Masterclass - Leading through Change: Building Resilient Rural Businesses

A two-day Masterclass titled ‘Leading through Change: Building Resilient Rural Businesses.’

Scottish Enterprise, in conjunction with the University of Edinburgh Business School’s Centre for Strategic Leadership, is delighted to announce a two-day Masterclass titled ‘Leading through Change: Building Resilient Rural Businesses.’ This event is exclusive for Scottish Rural Leaders.

Led by John Amis, Professor of Strategic Management and Organisation in the Business School, the programme has been designed to equip rural leaders with the strategies and confidence to navigate change and build resilient businesses. There will also be opportunities for reflection and to learn from the experiences of other members of the programme while building a network of Scottish leaders that participants can draw upon in the future.

Key features of the programme will be an evening dinner with a guest speaker and visit to a business in Edinburgh to gain additional insight into how a business has negotiated significant transformation.

Key components of the programme:

• Understand the importance of creating a compelling vision to drive strategic change and inspire innovation.
• Assess internal and external forces influencing change initiatives and their impact on rural businesses.
• Explore why change can be both a challenge and an opportunity – particularly for innovation – and learn how to navigate an evolving landscape.
• Develop strategies for implementing and sustaining change effectively.
• Recognise the role of clear and effective communication in facilitating change across all levels of the business.
• Build long-term strategies to embed resilience, continuous improvement, and growth.
• Gain insights into leveraging digital technologies, including AI, to enhance competitiveness and sustainability.
• Engage in peer learning through structured discussions, collaborative exercises, and shared experiences to strengthen networks and accelerate practical application.
• Consider emerging global trends and market opportunities relevant to rural sectors.

Wednesday 18th February:

• Understanding mental models and different approaches to change
• Change diagnoses: Assessing the various internal and external forces that influence change initiatives
• Creating a vision to drive strategic changes and inspire innovation
• Understanding what to change and how
• Networking dinner with guest speaker

Thursday 19th February:

• Strategies for change implementation
• Sustaining change and effective communication
• Learning from others – visit to a business to gain insights into leading change

What is included:

Teas/coffees

Lunch on both days

Dinner evening of Wednesday 18th, in central Edinburgh

Cost to attend

£150 (No VAT) + Eventbrite fee (discounted for Rural Leaders) Note: Accommodation not included.