Executive Edge
From managing a function to leading the enterprise
Davenport University's Executive Edge, offered through IPEx, is a transformative program designed to help professionals make the critical shift from managing a single function to leading across the entire enterprise. Most executives struggle in this transition not for a lack of intelligence, but because they do not adjust how they operate. This program builds the perspective, tools, and habits necessary for effective executive leadership.
Delivered as three interactive half-day sessions, the curriculum utilizes hands-on activities, real-world case labs, and high-stakes simulations to drive immediate behavioral change. Participants will learn to lead from the balcony view, act with intention through outcome-backward planning, and manage their composure under pressure.
The Four Key Executive Shifts:
To successfully transition into an executive role, leaders must master four fundamental shifts in how they operate:
1. Depth to Breadth
Move from mastering one single function to connecting multiple functions across the enterprise.
2. Control to Influence
Shift from directly controlling and doing the work to shaping decisions, influencing peers, and enabling others.
3. Doing to Deciding
Transition from producing fast output to setting organizational direction and focusing on judgment.
4. Speed to Quality of Judgment
Evolve from providing fast answers to making the right calls under complexity with multiple stakeholders.
Program Outline:
Day 1: Foundation (The Executive Shift)
Understand how the executive role is fundamentally different and recognize common derailers.
- Differentiate between managing a function and aligning the enterprise
- Identify common executive derailers, such as staying tactical or becoming a bottleneck, and learn to let go of behaviors that no longer serve you
- Move to the balcony view to see patterns across teams and anticipate downstream consequences
- Practice intentional leadership through outcome-backward planning and managing energy to protect decision quality
Day 2: Integration (Tools for Executive Effectiveness)
Master a small set of practical tools needed to think, decide, and respond effectively under pressure.
- Apply the Control the Controllables matrix to reallocate your energy to where you have power
- Utilize the Performance Equation (E + R = O) to drive intentional responses rather than default reactions during high-stakes moments
- Convert goals into repeatable systems that drive consistent results without relying on willpower
- Manage your state and composure during fast-paced pressure simulations with ambiguous information
- Shift from telling to asking to build team capability through coaching
Day 3: Mastery (Application and Real-World Practice)
Integrate the tools into real executive situations and build a sustainable operating rhythm.
- Run real business challenges through structured thinking in a real-world case lab
- Practice executive decision-making and high-stakes conversations, such as giving difficult feedback or pushing back on peers
- Learn to flex your communication style using the DISC framework
- Codify your Personal Operating System by defining decision filters, weekly rhythms, and team engagement cadences
- Finalize and launch your 90-Day Application Plan to ensure immediate behavioral change
Who Should Attend?
This program is designed for current executives, senior leaders, and high-potential professionals who need to move beyond standard management theory, let go of their old functional identity, and acquire the tools required to lead across the enterprise.