In an interconnected, globalised world, the ability to manage stakeholders is more critical than ever. But effective stakeholder management is not just about balancing client and shareholder interests—it’s about understanding the full spectrum of relationships that shape an organisation’s success, and the cultural nuances that influence them. That’s the focus of one of the key modules in the EMBA at the University of Geneva: Managing Stakeholders in a Cross-Cultural Environment.
Why stakeholder management matters
When we talk about responsible leadership, we often focus on decision-making and governance. But true leadership also means managing relationships—with clients, investors, employees, partners, regulators and society at large. This course, which takes place in the second year of the EMBA at the University of Geneva, invites participants to broaden their understanding of what it means to be accountable to stakeholders, and how to navigate these relationships in a complex, multicultural world. Led by Dr. Guido Gianasso, a world expert in leadership and cultural intelligence, the course challenges students to reflect on the evolving nature of stakeholder roles. In today’s environment, relationships are rarely linear: clients may also be partners; investors’ expectations vary by culture; and stakeholder dynamics shift depending on organisational and societal contexts.
A practical approach to stakeholder complexity
Through real-world case studies, interactive exercises, and the diverse experiences of the EMBA cohort itself, participants learn to map and manage their stakeholder landscape. They gain insights into how cultural differences shape expectations and behaviours, and how effective communication is key to building lasting, productive relationships. The course encourages students to move beyond simplistic stakeholder models and engage with the realities of cross-cultural complexity. Participants leave with practical tools and strategies for leading in environments where stakeholder expectations are varied and constantly evolving.
One important clarification: This is not a course on stakeholder theory or abstract governance models. It is grounded in practice—equipping participants to navigate the real, everyday challenges of stakeholder management in an international, multicultural business world.
What students gain from the Managing Stakeholders module:
– Clarity and awareness—An ability to recognise the full range of stakeholders and their influence on organisational success.
– Cultural intelligence—Understand how cultural context shapes stakeholder expectations and relationships.
– Practical tools—Develop strategies to manage stakeholder complexity and foster responsible leadership.
In a world where businesses are shaped by diverse interests and global networks, stakeholder management is not an option—it’s a leadership imperative.
To learn more about Professor Gianasso and the course module, click here.
Considering an EMBA with the University of Geneva or eager to learn more? Click here.
