and challenges connected with the effective running of a business.

As one of our delegates observed; "Discussing challenges frankly with fellow board members from diverse industries sharpened my skills".

We encourage you to come along and sharpen your own skills as an existing or aspiring Board member.