Programme Information

The Essential Management programme is designed for new and experienced managers in growing businesses, providing them with the skills required to become commercially-focused, confident members of the senior team.

Programme Overview

Essential Management enables leaders of small to medium-sized enterprises to work ON the business strategically rather than IN it, by delegating responsibility to their managers. The programme helps managers develop the skills to manage time, people, money, and processes more effectively.

What You Will Learn

• A deeper understanding of the core elements of business management outside your own area of expertise, allowing you to see the business as a whole and become a more effective member of the senior team.
• The ability to drive enhanced performance by effectively managing your time and the individuals and teams you work with.
• An understanding of how it's done elsewhere, through interaction with senior managers from other ambitious businesses.
• How to create ongoing commercially-driven business cases for changes or investments required to improve the business.
• During the programme, you will work on an assignment expected to deliver a sustainable, measurable, positive value to the business.

Core Content

Essential Management covers the commercial fundamentals of strategy, finance, marketing communications, management, and leadership. You will understand more about your functional responsibilities and the business as a whole, and develop a toolkit of skills to help you manage your team and yourself.

Who Should Attend

The programme is designed for managers and senior teams in ambitious businesses who want to develop a solid foundation in the principles of management and a range of business functions.

Programme Details

• Dates: 23 Mar 2026, 05 Oct 2026
• Duration: 2 + 2 days
• Location: Cranfield campus
• Cost: £3,750 + VAT (including accommodation), with concessions available

Module Dates

The programme modules run on the following dates: | March 2026 | October 2026 | | --- | --- | | Module 1: 23-24 March 2026 | 05-06 October 2026 | | Module 2: 27-28 April 2026 | 03-04 November 2026 |

Programme Directors

• Andy Haworth
• Jerry Sandys

Accommodation

Tuition, course materials, and full board accommodation are included in the price of this course.

Concessions

• Exclusive 20% discount for Cranfield School of Management Alumni who have attended one of our 2-day+ programmes.
• Discounts available for the same organisation over a 12-month period:
  • Send 2 delegates: 1 x full price and 1 x 10% tuition discount.
  • Send 3 delegates: 2 x full price and 1 x 25% tuition discount.
  • Send 4 delegates: 3 x full price and 1 x 30% tuition discount.
  • Send 5 delegates: 4 x full price and 1 x 50% tuition discount.

Location and Travel

Cranfield School of Management is situated in Bedfordshire, close to the border with Buckinghamshire, and is conveniently located between junctions 13 and 14 of the M1. London Luton, Stansted, and Heathrow airports are 30, 90, and 90 minutes respectively by car.

Testimonials

Participants have praised the programme for its excellence and the benefits it has brought to their businesses and personal development.

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Overview:

Cranfield University is a postgraduate-focused institution specializing in science, technology, engineering, and management. It is renowned for its strong industry links and practical approach to education.

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Services Offered:

Cranfield University offers a wide range of services to students, including:

Careers and Employability Service:

Provides guidance and support for career planning and job searching.

IT Services:

Offers access to computer labs, software, and technical support.

Libraries:

Provides access to extensive collections of books, journals, and online resources.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Industry Links:

Cranfield University has close relationships with numerous organizations, providing students with opportunities for internships, placements, and networking.

Practical Approach to Education:

The university emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world applications, preparing students for successful careers.

World-Class Facilities:

Cranfield boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including laboratories, workshops, and research centers.

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Academic Programs:

Cranfield University offers a variety of postgraduate programs, including:

Taught Degrees:

MSc programs in various fields, such as aerospace, energy, and management.

Research Degrees:

PhD and MPhil programs for students seeking to conduct advanced research.

Apprenticeships:

Level 7 apprenticeships for professionals seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Professional Development:

Short courses and executive development programs for individuals and organizations.

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Other:

• Cranfield University has two campuses: Cranfield Campus and Cranfield University at Shrivenham.
• The university is committed to sustainability and has a strong track record in environmental research.
• Cranfield University is ranked highly in various international rankings, including those for sustainability and engineering.