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Setting Strategy as a Leader

Driving success through strategic leadership. 

This course is designed for professionals who are responsible for, or are transitioning into roles where setting and executing strategy is critical. Successful leaders influence and drive success for their organization by creating value through strategic initiatives. The course equips participants with the essential skills to navigate complex challenges, from aligning strategic objectives to managing diverse stakeholder relationships. Through a combination of case studies, group work, and interactive discussions, attendees will explore practical strategies for leading through uncertainty, ethical decision-making, and fostering sustainable organizational success.

This one-day, in-person session will address the unique leadership demands faced by professionals in these key industries, providing actionable insights and tools to lead with confidence in today’s dynamic business environment.

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Course Details

Date(s): April 24, 2026

Course Fee:

The cost of the program is $995 and includes materials, continental breakfast and lunch, and is due in full at time of registration.

Wake Forest University alumni, faculty, and staff receive a 25% tuition discount. If multiple participants are interested in attending from your organization, please contact us for multi-attendee discount information. Please contact executivewake@wfu.edu for more details.

  • Format: In Person
  • Cost: $995
  • Program Length: 1-day program
  • Registration Deadline: April 16, 2026

Key Learnings

What is Strategy? Participants will learn how organizations establish distinct positions through choices and tradeoffs, allocate resources to achieve long-term goals, and define what to do—and what not to do—for sustained competitive advantage.
Vision and Strategic Narratives: Participants will explore how effective leaders craft vision statements and narratives to inspire action, connect with stakeholders, and guide organizational purpose. The session focuses on creating clear, meaningful visions and using storytelling techniques to align and motivate teams.
Strategic Execution: Participants will learn how to translate strategy into action by setting clear goals, aligning team objectives with organizational priorities, and fostering accountability. The session emphasizes effective communication, managing resistance to change, and tracking progress using tools like the Balanced Scorecard.
Strategic Stakeholder Management: Participants will explore how to balance the interests of diverse stakeholders to address ethical and strategic challenges. The session highlights practical methods to identify key stakeholders, integrate their needs into decision-making, maintain legitimacy through transparency and responsible actions, and mitigate risks associated with conflicting stakeholder expectations.
Setting Strategy as a Leader is one of several open enrollment leadership programs. Programs are presented on a rotating basis throughout the year with completion of four programs resulting in a Certificate in Leadership from Wake Forest Executive Education and the School of Business’ Allegacy Center for Leadership and Character. Interested participants are able to register for this program individually or combine it with 3 other programs in the series to earn the certificate.
Certificate in Leadership

Meet the Faculty

Stephen Smulowitz, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Strategy
Wake Forest University

Additional Information

Who should attend?

This course is ideal for mid-level managers, particularly those in the finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and technology sectors, who are stepping into roles with greater strategic responsibilities. It is especially relevant for professionals tasked with balancing operational duties and strategic oversight in dynamic and rapidly evolving environments.

Schedule

Sample Schedule: 8:00am- 4:15pm

 

  • 8:00– 8:20 Continental Breakfast
  • 8:20 – 8:30 Introductions and program overview
  • 8:30 – 10:15 Session 1 – What is Strategy?
    • Distinguishing strategic decisions from operational choices
    • Establishing unique organizational positions through tradeoffs
    • Understanding the elements of sustainable competitive advantage
  • 10:15 – 10:30 Break
  • 10:30 – 12:00 Session 2 – Vision and Strategic Narratives
    • Crafting meaningful vision statements tied to organizational purpose
    • Using storytelling to inspire and align teams
    • Communicating the “why” behind strategic decisions
  • 12:00 – 12:45 Lunch
  • 12:45 – 2:15 Session 3 –  Strategic Execution
    • Translating strategy into actionable goals and priorities
    • Managing resistance to change with clarity and collaboration
    • Monitoring progress and fostering accountability with tools like the Balanced Scorecard
  • 2:15 – 2:30 Break
  • 2:30 – 4:00 Session 4 – Strategic Stakeholder Management
    • Identifying and prioritizing stakeholders
    • Balancing stakeholder interests to maintain ethical and strategic alignment
    • Addressing challenges arising from competing stakeholder expectations through proactive management strategies
  • 4:00 – 4:15 Review and group discussion
Materials

Course materials are included in the cost of tuition. Course materials will be provided in paper format during the class.

Refund & Cancellation Policies

Program Cancellation

This course is offered contingent upon sufficient enrollment. If a course must be cancelled, all registered participants will be notified at least five (5) calendar days before the course’s start date. All registered participants will receive a 100% tuition refund. No fees will be charged for cancelled courses.

Individual Cancellation – Refund Policy

Prospective participants who withdraw at least 10 days prior to the start of a course will receive a full refund of tuition paid.

Interested in Custom Programs?

With our custom programs, you’re able to build a stronger, smarter team—your way.

Learn more about custom programs