26800 International Business Consulting

Subject level: Postgraduate

Handbook description

The subject provides an in-depth practical experience enabling students to develop a better understanding of international business strategies and best practices. During the international study tour, participants are exposed to a series of expert presentations and company visits supporting the course objectives, while solving a business problem for a Sydney-based firm. Academic and industry supervisors are assigned to coach, mentor and assist the participants in the engagement. The scope and nature of the consulting assignment is agreed upon with the client through a proposal process. The findings are delivered to the client in terms of a presentation and a formal report.

Subject objectives/outcomes

On successful completion of this subject students should be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of international business models that adhere to the principles of corporate responsibility and sustainable development.
2. Conduct in-depth industry and competitive research.
3. Assess business risk through an analysis of industry and competitive conditions in a global context.
4. Design and develop market-entry strategies, channel development strategies and strategic alliances.
5. Share best practices with people from other cultures and other industries.

Contribution to graduate profile

This subject provides a collaborative and practical learning experience for students. The objective is for the participants to develop an in-depth understanding of international business and best practice. The subject's focus is to provide students with an appreciation of the impact of global economics and finance on business models and strategies. The subject integrates the essential analytical skills required for effective decision making with the presentation skills necessary for their successful implementation. In addition to its focus on real-world application of business knowledge and best practices, the subject positions the Executive MBA as a rigorous, forward-thinking and career-oriented program which sets high standards of scholarship.

Teaching and learning strategies

The subject adopts a practical, beyond-the-classroom approach and its core focus is on real-world application of business knowledge and best practices. Students form teams and undertake an international consulting project on behalf of a real company or organisation. An academic supervisor and an industry expert are assigned to coach, mentor and assist teams in the engagement. Lectures by international academics and seminars by industry leaders are complimented by a one week international field trip where students will be exposed to a series of expert presentations and company visits.

Content

• Problem-solving and creative thinking strategies
• Leadership, team and organisational dynamics
• Action and case study-based research
• Consulting techniques and strategies
• Key concepts and forces in global business
• Strategic entrepreneurship and innovation
• Strategic orientation – where and how to compete
• Corporate strategy and business models
• Forming and managing strategic alliances, partnerships and networks
• Evaluating competitive intensity, prices, products and channel decisions
• Opportunity searches – critical issues for senior management

Assessment

Assessment item 1: Report and Presentation (Group)

Assessment item 2: Research Report (Individual)

Assessment item 3: Exam (Individual)