Beyond CSR: Doing social impact right

What role should business play in tackling society’s challenges? 

The purpose of business extends beyond profit and shareholder value. Understanding and managing a company’s impact requires more than compliance and reporting – it means creating commercially viable, sustainable solutions to social and environmental challenges. Traditional Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is just the beginning.

Join us in Zurich as we explore three key considerations:

• Starting with the problem: Scanning for and prioritizing social/environmental problems at the civic level
• Building bottom-up solutions: Recognizing multiple actors’ specific expertise; consider partnering with social enterprises
• Thinking in systems: Playing a catalyst role that federates other actors of change

During this in-person masterclass, led by Sophie Bacq Professor of Social Entrepreneurship, we’ll discuss whether businesses should take on societal issues, examine how some companies are already doing so successfully, and consider how organizations can realistically approach these challenges.

After the masterclass, you are invited to join an information session about the Executive MBA program. You will have the opportunity to connect directly with our Program Advisors and Alumni to gain:

• Details about the program structure and learning journey
• Insights into how the IMD Executive MBA can accelerate your leadership impact and align with your career ambitions
• A clearer understanding of how IMD’s distinctive approach develops leaders who can connect the dots when it matters most

Agenda:

• 18:30 – 19:00: Registration & welcome
• 19:00 – 20:00:  Masterclass with Professor Sophie Bacq: “Beyond CSR: Doing social impact right”
• 20:00 – 20:45: Presentation of the Executive MBA + Q&A
• 20:45 – 21:45: Networking cocktail with EMBA staff, alumni & potential applicants

Please be advised, this event will not be recorded. Take this unique occasion to immerse yourself in IMD’s enriching learning journey in real-time.

IMD Executive MBA overview

At IMD, we develop leaders who can navigate complexity and drive meaningful impact.

Based in Lausanne, Switzerland, our programs are designed for professionals who want to accelerate their careers and expand their global perspective. With a network of over 130,000 alumni across industries and continents, you’ll gain lifelong connections that support your growth.

The IMD Executive MBA is a flexible program designed for experienced professionals balancing career growth with leadership development. Structured around a convenient three-stage learning journey – Foundation, Application, and Electives – the program enables you to build core business and leadership capabilities, apply them to real-world challenges, and tailor your learning to your personal and professional ambitions. Through AI-augmented learning, global immersion experiences, and crisis management training with the Swiss Armed Forces, you will develop the strategic mindset, adaptability, and practical skills needed to lead with impact in a rapidly changing world.

Your profile: You are an internationally experienced professional with at least 10 years of work experience, including managerial responsibilities. You have a strong career trajectory and are looking for a program that allows you to enhance your leadership skills while continuing to work. You seek flexible, action-based learning that challenges you to think globally, lead with confidence, and drive strategic change within your organization.