Making innovation happen: Cambridge module for the Executive MBA Program of the China Europe International Business School
Project in numbers
80 students
25+ programme hours per module
China Europe International Business School
The China Europe International Business School (CEIBS) Global Executive MBA (EMBA) is a top-ranked programme for high-achieving business leaders who want to take their career and personal development to the next level. The international component of the course is essential, with modules available in more than 20 destinations worldwide – one of the most popular being the Institute for Manufacturing (IfM), University of Cambridge.
The collaboration was initiated by Professor Terence Tsai, who recognised the importance of offering a Cambridge module to enrich the existing curriculum. “It’s essential that our students are exposed to diverse perspectives and insights from a world-leading institution like Cambridge,” he explains, “to keep them open to new ideas and ways of thinking.”
What is the value of the Cambridge Module?
Organised by IfM Engage‘s Executive and Professional Development team, the module in Cambridge at the IfM is designed to extend the students’ knowledge related to innovation, with a particular focus on proven tools and approaches that support organisations in making technology enabled innovation happen. Crucially, the module allows students to explore the Cambridge innovation ecosystem, and to appreciate the key components to making innovation happen to create new value for society.
Fostering an innovation mindset and broadening students’ global outlook, the module has a lasting impact, explains Professor Tsai, “equipping participants with globally informed perspectives and practical frameworks that enhance their leadership capabilities and drive innovation within their organisations”.
They return from Cambridge with a deeper understanding and practical tools to navigate the complexities of technology and innovation management—capabilities that contribute to their long-term professional growth and strategic impact within their organisations.
“The Cambridge module is an excellent complement to our EMBA curriculum, offering in-depth, practical tools in innovation and entrepreneurship from a fresh and different perspective. It emphasises real-world application over theory—something business leaders value. The program is exceptionally well-designed and managed, with impressive attention to detail and responsiveness throughout.”
– Terence Tsai, Associate Professor of Strategy and International Business, CEIBS
How does the IfM complement CEIBS EMBA programme?
The IfM module provides executives with a strategic, real-world perspective on Technology and Innovation Management, combining practical tools with insights from key players of the Cambridge Innovation Ecosystem.
Participants explore key methodologies related to technology enabled innovation — while engaging with stakeholders across sectors to understand how innovation is developed, managed, and successfully brought to market at different stages of organisational maturity.
During their time with us, students delve into key topics including:
🔹 Managing Innovation
🔹 Strategic Technology Management
🔹 Technology Intelligence
🔹 Managing Partnerships
In addition to the academic curriculum, participants engage in company visits, including to industry leaders such as Domino Printing Sciences or through speakers such as Dr Eric Mayes from Endomag. These provide valuable, real-world insights, allowing participants to observe firsthand how leading organisations implement innovative practices and technologies, further enriching their learning experience.
Participants also experience aspects of the Cambridge Innovation Ecosystem with visits to St John’s Innovation Centre, Cambridge Science Park and the University of Cambridge West Cambridge Site.
The Cambridge experience
Studying in Cambridge offers more than just world-class academics—it’s an experience rooted in tradition and innovation. Founded in 1209, the University of Cambridge is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world.
The city itself is home to over 5,000 knowledge-intensive companies, forming the heart of the ‘Silicon Fen’ tech cluster, which contributes more than £15 billion annually to the UK economy. The University sits at the heart of one of the world’s most successful innovation and technology clusters.
Cambridge offers a unique learning environment where centuries-old colleges sit alongside cutting-edge research labs and start-up incubators.
As part of the programme experience, CEIBS students typically enjoy a formal dinner at one of Cambridge’s traditional colleges, offering a taste of the city’s rich academic heritage. It’s a place where students can immerse themselves in a charming, historic setting while engaging with one of the world’s most dynamic innovation ecosystems.
Meet the IfM Faculty
Professor Tim Minshall
Dr John C Taylor Professor of Innovation and Head of the Institute for Manufacturing, University of Cambridge
Dr Clive Kerr
Dr Imoh Ilevbare
Dr Letizia Mortara
Michèle Routley
“This rich and intense learning experience brings a holistic view of making technology enabled innovation happen – a valuable component for any EMBA programme in this world, where the pace of technological change is accelerating and driving corporate success.”
– Judith Shawcross, Head of Executive and Professional Development, IfM Engage
The immersive learning experience of the course is unforgettable. It has allowed us to perceive, experience and reminisce beauty, and reconsider the original intention of entrepreneurship and innovation, in making the world a better place! The detailed arrangements of the course are well-planned, including morning classes and afternoon site visits for the first two days, which I believe is also designed to help us with jet lag adjustments.
The overall experience exceeded expectations, and I gained a lot from this course in terms of learning. It inspired in-depth thinking about innovation, making me realise that innovation is a science rather than just a feeling. The course on Technology Intelligence enabled me to reflect on the importance of information in the decision-making process, which was a great enlightenment for me.
How can we help you grow your talent?
Enhance your programme through collaboration with the University of Cambridge. Bring world-class research, applied insights, and a transformative international experience to your students.
Judith Shawcross
Head of Executive and Professional Development, IfM Engage
Contact Judith today to explore partnership opportunities that inspire innovation, leadership, and global academic excellence.