Strategic Direction & Leadership Development (Modular Format) Programme CMI Level 8

Strategic Direction & Leadership Development (Modular Format) Programme CMI Level 8

Course Overview

This course leads to an accredited qualification:

Level 8 in Strategic Direction & Leadership

Course Summary
Tutor-led Learning: Variable based on modules selected
Total CPD Earned: Variable based on modules selected
CPD Accredited by: CPD Standards Office
Qualification Registration: CMI level 8
CMI Level 8 Qualification Support Summary
Supporting Feature Certificate
Applied Learning Sessions: 2 x 3.5 hours duration
Group Tutorial Sessions: 4 x 1 hour duration
1:1 Coaching Sessions: 4 x 1.25 hours duration

Strategic leadership development mastery

This advanced-level programme is designed to support experienced strategic leaders and Directors in deepening their leadership mastery and formalising their expertise at the highest level.

Whether you already hold a Level 7 qualification or are leading in highly complex, inter-organisational environments, this programme offers the tools, insights, and reflective space to evolve your leadership practice in line with strategic demands.

Participants build their own professional development pathway, selecting from a range of strategic direction and leadership workshops including Finance for Non-Finance Directors, Corporate Governance and Leading Strategic Culture, to meet their unique learning and leadership goals.  See the full range of available modules and next event dates in the Leadership Modules section below.

A key feature of the programme is access to SimVenture ‘Evolution’, a powerful business simulation platform that enables real-time application of strategic thinking in a virtual environment.

Programme Overview

The programme includes a blend of mandatory strategic leadership development events (delivered in one- or two-day formats) alongside optional sessions to tailor your experience.

  • Learn through a combination of classroom or virtual workshops
  • Apply thinking in simulated strategic business environments
  • Reflect and grow through executive coaching and tutorials
  • Build a leadership pathway rooted in your current and future strategic challenges

Expert-Led Learning

At ChTC, our faculty combines academic expertise with deep practical leadership experience. All programmes are grounded in the latest research, best practice, and real-world insight—ensuring your learning is both rigorous and relevant.

Our tutors are trusted advisors, consultants, and senior leaders who bring clarity, credibility, and challenge to your learning journey.

Accreditation

✔ CMI Level 8 Accreditation in Strategic Direction & Leadership

To achieve certification, participants must:

  • Attend the mandatory development events
  • Complete the ½-day SimVenture ‘Evolution’ simulation session
  • Participate in executive coaching sessions and tutorials

Next Available Course

  • Modules run between

      15 May 2025
      13 June 2025
  •  In Person
     Virtual
     Blended
Availability
Pricing & Qualification Options
CMI Level 8 in
Strategic Direction & Leadership
Option In Person Virtual
Certificate 4250 4075
Prices exclusive of VAT

About the programme

Take a closer look – explore each tab for detailed programme insights!
  • Benefits for individuals include:

    • Powerful, inspirational communication skills.
    • Increased openness to opportunities for personal learning and development.
    • Ability to create targeted performance improvements for self, individuals, teams and businesses.
    • Develop the ability to support others through change, and become resilient when challenged.
    • Develop self-awareness and leadership capability.

    Benefits for the organisation include:

    • An enhanced commitment of individuals and their delivery of continuous improvement and better engagement.
    • Higher organisational performance and productivity.
    • Facilitates the adoption of a new culture or management change.
    • Supports cost reduction and business growth.

  • Whether you attend in person or join virtually, you are part of a fully live and interactive experience, where your presence and participation are essential.

    This programme is accessible in the following modes:

    In-person

    Our in-person courses are designed to provide an immersive learning experience that fosters direct interaction with instructors and peers. You'll benefit from a dynamic classroom environment where ideas are exchanged freely, hands-on activities reinforce your learning, and real-time feedback enhances your understanding. The personal connections you build in our face-to-face sessions create a supportive community that extends beyond the classroom, offering valuable networking opportunities and collaborative projects. With access to our cutting-edge facilities and resources, attending in person allows you to fully engage with the course material and participate in spontaneous discussions that can enrich your educational journey.

    Virtual Classroom

    Our virtual classroom brings the quality and engagement of in-person learning to you, wherever you are. Leveraging the latest in online education technology, our virtual courses are designed to be interactive and engaging, with live lectures, real-time discussions, and collaborative activities that mirror the in-person experience. You'll have the flexibility to join from the comfort of your home or office. Our virtual platform ensures that distance is no barrier to accessing high-quality education, with all the tools you need to succeed, including digital resources, virtual breakout rooms for group work, and direct communication with instructors and fellow participants.

    Hybrid

    Some of our programs offer the same live training to both in-person and virtual participants, ensuring a cohesive and integrated learning experience for all. As we develop our skills in various co-coaching sessions, in-person attendees will have the unique opportunity to coach both online and face-to-face, bridging the gap between traditional and digital environments. This dual-mode coaching experience is invaluable in today's world, where the ability to navigate and excel in both physical and virtual spaces is increasingly essential. By mastering the art of hybrid coaching, you’ll gain practical skills that are not only relevant but critical for thriving in a rapidly evolving professional landscape.

    Blended

    This flexible learning model allows you to tailor your educational experience to seamlessly fit your lifestyle, offering the best of both in-person and remote participation. With the blended approach, you have the freedom to attend sessions on campus when you can, enjoying face-to-face interactions and hands-on experiences, while also having the option to join remotely whenever needed. This adaptability ensures that your learning remains consistent and uninterrupted, regardless of your location or schedule. Whether you’re balancing work, travel, or other commitments, the blended model empowers you to stay engaged and fully participate in your education on your terms.

  • Advantage LMS

    Our Learning Management System (LMS) is a user-friendly digital platform designed to deliver, manage and track all your educational and training content in one place.

    It streamlines the learning experience by providing a centralised hub where you can access course materials, complete assessments, engage in interactive activities, and receive personalised feedback.

    As a participant on a ChTC programme, you’ll receive access to our LMS from the moment you book with us.

    Key Features and Functions:

    • Update your personal details
    • View and manage your enrolled courses
    • Download joining instructions and pre-course workbooks
    • Access learning resources and materials
    • Book support services such as tutorials (additional services may vary depending on your course)
    • Upload assignments for marking
    • Receive assessor feedback and download your mark sheets
    • Track your progress throughout the programme

  • By undertaking this course you will also earn CPD accredited by:
    CPD Standards Office

    CPD Accreditation is a trust mark achieved by training providers, course creators, and other educators when their training activity (course, event, other) has been assessed and confirmed to meet standards suitable for Continuing Professional Development.

    CPD is theongoing process through which professionals maintain and enhance their knowledge, skills, and competencies throughout their careers. Whilst CPD is mandatory only in some industries such as finance, healthcare, law and others, continuous learning on and for work is part of the natural competence development process for all individuals engaged in any professional activity.

    The CPD Standards Office, based in the United Kingdom, is a world-leading CPD accreditation service, providing certification to training providers, coaches, speakers, and other educators across all industries and sectors.

    Accreditation criteria is based on the largest ongoing CPD research project and guarantees contemporary certification process for training providers, as well as up-to-date learning experience for delegates.

    Having our courses independently evaluated and quality assured, provides our clients with confidence they are engaging with a professional organisation and investing in a quality service.

  • The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation

    The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) regulates qualifications, examinations and assessments in England.

    For your convenience, we provide the related OFQUAL Qualification numbers and links to the gov.uk website where this data is maintained. From that page,  the awarding organisation may be confirmed and access to the relevent specification is also provided.

    Qualification OFQUAL Link
    Certificate
  • This programme leads to a CMI Level 8 Certifcate in Strategic Direction and Leadership, awarded by the Chartered Management Institute (CMI). Designed for directors and senior managers responsible for developing and implementing effective, ethical, and collective strategies across their organizations, this qualification enhances your strategic leadership capabilities at the highest level.

    Here’s what’s involved:

    1. Written Assignments

    For each unit undertaken, you’ll complete a written assignment (typically 4,000–4,500 words) that delves into specific strategic leadership topics. These assignments allow you to demonstrate your understanding of theories, models, and practical applications pertinent to effective strategic direction and leadership.

    2. Practical Application

    Throughout the programme, you’ll be encouraged to apply learned concepts within your organization or through simulated scenarios. This practical approach ensures that theoretical knowledge is translated into actionable strategic leadership skills.

    3. Reflection and Professional Development

    To consolidate your learning, you’ll engage in reflective practice by:

    • Evaluating your strategic leadership experiences.
    • Identifying areas for improvement.
    • Developing a Personal Development Plan (PDP) to guide your ongoing growth as a strategic leader.

      Certificate
      • The table below denotes the available units for this qualification
      • A minimum of 20 credits are required to attain this qualifcation
      • From the date of your CMI registration, you will have 24 months to complete your assignments
      • The estimated Total Qualification Time (TQT) is 200 hours
      • What is Total Qualification Time (TQT)?

        TQT is the estimated time it takes to complete the qualification, including:

        • Pre-course preparation
        • Inter-module activities
        • Classroom or virtual attendance
        • Tutorials
        • Applied Learning Sessions
        • Coaching Sessions
        • Assignment writing
        • Independent reading and research
        • Peer group discussions
      Unit Reference Title Credit Value Required Submission Word Count
      8C1V2-8001V1 Personal development as a strategic leader 10 Assignment 4000 - 4500
      8C1V2-8002V1 Collective strategy development 10 Assignment 4000 - 4500
      8C1V2-8003V1 Inter-organisational strategic planning 10 Assignment 4000 - 4500
      8C1V2-8004V1 Inter-organisational strategic direction 10 Assignment 4000 - 4500
      8C1V2-8005V1 Strategic communication 10 Assignment 4000 - 4500
      8C1V2-8006V1 Strategic culture 10 Assignment 4000 - 4500
  • Tutorials at ChTC are designed to help you successfully complete the assessment and assignment components of your chosen qualification.

    Led by an experienced ChTC tutor, these sessions are flexible and can be tailored to suit your personal learning style and needs—whether you need structured guidance or just a space to discuss your progress.

    How Our Learners Use Their Tutorials:

    ✔ Getting started – Receive initial support to organise your thoughts before beginning an assignment.

    ✔ Boosting motivation – Overcome procrastination and start writing with confidence.

    ✔ Clarifying requirements – Get help with specific Assessment Criteria (ACs) that may be unclear.

    ✔ Receiving feedback – Share your work with a tutor or group for insights on its readiness for submission.

    ✔ Addressing assessor feedback – Discuss feedback on referred ACs and understand how to improve them.

    ???? Coming Soon!  Participants on ChTC programmes will also have access to video tutorials covering key Assesment Criteria (ACs) areas, offering additional on-demand support to aid assignment completion.

    Understanding Assessment Criteria (ACs)

    Each assessed piece of work, including written assignments, is structured around Assessment Criteria (ACs). These break down the required knowledge, understanding and evidence needed to meet the qualification standards.

    At ChTC, our tutorials are here to ensure you feel fully supported and confident in completing your qualification.

    Find your inclusive entitlement for this programme below: 

    Qualification Option Session Quantity Duration
    Certificate Group Tutorial 4 sessions 1 hour each
  • At ChTC, one of our core values is “Powered by Coaching.”

    We believe coaching is a powerful development tool—one that has been proven to drive both personal and professional growth. It provides the guidance, clarity, and support needed to maximise learning and unlock potential.

    Our senior leadership development programmes include dedicated time with one of our experienced executive coaches, giving you the opportunity to:

    • Reflect on how to apply your learning effectively in your role.
    • Gain valuable insights and strategies tailored to your leadership journey.
    • Explore the next steps in your career with confidence and clarity.

    Coaching isn’t just about learning—it’s about transforming knowledge into action and setting yourself up for long-term success.

    Qualification Option Session Quantity Duration
    Certificate 1 to 1 Coaching Session 4 sessions 1.25 hours each
  • Some of our programmes, particularly our leadership programmes, include Applied Learning Workshops. These workshops provide delegates with the opportunity to apply their learning from the taught programme in their workplace, using it to drive change and improvements.

    For programmes that lead to formal accreditation through the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM), the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), or contribute to CPD credits, attendance at Applied Learning Workshops is an integral part of the required Guided Learning Hours (GLH). As such, delegates should consider participation in these sessions as a core component of their programme.

    The Purpose of Applied Learning Workshops

    These workshops provide dedicated time and space for delegates to:

    Discuss theories, models, and concepts explored during the knowledge transfer phase.

    Reflect on their leadership journey, including progress, challenges, and successes.

    Share practical experiences of applying learning in their workplace.

    Receive support and challenge from peers to refine their thinking and approach.

    As individuals share their development journey, colleagues are encouraged to actively engage, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Participants can:

    • Ask thoughtful questions to deepen understanding.
    • Challenge perspectives to encourage critical thinking.
    • Share experiences and insights that may support the person presenting.

    A Structured Yet Flexible Learning Approach

    While Applied Learning Workshops are not as formally structured as an Action Learning Set (ALS), they are rooted in ALS principles, as developed by Reg Revans, following the learning formula:

    L = P + Q + R

    ???? L = Learning

    ???? P = Programmed Knowledge (established knowledge, frameworks, and models)

    ???? Q = Questioning (challenging assumptions and exploring new perspectives)

    ???? R = Reflection (deepening understanding through self-examination and discussion)

    Through questioning and reflection, participants are encouraged to re-evaluate their existing ways of thinking, challenge assumptions, and develop new insights and learning—ensuring their knowledge translates into meaningful workplace impact.

    Qualification Option Session Quantity Duration
    Certificate Applied Learning Session 2 sessions 3.5 hours each

Leadership Modules

Level 8 in Strategic Direction and Leadership

This prestigious Level 8 programme is designed for senior leaders operating at, or aspiring to, the highest levels of organisational strategy. It is underpinned by a carefully structured programme of Guided Learning Hours (GLH), ensuring participants receive the depth and rigour expected at this level.

To meet the requirements of the qualification and support meaningful development, all participants will complete a taught phase consisting of four mandatory modules.

  • Board Dynamics & Governance (2 days)
  • Leading Strategic Culture(1 Day)
  • Strategic Leadership (2 days)
  • Business Simulations & Entreprenureship Learning (1/2 day) which includes a software licence for:  Discover SimVenture Evolution which is valid for the duration of the taught phase.

Flexibility and Additional Learning

Participants are welcome to enhance their learning further by attending additional modules beyond the minimum six-day requirement, which are available at a discounted rate when booked as part of the programme.

Explore the available modules and their upcoming dates below. Click on any module for more details.

Upcoming Course Dates

Spring Course

  • Modules run between

      15 May 2025
      13 June 2025
  •  In Person
     Virtual
     Blended
Availability

Late Summer Course

  • Modules run between

      17 September 2025
      28 November 2025
  •  In Person
     Virtual
     Blended
Availability