INTRODUCTION
The evolving digital landscape demands a new kind of leadership—one that embraces technological advancement while staying grounded in the core human capabilities of communication, adaptability, and strategic foresight. As organizations accelerate their digital transformation efforts, effective leadership becomes critical in navigating change, fostering innovation, and driving performance in uncertain environments.
Digital leadership goes beyond familiarity with technology; it is about leading with vision, empowering teams, and building systems that support continuous improvement and resilience. Whether managing external projects, streamlining internal processes, or addressing spontaneous challenges, leaders must be equipped to align digital capabilities with long-term business goals.
Through practical frameworks, interactive discussions, and real-world applications, participants will gain insight into leading within highly dynamic and interconnected environments. They will develop the ability to think critically, manage resistance to change, and unlock team potential through collaboration and transparency.
A significant component of the course is centered on innovation frameworks, such as design thinking, and change leadership techniques that ensure sustainable results. The emphasis is not on mastering digital tools alone, but on reimagining leadership for a digital-first world.
COURSE OBJECTIVES
Participants who complete this course will be able to:
• Navigate the intersection of technology and leadership to drive business results.
• Apply the Leadership in a Digital Age (LIDA) Framework to enhance team impact.
• Foster a culture of creativity and continuous innovation using design thinking tools.
• Lead successful digital transformation efforts with or without a technical background.
• Communicate effectively and manage stakeholder expectations during change.
• Build trust, emotional intelligence, and strategic thinking into everyday leadership practice.
COURSE OUTLINE
Module 1: Digital Leadership Foundations
• Overview of Industry 4.0 and digital transformation trends
• Shifting leadership expectations in a digital economy
• Organizational culture and leadership alignment
• The LIDA Framework: Four stages of modern leadership
• Emotional intelligence and its influence on team performance
• Integrating empathy into strategic decision-making
Module 2: Strategic Thinking for Modern Leaders
• Core concepts of strategic foresight
• Frameworks for adaptive planning and risk anticipation
• Enhancing collaboration through strategic communication
• Building trust and psychological safety in teams
• Identifying leverage points for organizational impact
• Balancing short-term execution with long-term vision
Module 3: Innovation and Design Thinking – Part I
• Understanding innovation drivers in your sector
• The leader’s role in promoting innovation culture
• Principles and phases of design thinking
• Conducting empathy-based research with stakeholders
• Framing challenges through problem statements
• Building alignment around creative problem-solving
Module 4: Innovation and Design Thinking – Part II
• Ideation methods for structured creativity
• Prototyping techniques and testing strategies
• Building persuasive presentations to gain buy-in
• Keeping momentum after innovation sprints
• Leading innovation initiatives through roadblocks
• Encouraging experimentation and risk-taking in teams
Module 5: Leading Digital Transformation
• Identifying business processes for digital reinvention
• Aligning transformation efforts with organizational goals
• Building cross-functional teams to champion change
• Case studies of successful transformation initiatives
• Managing fears and uncertainty around new technologies
• Developing influence without deep technical expertise
Module 6: Change Management and Execution
• Diagnosing change readiness and organizational dynamics
• The psychology of resistance: recognizing patterns and responding effectively
• Communicating change clearly and consistently
• Stakeholder mapping and influence strategies
• Leading execution through accountability and momentum
• Embedding feedback loops for continuous adaptation
TARGET AUDIENCE
This course is specifically designed for:
• C-suite executives and senior leaders involved in transformation strategy
• Mid-to-senior level managers responsible for team performance and project execution
• Entrepreneurs looking to scale digital capabilities in their business
• Functional leaders and department heads navigating technological transitions
• Consultants supporting clients through change and innovation processes
Duration: 10 days
Venue: Ethiopia
Date: Open
