EDC sat down with Paula Cordeiro, PhD, Dammeyer Distinguished Professor of Global Leadership at University of San Diego’s Joan B. Kroc School of Peace Studies, to learn about an exciting new program: the Global Executive Seminar Exploring ‘Business for Good.’
The new, first of its kind program begins January 2025 and aims to serve established professionals in instituting innovative social practices to drive change.
As EDC continues to promote inclusive growth across San Diego, we know it is only with and through employer-led initiatives that we can maintain the region’s competitiveness and ensure more San Diegans can thrive here.
Here’s what Dr. Cordeiro shared:
What is the Global Executive Seminar and why introduce it now?
Business for good isn’t just a trend; it’s a critical response to our planet’s finite resources. We’ve created the Global Executive Seminar (GES) to give motivated professionals, particularly those in the mid to late stages of their careers, the knowledge, and tools to align innovative social practices with forward-thinking commercial strategies. Participants will explore models in ‘Business for Good’ through a 15-day program that begins in January blending in-person visits to businesses across Spain, Rwanda, and San Diego with online meetings and personalized consulting sessions.
Who should participate?
As folks consider transitions in careers, this USD program gives executives the tools to develop new models and practices as the foundation for new ideas or improving their existing businesses. Board members and advisors in both the for-profit and nonprofit sectors interested in best practices that are rooted in positive economic and social impacts are also welcome.
How will participants benefit?
Participants will have on-location learning at high-performing, sustainable organizations in Spain, Rwanda, and the San Diego region. In each location, we’ll showcase business leaders who have successfully balanced economic success with social and environmental impact. The seminar experience offers a global network of like-minded professionals with whom participants can collaborate, share knowledge, and form partnerships. Participants will develop action plans built on principles and strategies that can generate both financial returns and positive social and environmental outcomes.
Give us a glimpse into what you’ll focus on in San Diego.
In addition to setting the course foundation, we’ll meet with leaders from local companies including 100 percent employee-owned business Taylor Guitars, recognized globally for its commitment to social and environmental responsibility, and Dr. Bronner’s, a global leader in the certified B Corporation movement.
What can participants expect to learn in Spain and Rwanda?
Participants will meet with leading businesses in Barcelona who exemplify business for good as well as with Mondragon, the world’s largest business co-op in Bilbao. In Rwanda, participants will see the beauty and incredible rebirth of this Land of a Thousand Hills and learn about unique partnerships between businesses and government, empowering the region to become the fastest growing economy in Africa.
What is the time commitment and schedule?
- January 2025: 3 days in San Diego
- April 2025: 5 days in Spain
- July 2025: 5 days in Rwanda
- October 2025: 2 days wrap up in San Diego
What are the fees and deadlines?
Registration details are available here. Final registration deadline and fees are due December 31, and a $2,000 early bird discount is available through November 1.
For questions, contact Paula Cordeiro: cordeiro@sandiego.edu