Strengthening leadership and governance: Oxford’s Said Business School and Directors’ Institute – World Council of Directors

Bodleian Library at University of Oxford

Saïd Business School, University of Oxford is supporting the Directors' Institute – World Council of Directors - to elevate jointly the standards of corporate governance, ESG integration, and executive leadership across global boardrooms.

This association is anchored in a shared vision: to empower leaders with the knowledge, ethics, and decision-making agility required in today’s complex and interconnected world. By combining Oxford Said’s academic rigour with Directors’ Institute’s practitioner-led governance expertise, both institutions aim to create a lasting impact on how boards operate and how executives lead in the 21st century.

Enhancing Leadership Impact Through Applied Learning:

This collaboration offers an opportunity to engage with cutting-edge knowledge while developing practical skills to navigate the complexities of modern governance.

Oxford Saïd contributes world-class academic frameworks, thought leadership, and a global platform for executive development. Directors' Institute complements this with hands-on expertise in boardroom practices, ESG, and digital readiness—having trained over 3,500 board directors across sectors.

By working together, business leaders have a unique value proposition: access to applied learning grounded in academic excellence and informed by real-world governance challenges.

A Shared Commitment to Responsible and Future-Ready Leadership:

Through this engagement, Oxford Saïd extends its educational mission to a growing community of directors and board members deeply invested in shaping responsible corporate futures.

The Leadership Team of  Directors' Institute – World Council of Directors observed:

“This collaboration marks a significant step toward equipping current and future leaders with the knowledge and tools essential for navigating the complexities of modern governance. By fostering informed decision-making, we aim to empower individuals to drive sustainable success within their organisations.

This partnership is a reflection of our shared commitment to building capability, not just awarding credentials. It underscores our dedication to cultivating principled, globally minded leaders who can respond to evolving challenges with integrity, resilience, and vision.”

Saïd Business School

Saïd Business School is a vibrant and innovative school, embedded within the University of Oxford, offering accredited degrees and diplomas for undergraduates and postgraduates and a broad portfolio of on-campus and online courses for business executives. The School educates global business leaders, change makers and innovators across every industry and sector. Its ground-breaking research and exceptional teaching transforms individuals, who transform businesses, which transforms the world and creates ïmpact from within.

Directors’ Institute – World Council of Directors – Empowering Aspiring and Existing Directors for the Future of Governance:

Directors' Institute – World Council of Directors, an initiative of World Development Corporation, offers specialised training designed for both aspiring and existing directors. With a strong focus on corporate governance, ESG, and digital transformation, the Institute is dedicated to equipping board members with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate today’s complex business landscape. Its programmes are tailored to strengthen boardroom effectiveness and promote responsible leadership across industries.