In three weeks since it launched, La Trobe Business School Leadership Professional Development Program has attracted more than 3,200 participants from various fields.
About a third of those who signed up came from the sports industry, 15% were health experts while the rest were from different sectors, including education, tourism and the arts.
Staff from the Melbourne Rebels, Carlton FC, Cricket Australia, Australian Football League and Sailing Australia were among the sports leaders who joined the program.
Launched in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the free online leadership program is facilitated by volunteer business academics and alumni from the University’s highly regarded MBA program.
Director of Research Partnerships at La Trobe’s Business School Dr Geoff Dickson said the outbreak had been especially tough for the sports sector as it one of the of the first industries to be affected by the lockdown.
“The high participation rate from sporting organisations reflects the passion and commitment of professionals in these industries,” Dr Dickson said.
“If athletes want to be swifter, higher and stronger, then sport managers want to be smarter, more creative and more influential”.
MBA Program Director Dr Geraldine Kennett expressed delight that the program had been well-received.
“People are signing up to improve their leadership skills, understand team dynamics and connect with fellow participants from diverse backgrounds and industries,” Dr Kennett said.
“They are genuinely excited about getting started, learning from each other and gaining the skills and knowledge they need to lead in these uncertain times.”
Dr Kennett said that even though the classes were held virtually, she felt “there is a sense of community, and progressing and achieving together.”
Participants who complete the four-module, 12-hour program are also eligible to receive a credit towards La Trobe’s acclaimed MBA.
Those who wish to participate can register any time at La Trobe’s official website. Participants can connect online to the self-paced course, and to Zoom sessions and webinars.