The Henley Executive MBA places the candidate at the center of a transformational journey. The Executive MBA program integrates self-reflection, personal growth, and student support throughout the curriculum to cultivate purpose-driven leaders.
One of the UK’s oldest business schools, Henley Business School, part of the University of Reading in the UK, has a long tradition of teaching in the EMBA space. Founded in 1945, the business school has a rich history. The Henley Executive MBA stands out for its unique focus on personal development, self-reflection, and holistic approach to MBA learning.
The school offers two distinct modes of delivery, including the Executive MBA – Global and the Flexible Executive MBA. Notably, both programs are triple-accredited by AMBA, EQUIS, and AACSB. This mark of excellence is bestowed on less than 1% of business schools in the world, illustrating Henley’s dedication to delivering high-quality education.
The Executive MBA – Global is a truly international program. In essence, what makes the program global is that three simultaneous cohorts are running. One is based in the UK, one in the Nordic countries, and one in South Africa. The three cohorts often come together to learn from each other. For example, during the hands-on Immersive Study trips, such as the International Business trip.
It is a 24-month, part-time program. It includes two Global Immersion Study trips and extensive executive coaching. Additionally, the global program includes residential accommodation at their scenic Greenlands campus in Henley, offering candidates more time for reflection and connection. “A big part of that particular program is experiential,” notes Dean Spasova. (00:45)
On the other hand, the Flexible Executive MBA caters to professionals who need greater flexibility and a less intensive format. It is a 27-month, part-time program, blending online and offline learning. The program offers peer-to-peer learning, in-person workshops, as well as self-study elements.
Dean Spasova elaborates, “It is more geared towards those who are less able to do it in an intensive way. It has a bit more flexibility in it. It can be done over a longer period of time and has less face-to-face commitment and more asynchronous learning in the program.” (00:59) Therefore, this format is more suitable for candidates who cannot spare much time away from their work or home life.
Both options reflect Henley’s commitment to delivering high-impact, quality business education in a way that suits various lifestyles.
What sets the Henley Executive MBA apart is its holistic approach. The program aims to shape professionals into thoughtful, responsible business leaders.
She says they develop “Thinkers and leaders that have a responsibility mindset over the decisions they make. Not just for their team or organization, but for [the] community, society, and the world.” (02:00)
Henley’s Executive MBA programs place personal development and reflection at the core of MBA learning. Furthermore, personal development is part of the core curriculum and embedded across the program at every stage.
Dean Spasova underscores, “There is a lot of reflective thinking on who they are, what their values are, and where they’re coming from…At the end of the program, they say it is probably the best experience or value they got out of the program.” (02:41)
Personal development is interwoven throughout the curriculum. She expands, “They start from literally day one. They have their personal development session, and it runs all the way to the end of the program, at every stage.” (04:34)
The focus on personal development is interactive. For example, candidates participate in workshops, lectures, and assignments. In addition, one-on-one personal executive coaching sessions are woven into both programs.
Henley Business School even offers reflective retreats to its alumni. Many participate to refresh their skills and reconnect with the Henley community.
This equips MBA candidates with a better understanding of themselves and their long-term career goals. Moreover, by honing these transferable skills, they are better prepared to lead their career paths with intentionality and integrity.
It is no secret that completing an MBA is a big challenge and commitment. For many MBA candidates, it is a period of great change in their lives. Many MBA candidates are balancing their studies with new family commitments, caring for elderly parents, work, travel, and more.
That’s why the Henley MBA is designed to support students in diverse ways. The MBA approach at Henley offers supportive development training. MBA candidates work directly with coaches, faculty, and their peers to develop themselves.
The program also builds supportive communities through peer groups. Henley makes use of what they call “the syndicate method.” In this system, the cohort is divided into small groups of seven to eight students who stay connected throughout the program. This gives MBA candidates an extra layer of community and support.
Dean Spasova shares that some groups stay in touch for years, even after graduation, and regularly plan reunions. There are over 100,000 Henley alumni worldwide, from a range of programs. The school also has a bustling online community where mentoring and idea sharing take place. This goes to show that the support system doesn’t disappear after the MBA program, but rather creates lasting connections.
Dean Spasova describes, “It’s their safe space and community. They share the challenges they have: young families, marriages, breakups, and job changes. It gives them that additional support.” (09:12)
Additionally, in South Africa, where Henley has its largest cohort for the Flexible MBA, the program is intentionally family-friendly.
Dean Spasova proudly shares, “We try to bring the family into the program as well. We do activities, we invite spouses, to share with them what it will look like and how they can support [their partner]… When they come to graduation, it’s almost like they are graduating themselves.” (10:03)
The Henley Executive MBA integrates student support and school community in a multifaceted way that brings out the best of the MBA experience.
Ultimately, the Henley MBA is a reflective and transformative learning journey. It shapes who you are, not just what you know.
Regardless of which format MBA candidates choose, the MBA candidate remains at the center of the experience. Dean Spasova affirms, “We try to really ensure that it is about the person, the individual.” (10:52)
MBA candidates in the Henley Executive MBA receive personalized support from peers, faculty, and coaches. Self-reflection and personal development sessions are integrated throughout the entire program. As a result, Henley Executive MBA graduates build greater confidence and resilience. Graduates leave the program as part of a global alumni network, with lifelong connections and the mindset of a purpose-driven leader.
Discover more about Henley Business School by exploring its profile page.
