Durham University Business School have entered a new strategic partnership with POLIMI Graduate School of Management to design and deliver a multi-campus Executive MBA, launching in November 2026.
The collaboration brings together two leading European business schools to create a programme focused on responsible leadership, sustainable value creation and meaningful industry impact.
Curriculum shaped by shared expertise
Working with POLIMI, we will combine our academic strengths, research expertise and industry networks to deliver a curriculum grounded in rigorous insight and practical application. Executive coaching will be embedded throughout, offering participants personalised professional development. Students will also study across both the UK and Italy and contribute to applied projects with industry partners from each institution's network.
Dual degree and global network access
Graduates will receive a dual degree and join the alumni communities of both Durham University Business School and POLIMI Graduate School of Management. The partnership, formally signed in September, strengthens our international footprint and expands the opportunities we can offer to learners and employers.
Our partnership
Professor Kieran Fernandes, Executive Dean of Durham University Business School said: "Durham University Business School and POLIMI Graduate School of Management are combining complementary strengths to deliver an Executive Programmes that unites academic rigour with practical impact. Rooted in two dynamic innovation ecosystems, the programme will develop responsible leaders who can navigate technological change, drive sustainable growth, and create value for organisations and society."
Professor Federico Frattini, Dean of POLIMI Graduate School of Management said:
"We are proud to partner with Durham University Business School, a globally recognised institution with a long-standing tradition of excellence in teaching and research. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our internationalisation strategy and opens up exciting opportunities across student mobility, faculty exchange, and joint learning initiatives. Together, we aim to foster innovation and global impact by connecting our academic communities and empowering future leaders."
Advancing our global impact
Both we and POLIMI hold triple crown accreditation from AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS, and feature consistently in leading European and global rankings. The announcement comes as we celebrate our 60th anniversary and expand our teaching, research and partnership capabilities with the opening of the new Waterside building in central Durham.
Professor Fernandes emphasised that the partnership reinforces our commitment to ensuring that our research and expertise continue to deliver practical benefits to business and society at local, national and global levels.
