March 31, 2011
School of Business, Coimbatore
 

This month, the Amrita School of Business conducted an Executive Development Program (EDP) at its Coimbatore and Bengaluru campuses.
 

In collaboration with the Madras Management Association, the EDP was also organized in Chennai.
 

Based on the theme, Cross-Cultural Change Management and Leadership Transition, the EDP explored the complex challenges and issues international businesses face as they implement change.
 

International experts including Paul Davis from Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia; David L. Ford, University of Texas at Dallas and Dr. Ella Roininen from University of St. Gallen, Switzerland led the EDP.
 

Delegates included industry professionals, private consultants, chartered accountants and members of academia.
 

Industry participants represented middle and senior management from companies such as Sakthi Group of Industries, Larsen & Toubro, Roots Industries, Dhanlakshmi Bank, Payoda and ABT Ltd.
 

Academia was represented by senior members of management and faculty members of educational institutions P.S.G. School of Business, D. J. Academy, P. A. College of Engineering and Technology, Sri Venkateswara Educational Institute and Trust and G.R.G. School of Management Studies.
 

“Focal points of the EDP were those competencies required of leaders who spearhead and implement change initiatives, and seek organizational development in a multicultural business environment,” stated Dr. Rajeev Prasad, who coordinated at the Coimbatore campus.
 

“Change management was examined from the perspective of inclusive participation and how leaders achieve organizational transition with employees as partners in the process,” he added.
 

In addition, employee involvement in diagnosis and dialogue was showcased, and a range of models were provided to participants that could be adapted to organizations.
 

Delegates discussed ways in which they could harness opportunities for business growth, utilizing the well of untapped capabilities inherent in multicultural business environments.
 

“The seminar explored critical issues of cultural inclusion, cultural sensitivity and diversity management,” stated Dr. S. Usha Nandhini, who coordinated at the Bengaluru campus.
 

“Delegates appreciated the program, with many expressing their desire to attend similar events organized by Amrita School of Business in the future also,” added Dr. Pooja Sharma, who helped with the coordination.