ISB Leadership with AI Programme 2026: Complete Executive Education Guide

Programme Overview and ISB Executive Education

The ISB Leadership with AI programme represents one of the most comprehensive executive education offerings at the intersection of artificial intelligence and organizational leadership available from an Indian business school. Developed by the Indian School of Business (ISB)—ranked the number one research institution in India and the fourth-best business school in Asia—this 20-week online programme equips senior professionals with both the technical understanding of AI and ML technologies and the leadership capabilities needed to drive AI-enabled transformation within their organizations.

What distinguishes the ISB Leadership with AI programme from typical AI executive courses is its deliberately dual focus. Rather than treating artificial intelligence as a purely technical subject or leadership as a separate discipline, the programme weaves these two domains together across 17 carefully sequenced modules. The first half builds a robust understanding of AI technologies, business models, and implementation strategies, while the second half develops the personal leadership, team management, crisis handling, and ethical reasoning skills that executives need to lead organizations through the disruption that AI creates.

Delivered in collaboration with Emeritus, the programme draws on ISB’s formidable faculty resources while providing the flexible, self-paced online delivery that working executives require. With 140 pre-recorded video lectures, 40 assignments, 18 live office hours, real-world case studies, and capstone projects, the programme balances theoretical depth with practical application. Participants who complete the programme with a qualifying mark of 70% or above earn ISB Executive Alumni status. The programme is delivered in collaboration with Emeritus, a global leader in online executive education—a credential that opens doors to a network of over 50,000 executives across industries and geographies.

The programme is particularly well-suited to senior stakeholders building AI-oriented businesses, functional leaders seeking to leverage AI in their decision-making, and data scientists who want to bridge the gap between technical capabilities and business value creation. Past cohorts have included professionals from Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Samsung, Walmart, and other global leaders, with 59% of participants bringing 10-20 years of experience to the learning community. For professionals exploring other executive AI programmes, our guide to Edinburgh’s Leading AI Programme offers a complementary perspective from a European institution.

Curriculum Structure: 17 Modules Across AI and Leadership

The ISB Leadership with AI curriculum spans 17 modules that progressively build from AI fundamentals to advanced leadership capabilities. This structure ensures that participants develop not merely an understanding of what AI can do, but the strategic vision and organizational skills to make it happen within their own contexts.

The programme begins with four foundational modules covering AI and ML concepts. Module 1 provides an overview of AI and machine learning, exploring the key reasons behind AI’s rise and its applications across managerial functions. Module 2 dives deeper into specific AI and ML technologies, helping participants understand which methods suit different sectors and functions. Module 3 addresses managerial trade-offs—the practical benefits and limitations that leaders must weigh when deploying AI solutions. Module 4 introduces the concept of augmented intelligence, where AI aids rather than replaces human decision-making, and honestly examines AI’s current limitations.

Modules 5 through 8 shift focus to business strategy and transformation. These modules teach participants how to harness AI for competitive advantage, assess organizational readiness for AI adoption, develop frameworks for data monetization, and build business models for AI-led companies. The Business Models and Technology Matrix introduced in Module 5 provides a practical tool for assessing where an organization stands on its business transformation journey, while Module 6 tackles the implementation challenges that derail many corporate AI initiatives.

The leadership track (Modules 9 through 17) is where the programme truly differentiates itself. Two modules on Leadership in the Age of AI explore how digital capabilities transform business models, examining the three key opportunities: humans augmenting machines, machines augmenting humans, and reimagining business processes entirely. The remaining modules cover personal leadership development, team leadership, organizational leadership, crisis management, and leading through ESG challenges—ensuring that graduates can lead effectively at every level.

This comprehensive structure means that participants finish the programme equipped not just to understand AI but to champion its adoption, manage the human dimensions of AI-driven change, and navigate the ethical and societal implications that responsible AI leadership demands.

ISB Leadership with AI: Business Strategy Modules

The business strategy modules form the analytical backbone of the ISB Leadership with AI programme, providing frameworks and tools that participants can immediately apply to their organizational challenges. These modules draw heavily on real-world case studies from companies that have successfully—and unsuccessfully—navigated AI-driven transformation.

Module 5, Business Transformation, introduces participants to the strategic use of AI for market disruption. The module presents a structured framework for developing AI-driven strategies and uses the Business Models and Technology Matrix to help executives assess their organization’s current position on the transformation journey. Case studies from companies like Jio—which transformed digital adoption across India including rural areas—illustrate how AI-enabled platforms can create entirely new market categories.

Module 6 addresses what is arguably the most critical challenge in enterprise AI: implementation. Many organizations invest heavily in AI technologies only to struggle with deployment, adoption, and value realization. This module provides a framework for evaluating company preparedness for AI adoption, monetizing data assets, and building the organizational capabilities that distinguish AI-led companies from those merely experimenting with the technology. The module examines data and AI-led disruptive innovation through the lens of fintech, analysing how companies like Paytm and SBI have used blockchain and analytical technologies to reshape financial services.

Modules 7 and 8 explore business model innovation in depth. Participants learn frameworks for integrating value creation and value appropriation, applying data-driven business innovation to enhance performance, and using AI and analytics to drive market value. Case studies from Dell, Alipay, and Pfizer demonstrate how diverse organizations across technology, financial services, and pharmaceuticals have leveraged these principles to generate competitive advantage. The progression from Module 7’s theoretical frameworks to Module 8’s data-driven applications ensures that participants develop both conceptual understanding and practical capability.

Module 11, covering Ethics, Privacy, and Regulations in AI and ML, represents a critical strategic consideration rather than merely a compliance requirement. As AI governance frameworks evolve globally, executives who understand the ethical landscape can position their organizations to build trust with customers, regulators, and society while avoiding the reputational risks that careless AI deployment creates. This module prepares leaders to anticipate regulatory developments and embed ethical considerations into AI strategy from the outset. Similar themes are explored in our Carnegie Mellon Tepper MBA guide, which examines how technology and ethics intersect in business education.

Leadership Development Track

The leadership development modules (12 through 17) elevate the ISB Leadership with AI programme well beyond a typical AI executive course. Rather than treating leadership as a peripheral topic, these modules provide a systematic framework for developing leadership capabilities at every level—from self-leadership to leading societies.

Module 12, Leading Myself, begins with the foundational premise that effective AI leadership starts with self-awareness. The module explores leadership in times of disruption, the interplay between attitude and aptitude, the development of leadership charisma and executive presence, and John Maxwell’s five levels of leadership framework. The provocative question “Why should anyone be led by you?” challenges participants to articulate their leadership value proposition—a particularly important exercise for executives who must convince skeptical teams to embrace AI-driven change.

Module 13, Leading Teams, equips participants with the influence skills needed to drive AI adoption across organizational boundaries. Topics include influencing beyond hierarchies, managing upwards, the strategic use of storytelling, creating diverse teams, and building psychological safety. This last element is particularly relevant for AI implementation, where teams need the psychological safety to experiment, fail, and learn without fear of punishment—the very conditions that accelerate innovation.

Module 14, Leading Organisations, addresses the broader organizational challenges of AI transformation. The module covers taking ownership of transformation initiatives, navigating the critical first 100 days in a new leadership role, and crafting organizational culture that supports innovation. These practical frameworks help participants translate AI strategy into organizational reality, addressing the cultural and structural barriers that often prevent good strategies from achieving their potential.

Modules 15 through 17 extend leadership to crisis situations and societal impact. The Crisis Management module includes simulations and business continuity planning exercises, while the Leading Societies and Leading Through ESG Challenges modules address the broader responsibilities of business leaders. These modules recognize that AI-enabled organizations operate within society, and that leaders who understand their societal obligations build more sustainable and resilient businesses.

Faculty and Teaching Methodology

The ISB Leadership with AI programme draws on an exceptional faculty roster that combines academic rigor with extensive industry experience. Professor Rajendra Srivastava, former Dean of ISB and Novartis Professor of Marketing Strategy and Innovation, brings over 30 years of academic experience spanning the University of Texas at Austin, Emory University, and Singapore Management University, where he served as Provost and Deputy President. His research on measuring the impact of market-facing business processes and the value of market-based assets provides the analytical framework that underpins much of the programme’s strategic content.

Nandkishore Doreswamy contributes 34 years of global C-suite experience, having retired as CEO and Executive Vice President of Nestlé for Asia, Oceania, and Africa. His expertise in turnaround situations, crisis management, and transforming traditional businesses through technology-based innovation brings unparalleled practical authority to the leadership modules. As a Harvard Business Review author and IIM Ahmedabad MBA graduate with a B.Tech from IIT Delhi, he bridges the worlds of technology and business leadership with rare authenticity.

Professor Anand Nandkumar, Executive Director of the Srini Raju Centre for IT and the Networked Economy (SRITNE), brings deep research expertise in high-technology industries including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and software. With a PhD from Carnegie Mellon University and prior experience in both Silicon Valley startups and major financial services firms, he provides the academic rigor and industry credibility needed to teach AI strategy effectively.

The teaching methodology combines 140+ pre-recorded video lectures with 18 live office hours, 40+ assignments, case studies, and capstone projects. An important distinction to understand is that ISB faculty deliver the pre-recorded content but are not directly involved in weekly live sessions. Instead, Industry Practitioner Programme Leaders conduct the live office hours, providing doubt-clearing, real-world examples, and practical guidance. This model allows participants to benefit from world-class faculty instruction while receiving hands-on support from practitioners who understand current industry realities.

The self-paced format is designed for working executives, with content available for on-demand viewing and re-watching throughout the 12-month platform access period. Assignments are graded by Programme Leaders and the Emeritus grading team, with a 70% qualifying mark required for certification. This balance of flexibility and accountability ensures that participants engage meaningfully with the material while maintaining their professional responsibilities.

Admission Requirements and Target Audience

The ISB Leadership with AI programme maintains an accessible entry requirement of a Graduate or Diploma Holder qualification (10+2+3) in any discipline. This deliberate inclusivity reflects the programme’s recognition that AI leadership is needed across all professional backgrounds, not just among those with technical degrees. However, the programme’s content and pacing are designed for experienced professionals, and the participant profile consistently reflects this positioning.

The programme explicitly targets three audience segments. Senior stakeholders who want to build or grow AI and ML-oriented businesses or scale AI across their organizations form the primary cohort. These executives need strategic AI understanding combined with the leadership skills to drive enterprise-wide transformation. Functional leaders in marketing, finance, operations, and other domains form the second segment, seeking to understand how AI can enhance decision-making within their specific areas of responsibility. The third segment comprises data scientists and technical architects who want to bridge the gap between technical AI capabilities and business value creation—professionals who can build AI solutions but need to communicate their value to non-technical stakeholders.

Analysis of past participant profiles reveals a programme that attracts experienced, senior professionals. Fifty-nine percent of participants bring 10-20 years of experience, while 30% have 21-30 years and 7% have over 30 years. The IT, Telecom, and Engineering sectors account for 63% of participants, with Manufacturing, Marketing, and Retail contributing 13%. Companies represented include Google, Microsoft, Amazon, PepsiCo, Samsung, Cognizant, Walmart, and Wells Fargo—indicating that the programme attracts professionals from major global enterprises who see AI leadership as a critical career investment.

This experienced cohort composition creates a rich learning environment where participants learn as much from each other’s diverse professional perspectives as from the formal curriculum. The cohort-based learning design encourages interaction through discussion boards and collaborative exercises, transforming the online format from an isolated experience into a genuine professional community. For professionals also considering MBA-level education, our Sabancı University MBA guide explores how traditional MBA programmes are integrating technology leadership into their curricula.

Programme Fees, Format, and Logistics

The ISB Leadership with AI programme is priced at INR 1,75,000 plus 18% GST, bringing the total investment to approximately INR 2,06,500 (roughly USD 2,500 at current exchange rates). Instalment payment options are available with additional convenience charges, making the programme accessible to professionals who prefer to spread the cost. A refund can be requested within 14 days of programme commencement; after this period, the fee becomes non-refundable.

The programme runs for 20 weeks with a recommended weekly commitment of 4-6 hours. This time investment is distributed across pre-recorded video lectures (the primary learning modality), assignments, discussion board participation, and weekly live office hours. The fully online format eliminates travel requirements and allows participants to integrate learning into their existing professional and personal schedules. Platform access extends to 12 months from the programme start date, providing ample time to revisit content and complete outstanding work.

An Orientation Week at the programme’s start introduces participants to their cohort and the learning tools, establishing the community foundation that supports engagement throughout the 20 weeks. Weekly goals with assignment deadlines provide structure within the self-paced framework, ensuring steady progress while allowing flexibility in when participants engage with the material each week.

Participants who complete the programme with the required 70% qualifying mark receive a verified digital certificate from ISB Executive Education, which can be shared on LinkedIn, resumes, and cover letters. The certificate carries the weight of ISB’s brand recognition and is complemented by ISB Executive Alumni status—a credential whose networking and professional development benefits extend well beyond the programme itself.

Additional benefits include a complimentary annual digital Wall Street Journal membership, providing unlimited access to business, technology, and world news coverage. This thoughtful inclusion reflects the programme’s emphasis on keeping leaders informed about the rapidly evolving business and technology landscape.

Career Outcomes and ISB Alumni Benefits

The career outcomes from the ISB Leadership with AI programme are anchored in two pillars: the competencies developed through the curriculum and the professional network accessed through ISB Executive Alumni status. Together, these create meaningful career acceleration opportunities for participants.

The programme develops seven specific learning outcomes that participants can articulate to employers and stakeholders. These include the ability to identify and plan AI/ML implementation opportunities, apply data-driven innovation best practices, create executive summaries for AI implementation plans, describe human-machine augmentation opportunities, change organizational mindsets for AI-enabled transformation, navigate AI ethics and regulations, and assess leadership readiness for AI innovation. Each outcome maps directly to capabilities that organizations increasingly demand from senior leaders.

ISB Executive Alumni status provides enduring career benefits that distinguish this programme from competitors. Graduates receive an ISB email ID—a tangible credential that signals membership in an elite professional community. Access to the 50,000+ ISB executive alumni network opens doors to mentorship, business development, and career opportunities across industries and geographies. The ISB Executive Education Network Group on LinkedIn provides ongoing learning and networking, while exclusive invitations to webinars, conferences, and master classes ensure continuous professional development.

The 20% preferential pricing discount on future ISB Executive Education programmes encourages lifelong learning and deeper engagement with ISB’s extensive portfolio of executive programmes. This benefit has significant financial value for professionals who pursue multiple ISB programmes over their careers. Access to ISB resources including podcasts, newsletters, and research reports keeps alumni connected to cutting-edge thinking in business and technology. Graduates may also be invited to serve as Guest Speakers at ISB Executive events, providing visibility and thought leadership opportunities within the ISB ecosystem. For those also exploring leadership programmes from European institutions, our Wharton Executive Presence and Influence guide examines another highly regarded executive education offering.

Case Studies and Real-World Application

The ISB Leadership with AI programme distinguishes itself through its extensive use of real-world case studies that illustrate how AI concepts and leadership principles play out in practice. These case studies span industries, geographies, and organizational sizes, ensuring that participants can find relevant parallels to their own professional contexts.

The Amazon healthcare case study examines how the world’s largest e-commerce company is applying AI across the healthcare value chain—from supply chain optimization and distribution logistics to clinical research. This case demonstrates how AI capabilities developed in one domain (retail logistics) can be transferred to create disruption in entirely different sectors, a pattern that participants learn to recognize and exploit in their own industries.

The Microsoft case study focuses on governance and stakeholder considerations in AI implementation, exploring how one of the world’s most AI-invested companies navigates the organizational and ethical complexities of deploying AI at scale. The case study on Microsoft’s cultural transformation under leadership changes illustrates how changing mindsets and organizational culture is as critical as deploying technology—a theme that resonates throughout the leadership modules.

The Jio case study is particularly compelling for understanding AI’s potential to transform entire economies. By examining how Jio democratized digital access across India, including rural areas, the case illustrates the societal scale of AI-enabled business models and the leadership challenges of operating at population-level impact. The Alipay case provides a parallel perspective from China, showing how product innovation, customer centricity, and supply chain AI can drive global expansion.

Pharmaceutical case studies, notably Pfizer, demonstrate how AI alignment with customer and shareholder value creates sustainable competitive advantage in heavily regulated industries. The Ashok Leyland case explores crisis reinvention—how a traditional manufacturing company responded to dramatic sales declines through AI-driven transformation, providing directly applicable lessons for participants facing similar challenges in their organizations.

The capstone project requirement ensures that learning is not merely theoretical. Participants must apply programme concepts to a real-world challenge from their own organization, creating an actionable AI implementation or improvement plan that can be presented to stakeholders upon programme completion. This practical output transforms the learning investment into immediate organizational value.

How ISB Leadership with AI Compares to Similar Programmes

The executive education landscape for AI and leadership programmes has expanded significantly, and prospective participants benefit from understanding how the ISB offering positions itself within this competitive field. Several distinguishing characteristics shape the ISB Leadership with AI programme’s unique value proposition.

The programme’s most significant differentiator is its balanced dual focus on AI strategy and comprehensive leadership development. Many competing programmes focus primarily on AI technology and business applications, treating leadership as a secondary consideration. The ISB programme allocates roughly equal weight to both domains, recognizing that the primary barrier to organizational AI adoption is not technological but human—leaders who cannot manage change, build psychological safety, navigate crises, and address ethical concerns will struggle to realize AI’s potential regardless of their technical understanding.

The breadth of the leadership track—spanning self-leadership, team leadership, organizational leadership, crisis management, and societal leadership including ESG—is unusually comprehensive for an AI-focused programme. This six-level leadership framework ensures that graduates can lead effectively whether they are managing their own development, building diverse teams, transforming organizational culture, or navigating the societal implications of AI deployment.

ISB Executive Alumni status represents a tangible, enduring benefit that most competing programmes cannot match. The combination of an ISB email ID, access to a 50,000+ executive network, preferential pricing on future programmes, and ongoing access to ISB resources creates a professional ecosystem that extends the programme’s value far beyond its 20-week duration. For professionals in India and across Asia, where ISB’s brand carries exceptional weight, this alumni status alone may justify the programme investment.

The programme’s pricing at approximately INR 2,06,500 (roughly USD 2,500) positions it as highly competitive compared to equivalent offerings from western business schools, which often charge five to ten times more for comparable content. This value proposition is particularly compelling for professionals in Asia who want world-class executive education without the premium pricing and travel requirements of programmes delivered in the US or Europe.

Prospective participants should consider certain trade-offs. The online-only format, while offering maximum flexibility, lacks the in-person networking and immersive campus experience that residential programmes provide. The distinction between ISB faculty (who deliver pre-recorded content) and Programme Leaders (who conduct live sessions) means that direct interaction with ISB’s distinguished faculty is limited. Finally, the self-paced nature requires strong personal discipline—participants who thrive with more structured schedules may need to create their own accountability mechanisms. Our guide to the LMU Munich Global MBA provides an interesting comparison of how blended formats can combine online flexibility with residential experiences.