Enhancing Business Knowledge Industry Canada’s Executive Learning Initiative

In order for Industry Canada to deliver on its mandate to promote the growth and competitiveness of Canada’s private enterprises, it is critical that its executive team possesses a strong understanding of key business issues and terminologies. However, not all have had the benefit of work experience in the private sector or a business education background.

In 2009, Industry Canada, in partnership with the Richard Ivey School of Business, developed a customized executive learning curriculum designed to meet the specific learning needs of the department’s executive team. The Executive Learning Initiative has proven to be a success, and it serves as a model of good practice in executive learning and development.

This case study analyzes and summarizes the goals, challenges, and results of that initiative.