Fudan and Oxford Launch Landmark Global CEO Program Bridging East-West Business Expertise

SHANGHAI & OXFORD – In a significant development for international executive education, Fudan University’s International School of Finance (FISF) and the Saïd Business School at Oxford University officially commenced their collaborative “International School of Finance – Saïd Business School” Global CEO program on the afternoon of January 10th, 2025.

This pioneering initiative, formally known as the “FISF-Saïd Global CEO Program,” marks the first-ever degree-granting cooperation between the two esteemed institutions. The program is designed to cultivate senior business leaders with a global perspective, capable of navigating the intricate dynamics of both Eastern and Western markets.

Program Genesis and International Collaboration

The inception of the program saw engagement from several key international entities, underscoring its significance beyond academic cooperation. Early activities involved representatives from the British Embassy to China, the China-Britain Business Council, and the London Stock Exchange. This involvement highlights the program’s role in fostering stronger economic and educational ties between the United Kingdom and China, providing a platform for dialogue and understanding among top executives from diverse backgrounds.

Curriculum Designed for the Future

The two-year curriculum is meticulously structured to provide a comprehensive and integrated learning experience. It features a blend of academic rigor and practical application, delivered across multiple locations to offer true global immersion. The program structure includes two dedicated Oxford modules, reinforcing the rigorous academic foundation provided by Saïd Business School. Furthermore, there are four overseas modules, thoughtfully designed to feature instruction from Oxford professors, ensuring consistent quality and perspective across different international settings.

The curriculum is further enriched by six Fudan modules, leveraging the deep insights and expertise of Fudan University into the nuances of the Asian business landscape, particularly within China. Complementing the theoretical and regional studies are three practice modules, focusing on real-world application and experiential learning. These practice modules are crucial for translating classroom knowledge into actionable business strategies.

The subjects covered within the program are strategically aligned with the most critical and rapidly evolving sectors shaping the global economy. These include cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence, bio-medicine, semiconductor chips, new energy, and new materials. By focusing on these areas, the program aims to equip participants with the knowledge and foresight required to lead in industries undergoing significant technological advancement and global transformation.

The Inaugural Cohort: Leaders Across Key Sectors

The inaugural cohort of the FISF-Saïd Global CEO Program comprises a distinguished group of senior management personnel drawn from a diverse range of prominent companies and institutions. Their participation reflects the high caliber and strategic intent behind the program.

Notable companies represented in this first cohort include leading entities such as Yunnan Baiyao, a major player in the traditional Chinese medicine and healthcare sector; CTrip Finance, part of a prominent travel service provider with extensive financial operations; and Aim Vaccine, a key company in the crucial area of vaccine research and development. The cohort represents a broad spectrum of vital economic sectors, including medical research and development, environmental technology, and the burgeoning field of semiconductor chips. This diversity in background and industry ensures a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives among participants, enhancing the learning environment and fostering cross-sector collaboration.

Distinguished Faculty and Mentorship

The program benefits from the involvement of world-renowned academics and industry veterans. A significant figure participating as a mentor representative is William James, who holds the titles of Former Vice President of Oxford University and Professor in Virology. His involvement, and that of other esteemed faculty members from both Fudan and Oxford, provides participants with access to unparalleled expertise and guidance across various disciplines, from cutting-edge scientific fields like virology to the complexities of global business strategy and leadership.

Strategic Implications for Global Business Leadership

The launch of the FISF-Saïd Global CEO Program is more than just an academic offering; it represents a strategic response to the increasing demand for executives who can effectively operate and lead on a global scale. By combining the strengths of two world-class universities from different continents, the program is uniquely positioned to foster a generation of leaders capable of bridging cultural divides, understanding diverse market dynamics, and driving innovation in an interconnected world.

The focus on critical future-oriented industries within the curriculum ensures that graduates will be at the forefront of global development and technological change. The blend of academic modules and practical applications, delivered through a global format, promises to equip participants with both theoretical knowledge and the practical skills necessary to tackle the complex challenges of modern global business.

In conclusion, the commencement of the Fudan-Oxford Global CEO Program on January 10th, 2025, marks a significant milestone in international executive education. This ambitious collaboration between Fudan University and Oxford University, supported by key international bodies, is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of global business leadership, fostering deeper understanding and collaboration between East and West through the education of its distinguished cohorts.