Erin Brockovich joins forces with Scottish university to launch leadership course

A SCOTTISH university has joined forces with activist Erin Brockovich as part of an exclusive course for business leaders.

The Institute of Directors (IoD) has collaborated with the University of St Andrews Business School on a new qualification - the Global Certificate in Company Direction; a course designed for "leaders who want to achieve long-term success and lasting impact". 

Keynote speakers include environmental activist Erin Brockovich. 

Brockovich became globally-recognised after an Oscar-winning movie charted her journey as a paralegal, whistleblower and activist after she uncovered groundwater contamination in Hinkley, California, which caused cancer and other serious ailments.

She settled a lawsuit against Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) for $333 million in 1996.

Julia Roberts (centre) playing Erin Brockovich (Image: Vue Cinema) A description of the course states: "In a world where one wrong move can go viral - governance is not an option, it is an integral and imperative skill needed to run companies in today’s ever changing business environment.

"From environmental crises and global conflict to fast-moving tech, AI advances and boardroom accountability, this programme tackles real-life complex business issues head on, equipping candidates with the tools needed to drive forward successful organisations."

Other high-profile speakers include:

• Phillips O’Brien, Professor of Strategic Studies at the University of St Andrews, who will discuss geopolitics, whilst sharing insight into the skills required to anticipate risks, drive stability and seize opportunities against the backdrop of Brexit, trade-wars, and an unpredictable geopolitical climate.
• Dr Erin Young who will provide a masterclass on how AI is changing business and how to protect companies in the face of constant innovation.
• Chair of the Institute of Directors, John Browett and CEO and inspirational speaker, Hamish Taylor who’ll cover innovation and global leadership.

Commenting on the collaboration, Professor Mark Brewer, dean of the University of St Andrews business school, said: “In a landscape defined by geopolitical uncertainty, technological disruption and an accelerating climate crisis, board directors must cultivate both agility and integrity.

"The Global Certificate in Company Direction unites the interdisciplinary expertise of the University of St Andrews Business School with the IoD’s governance expertise, equipping current and future leaders with the critical thinking, collaborative networks and practical tools to navigate complexity and drive sustainable impact.”

Jonathan Geldart, director general of the IoD added: “The IoD and the University of St Andrews offers a programme that combines 732 years of learning and leadership. This programme provides valuable insights and proven strategies that have endured over time. Both prestigious organisations honour their rich heritage while looking to the future by empowering the next generation of leaders.”

Upon completion, graduates will receive an official IoD Global Certificate, join the University of St Andrews Business School’s alumni network, and be invited to a graduation ceremony celebration in London.