13 - 18 December 2026 | London
Certificate in Strategic Thinking & Planning
Certified by BSI
This course bridges the gap between strategic vision and practical execution, equipping professionals with the tools and confidence to make informed decisions in a fast-changing business landscape. Participants explore a range of strategic thinking and analysis models, including sustainability, behavioural insights, and entrepreneurial thinking, while gaining hands-on experience using AI to develop strategic proposals.
Highly interactive, the course combines theory with practical exercises, group discussions, and collaborative activities, helping delegates align strategic vision with operational decisions. By the end, participants will be equipped to apply strategic frameworks confidently within their own organisations, strengthening their professional capability and their organisation’s competitiveness.
What's in store
Strategic Thinking vs Strategic Planning
Including the 7s Framework, the Business Diamond, and Planned vs Emergent Strategy
Industry Analysis
Using STEEPLE, Porter’s 5 Forces, and Key Success Factors, with a focus on AI and geopolitical developments
Organisational Analysis
Covering mission, vision, market positioning, resources, capabilities, and SWOT 2.0
Sustained Competitive Advantage
Exploring economic moats, differentiation, and cost leadership strategies
Growth Strategies
Spanning internationalisation, diversification (BCG Matrix, Ansoff Matrix), and organic vs acquisition approaches
Strategic Implementation
Including single vs double loop learning and the role of leaders and AI in strategy execution
Led by Ted Wainman
Ted Wainman 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.
Ted has worked with over 350 companies in more than 35 countries around the world – delivering financial training. He brings this wealth of experience into the classroom; his workshops are highly engaging and thought provoking – with the content individually tailored to meet the specific needs of the delegates attending each workshop.
Benefits of Attending
Apply Strategic Thinking: Understand and implement the principles of strategic thinking to set clear, actionable directions for your organisation or business unit
Analyse Advanced Frameworks: Evaluate and utilise tools like the 7s Framework, SWOT analysis, and Porter’s 5 Forces to address and solve complex business challenges
Develop Operational Plans: Construct measurable, actionable steps that translate strategic intentions into progress and accountability
Adapt Strategic Approaches: Modify and refine your strategic plans to respond effectively to external disruptions and avoid the pitfalls of rigidity
Create a Personal Strategy Toolkit: Design and build a customised strategist’s checklist to ensure a structured, repeatable approach to strategic thinking and planning
Who Should Attend
This course is designed for Executives, Senior Managers, Business Unit Leaders, Regional Heads, and professionals in Strategic Planning departments. It suits both those seeking a foundational understanding of strategic frameworks and those with existing experience wanting an intensive refresher on the latest strategic thinking approaches and tools.