Programme overview
The Certificate in Strategic Thinking and Planning is designed to strengthen your ability to develop, evaluate and execute strategy, equipping you with practical frameworks and analytical tools to link vision to implementation in complex business environments.
About The Course
Strategy is about identifying where you are, where you want to be and determining the best way to get there. Strategy is as much about deciding what not to do as well as what to do (i.e. making strategic trade-offs) as well as choosing where to go, why, when and how.
This intensive workshop is about practical strategy in action. During the course, we will examine a plethora of Strategic Thinking and Analysis models and assess their applicability to today’s business climate. We will consider various approaches to strategic thinking, sustainability, tensions, psychology, behavioural strategy and how to combine creativity with entrepreneurship.
What You Will Gain?
- Understand the concept of ‘Strategic Thinking’ and the principles involved in setting the direction of your organisation or business unit.
- Leverage the tools and frameworks that you can apply to the process of strategic thinking
- Translate strategic intentions into operational plans against which the progress of your organisation can be planned.
- Identify the need for flexibility in strategic plans and how to respond to external circumstances – avoiding the danger of strategic rigidity.
What You Will Learn
- The difference between Strategic Thinking and Strategic Planning
- Industry and competitor analysis tools such as STEEPLE and Porter’s 5 Forces
- Organisational analysis frameworks including SWOT and Value Chain
- Growth strategy tools including BCG and Ansoff matrices
- Performance measurement approaches including Balanced Scorecard
Upcoming Courses
schedule Date | maps_home_work Delivery Type expand_moreAll Locations In Person Live Digital | person Trainer | language Language | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
18 May 2026 4 days 08:30 14:30 Asia/Dubai | location_on In Person Dubai, UAE | English download_for_offlineDownload Brochure | $5,445.00 $4,945.00 Book by 13 April | ||
18 May 2026 4 days 08:30 14:30 Asia/Dubai | location_on Live Digital Online | English download_for_offlineDownload Brochure | $3,895.00 | ||
27 Jul 2026 4 days 08:30 14:30 Europe/London | location_on In Person London, UK | English download_for_offlineDownload Brochure | $5,445.00 $4,445.00 Book by 18 May | ||
13 Sep 2026 4 days 08:30 14:30 Arabian Time (GMT+3) | location_on In Person Riyadh, Saudi Arabia | English download_for_offlineDownload Brochure | $5,445.00 $4,445.00 Book by 5 July | ||
02 Nov 2026 4 days 08:30 14:30 Asia/Dubai | location_on In Person Dubai, UAE | English download_for_offlineDownload Brochure | $5,445.00 $4,445.00 Book by 24 August |
Filter By:
Delivery Type
expand_moreAll Locations
In Person
Live Digital
18 May 2026
4 days, 08:30 14:30 Asia/Dubai
location_onIn Person
Dubai, UAE
Language: English
download_for_offlineDownload Brochure$4,945.00
$5,445.00
Book by 13 April
to save $500.0018 May 2026
4 days, 08:30 14:30 Asia/Dubai
location_onLive Digital
Online
Language: English
download_for_offlineDownload Brochure$3,895.00
27 Jul 2026
4 days, 08:30 14:30 Europe/London
location_onIn Person
London, UK
Language: English
download_for_offlineDownload Brochure$4,445.00
$5,445.00
Book by 18 May
to save $1,000.0013 Sep 2026
4 days, 08:30 14:30 Arabian Time (GMT+3)
location_onIn Person
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Language: English
download_for_offlineDownload Brochure$4,445.00
$5,445.00
Book by 5 July
to save $1,000.0002 Nov 2026
4 days, 08:30 14:30 Asia/Dubai
location_onIn Person
Dubai, UAE
Language: English
download_for_offlineDownload Brochure$4,445.00
$5,445.00
Book by 24 August
to save $1,000.00
Run this course in-house
Informa Connect Academy’s customised training solutions have helped organisations deliver tailored learning in different languages to suit every requirement.
Bespoke training designed for your organisation only, combining traditional classroom setting, blended and online learning models.
To learn more about our in-house training solutions, visit the customised training page or send us a quote request.
Course Director & Certification Partner
Delivered by Ted
Ted is a trained and qualified Associate Chartered Accountant (ACA) from Ernst & Young. He has also worked with JPMorgan on the investment management side of the business. Whilst at JPMorgan, he undertook a company sponsored MBA in the International Management of Financial Services, from which he graduated at the top of his class with merit.
Balanced Scorecard Institute
The Balanced Scorecard Institute is a globally recognised leader in strategic planning, strategy execution, and performance measurement. Since 1997, BSI has supported organisations in over 80 countries in implementing world-class strategic management systems.
With more than 13,000 professionals trained and certified worldwide, BSI brings decades of consulting expertise into every programme. This course is officially certified by BSI, providing participants with a globally respected credential.
Learn more about the Balanced Scorecard Institute.
Certified By Informa
Certified by Informa is a credential developed by Informa, a prestigious leader in professional development. Earning this certification signifies your commitment to ongoing learning and equips you with the knowledge and expertise to excel in your field. Every certified course undergoes an independently validated, in-depth evaluation process to ensure it meets the highest standards of learning design, delivery, and measurable impact.
Learn more about Certified by Informa.

The Qatar session is delivered in partnership with Informa Tharawat, a Qatari company.
Aligned with the ambitions of the Qatar National Vision 2030, Informa Tharawat and Informa Connect Academy’s training programmes serve as a catalyst for empowerment, equipping professionals with the skills needed to support the nation’s growth.
As part of Informa, a global FTSE 100 business, we are backed by a network of trusted brands operating across specialist markets, with more than 11,000 colleagues in over 30 countries.
Designed With You In Mind
Who Should Attend?
This programme is ideally suited for:
- Executives and Senior Managers
- Business Unit Leaders and Regional Heads
- Professionals working in Strategic Planning
- Individuals seeking to strengthen their strategic thinking capability
It is suitable for both those new to strategic thinking and experienced professionals seeking a structured refresher on modern strategic frameworks.
Certification Criteria
You must meet two criteria to be eligible for an Informa Connect Academy/CPD Certificate of Completion:
- Satisfactory attendance: You must attend all sessions of the course. If, for any reason, you miss more than 2 hours of the course sessions, you will not be eligible to sit the course assessment
- Successful completion of the course assessment: Assessments will be ongoing and based on in-class participation and activities
Course Methodology
This programme combines strategic theory with practical application through case studies, group discussions and interactive exercises. Participants engage in real world strategic analysis and explore emerging considerations, including AI, to strengthen applied decision making.

Download The Brochure
What’s Included:
- Full programme structure and learning outcomes
- Strategic planning tools, templates, and practical frameworks
- Scenario planning, decision-making, and prioritisation techniques
- Real-world examples and exercises to apply during the course
- Certificate details, learning approach, and completion guidance
Download the Certificate in Strategic Thinking and Planning brochure for a full breakdown of the programme structure, methodology, and learning outcomes.
Have a question about this programme?
Complete the form below and our course advisory team will contact you shortly.
For regional office contact details, please visit our main Contact page.
Contact us
Frequently Asked Questions
What certification will I receive upon completion?
Successful participants who attend all sessions and pass the end-of-course assessment with at least 70% will receive a globally recognised certification from the Balanced Scorecard Institute. Those who do not meet the full certification criteria will be awarded a Certificate of Attendance from Informa Connect Academy.
What are the prerequisites for enrolment?
There are no formal prerequisites, as the course covers strategic thinking from a foundational to advanced level. It is designed both for those with no prior experience and for professionals seeking an intensive refresher. This inclusive approach ensures all delegates gain relevant and applicable knowledge.
How is the course delivered?
The course is delivered through a highly interactive format combining theory with practical exercises. Sessions include group discussions, case studies, and exercises to develop strategic skills. It is available both in-person and online, allowing for flexible access depending on your location or preference.
What is the duration and typical schedule?
The course duration and schedule details are provided by Informa Connect Academy upon registration. It generally spans multiple sessions, ensuring comprehensive coverage of strategic concepts and practical application. For scheduling and pricing information, download the course brochure or contact Informa Connect Academy directly.
What practical activities are included in the programme?
Practical activities include case studies from various industries, group exercises, and the use of AI tools for developing strategic proposals. These activities foster critical thinking and collaboration, enabling delegates to apply concepts immediately within their organisations. This hands-on approach enhances learning retention and real-world relevance.
What learning resources and materials are provided?
Course fees cover comprehensive documentation, including course materials, luncheon, and refreshments for in-person learners. Virtual participants receive soft copies of materials. Additionally, delegates benefit from expert guidance and access to proven strategic frameworks and models for ongoing application.








