About the Program
This 2.5-day program is designed for leaders who want to better understand how boards of directors shape the direction and success of modern organizations. Through board simulation-based learning, you will lead and step into the role of board member—and board chair—to explore the real-time decisions boards must make across governance, strategy, succession planning, and risk and crisis leadership.
Over the course of the program, you’ll engage in dynamic board simulations focused on key governance and current or modern challenges that board members face. Each simulation will be framed by relevant readings and discussion and brought to life through case-based board simulation.
You’ll leave the program with a deeper understanding of the evolving role and responsibilities of boards, the dynamics of high-performing governance, and the practical skills to lead, support, and influence board decision-making in your organization.
Who Should Attend?
This program is designed for professionals with a minimum of one year of experience working with or within a board (profit or not for profit), including:
- Senior executives preparing for or currently serving on boards
- New and aspiring board members seeking to enhance their impact and leadership
- Leaders who engage with or report to boards and want to better understand governance dynamics
What You Will Learn
- Understand the evolving responsibilities and expectations of today’s board of directors
- Experience the role of the board chair and explore how leadership and governance intersect
- Apply best practices in CEO succession and executive leadership development
- Contribute to strategy development from a governance perspective
- Navigate crisis and risk with sound board oversight and leadership
- Enhance your effectiveness as a board member through structured feedback and reflection
How You’ll Learn
Each session is simulation-based and grounded in real-world governance challenges with case studies. You’ll receive pre-reading to prepare for the board simulation, then work in small groups to role-play as a board of directors addressing the issue at hand. One participant will serve as chair, another as board secretary—rotating these roles across the program to ensure active participation and skill-building.
You will:
- Engage in four immersive board simulations across key governance themes
- Receive peer feedback on your performance as board chair
- Reflect on group decision-making and board effectiveness during plenary debriefs
- Integrate your learning in a capstone session that connects insights from across the program
Program Facilitators

Sean Finn
Facilitator
Details
- Registration Deadline
- Friday, January 16, 2026
- Date
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Friday, February 6, 2026 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Friday, February 20, 2026 from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Friday, March 6, 2026 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Format
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In person
- Fee
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$3,000 + HST
Payment & cancellation policy
- More Information
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This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
613-562-5921
- Location
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Telfer School of Management
Telfer's Executive Campus
99 Bank Street, Suite 200
Ottawa ON K1P 6B9
Tailored Programs
Our programs and certificates can be delivered to your employees and tailored to fit your organization’s specific requirements.
To discuss your needs, please contact us.