
Learning Experience
The Ivey Academy is a centre for innovation in executive development, blending contemporary academic research with practical, case-based, experiential learning and industry expertise.
Our real-world approach to leadership development is not about textbooks and lectures — it’s about learning by doing. Finish your program with new skills, crowdsourced wisdom, and a clear strategy to tackle specific challenges back at work.
Ivey Case Method
Cases are based on real organizations facing real challenges and opportunities. Featuring interviews with top executives, a case provides a deeply-researched look at the inner workings and outcomes of tough decisions in leading organizations. Our faculty facilitators guide you through immersive case discussions, drawing out key takeaways along with new ideas and perspectives. Every participant is encouraged to actively engage with both peers and faculty, bringing diverse viewpoints to the learning experience.
Simulations & Role-Play
Facing realistic simulated challenges, you will test action against immediate feedback. Play out complex scenarios on accelerated timelines, choosing to follow or ignore timely infusions of information, data, and advice. Simulations are an engaging, interactive way of generating novel solutions and seeing patterns in uncertain circumstances. By working in small groups and engaging with professional corporate actors, participants apply leadership skills and navigate team dynamics - just like in real life.
Expert Faculty-Led Sessions
The Ivey Academy program facilitators are selected from the top tier of faculty members at Ivey Business School – a diverse pool of experienced executives, acclaimed academic researchers, and knowledgeable industry experts. Drawing on original research and thought leadership from nine Ivey institutes, they are global leaders in cutting-edge fields.
Peer Learning Teams
Ivey program participants represent diverse industries, backgrounds, and organizations. Experience the value of learning together - breaking out into small groups, sharing experiences, exchanging ideas, and collaborating to solve challenges with other leaders before bringing shared insights back to the classroom. Participants come away with actionable business insights and access to a network of alumni that supports continuing individual growth.
Action Learning Projects
During your program, you will work with faculty, coaches, and other leaders to develop an action plan focused on one specific project or opportunity in your organization. This approach not only stretches participants to see new perspectives — it solves real problems facing organizations and amplifies your return on investment.
Field Site Visits
Offsite trips to innovative organizations give you the chance for an inside look at a live case study. From exclusive tours to Q&A with company leaders, program faculty facilitate a deep dive into the best practices of leading organizations. Return to work with tangible insights, inspired and motivated to enact new ideas.
Online Learning
Prepare for sessions using pre-recorded videos, readings, and case-studies – delivered at a flexible pace through our learning management system. Discuss ideas with your peers via a private forum and complete guided self-reflections to help apply key takeaways in your own role.
Industry Guests
In addition to Ivey faculty, you’ll have the unique opportunity to learn from the specific, applied expertise of industry guests. From case protagonists to keynote speakers and executives-in-residence, you’ll gain firsthand insights from experienced leaders across various sectors. Ask questions and hear valuable perspectives on contemporary business challenges directly from the leaders who live them day-to-day.
Executive Coaching
Your coach becomes a confidential thinking and sparring partner, sharing and challenging your ideas. They help you navigate “in the moment” challenges, illuminate blind spots, and accelerate decision-making. A coach also helps you understand yourself more deeply as you move into different career roles and stages, enabling you to flourish where you are and prepare for what comes next.
Assessment Tools
In partnership with Sigma Assessment Systems, our individual and peer assessment tools enable you to unlock deeper self-awareness – encouraging reflection throughout your learning journey. Gain data-driven insights and apply valuable new personal discoveries to your constantly evolving identity as a leader.
Facilities
Ivey Spencer Leadership Centre
Ivey Spencer Leadership Centre in London, Ontario Canada offers a refined and unique learning environment for business professionals. Housed in a Georgian-era manor with 30 acres of parkland and gardens, the facility is only minutes from Western University and the Ivey Business School. Spencer has 125 guest suites, 14,000 sq. ft. of event space, three amphitheatres, hiking trails, five restaurants, a fitness centre, and free onsite parking.
Ivey Donald K. Johnson Centre
Located on the ground floor of the exchange tower, in downtown Toronto, Ivey Donald K. Johnson Centre has been expertly designed to accommodate today’s business leaders. In addition to 7,500 sq. ft. of versatile meeting and amphitheatre space, the facility offers onsite catering and state-of-the-art technology integrations.
Program Management
We ensure every detail of your experience is accommodated, so you can focus on learning. Logistics such as hotel reservations, meals, and program materials are taken care of by the Program Manager – a high level concierge who ensures that the learning experience is distraction-free. Program participants learn in a fun, warm, and supportive environment with a curated group of like-minded professionals.
Virtual Learning
Combining our deep expertise in learning design with a range of secure conferencing technologies, we offer highly interactive sessions on a range of business and leadership topics. Leading Ivey faculty and industry guests join you live from around the world – using our virtual classroom to deliver impactful learning.
Prepare for sessions using pre-recorded videos, readings, and case studies – delivered at a flexible pace through our learning management system. You'll discuss ideas with your peers via a private forum and complete guided self-reflections to help apply key takeaways in your own role.
Join live online sessions using any computer, tablet, or mobile device. With the help of a live virtual IT assistant and co-pilot, we use polling, chat, and video conferencing to call on the group in real-time. Virtual learning technology allows faculty to assign instant breakout groups during a larger session; share experiences, exchange ideas, and collaborate to solve challenges together with fellow participants.