Issues Management and Public Affairs are essential, interconnected disciplines that help organisations effectively navigate the complex interface between business and society. Together, they underscore the importance of addressing societal and political challenges, which are critical to maintaining an organisation’s societal license to operate and achieving long-term success.
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In today’s fast-changing world, businesses face growing pressure to address social and political challenges. This course gives you the tools to do just that—clearly, confidently, and strategically.
Issues Management helps companies spot and respond to social concerns that arise from their business model or strategy. It’s a team effort that brings together different departments to listen to stakeholders, scan the environment for emerging risks, and build smart communication strategies to stay ahead of potential issues.
Public Affairs focuses on the political side—working with policymakers, regulators, and the public to manage risks and uncover opportunities. It’s about shaping the conversation, turning challenges into chances, and making sure the company’s actions align with public and governmental expectations.
Together, these two disciplines give you a powerful toolkit to navigate complex environments. By learning how to blend strategic insight with public engagement, you’ll be ready to help any organisation thrive in a world where business and society are more connected than ever.
By participating in this course you will:
This course is designed for professionals who work at the intersection of business, society, and politics or seeking to understand these external pressures. It is ideal for those tasked with addressing societal expectations, managing stakeholder relationships, or navigating political and regulatory challenges that impact their organisation's operations and reputation.
Whether you are involved in public affairs, corporate communication, sustainability, or strategic planning, this course provides the tools and insights needed to manage social and political issues effectively. Participants will gain practical knowledge to strengthen their organisation's ability to respond to external challenges and align with societal expectations for long-term success.
The classroom comprises of a diverse group of accomplished, driven and open-minded professionals from Europe and beyond, working in various management positions in the public and private sector, NGOs and consultancies.
Participants in this course are recommended to hold at least a bachelor degree.
Participants in this course are recommended to at least 3+ years of work experience.
Jean-Philippe Bonardi is a Professor of Strategic Management and Co-Managing Director of the Enterprise for Society Center (E4S). From 2015 to 2021, he served as Dean of HEC Lausanne, the Faculty of Business and Economics at the University of Lausanne.
3-5 June 2025
09.00-17.00
€3,600 including tuition, course material, lunches and refreshments. This fee does not include hotel accommodation.
The programme takes place in the Bayle building on the Woudestein Campus of Erasmus University Rotterdam.
Our general terms and conditions apply when you register for an open programme. Please review them to learn more about our policies for cancellation, deferral and substitution.
The participant can be substituted by someone from the same organisation on the same course without extra costs.
This course can also be taken as part of RSM's part-time Executive Master in Corporate Communication, a flexible and accredited master programme for professionals.
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