The Worldwide College of Business recently collaborated with SANAD, a global aviation MRO and leasing business, to enhance SANAD’s Leadership Development Program. The college hosted an intensive week-long experience on the Daytona Beach Campus from August 5 to August 9, 2024.

The partnership underscores SANAD’s dedication to cultivating top-tier leadership, as well as Embry‑Riddle’s expertise in aerospace and aviation education. The collaboration is part of a yearlong contract; participants will meet in person once more in January 2025 and complete virtual sessions between August 2024 and January 2025.

A Week of Intensive Learning and Development

The week-long experience provided an immersive and comprehensive approach to leadership training, with content designed to equip high-potential leaders with the skills, knowledge and strategic insights necessary to excel in their roles and drive SANAD’s long-term objectives.

Participants completed sessions such as:

  • Leadership Development and Performance Excellence Framework: Participants explored advanced leadership concepts, focusing on frameworks and strategies that drive performance excellence. This session provided practical tools and methodologies to enhance leadership capabilities and align personal development with SANAD’s organizational goals.
  • Data-Driven Decision-Making: Participants explored the role of data in effective leadership. This included techniques for analyzing data, interpreting results and applying insights to strategic decision-making processes, ensuring decisions are informed and evidence-based.
  • Value and Finance: Participants explored financial management principles crucial to leadership roles. The workshop covered topics such as budgeting, financial planning and value creation, offering insights into how financial strategies can impact organizational success.
  • Accounting for Leaders: Participants focused on bridging technical accounting knowledge with practical leadership application. This session helped participants manage financial resources effectively and understand key accounting principles relevant to their roles.
  • Project Management: Participants received practical training in project management, focusing on planning, executing and managing projects. Participants gained skills in handling real-world challenges and ensuring successful project outcomes.
  • Group Dynamics and Project Experience: Participants tackled hands-on projects that simulated real-world scenarios, enhancing their ability to work effectively in teams and navigate group dynamics. This practical experience fostered collaboration and problem-solving skills.
  • Capstone Project Planning: Participants concluded their experience by planning for capstone projects, where participants were prompted to apply their learnings to address key strategic areas for SANAD. These projects are designed to make a significant impact on the organization and demonstrate participants' development.
  • Guest Speakers: Industry leaders and experts shared their insights and experiences, providing valuable perspectives on leadership and innovation in the aviation sector. Their contributions offered practical wisdom and inspiration.
  • Program Summary and Reflection: The final session allowed participants to review their learning experiences, evaluate their progress and discuss how to implement their newfound skills and knowledge in their roles at SANAD.

The collaboration between SANAD and Embry‑Riddle was a resounding success, with participants gaining crucial insight into their leadership styles and acquiring practical tools for performance management and project execution. The week’s activities not only enhanced individual capabilities but also fostered a sense of teamwork and collaboration among the SANAD leadership team.

Story written by Katya Macek.