Chief Operating Officer (COO) Programme
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Program overview: Chief Operating Officer (COO) Programme
The Chief Operating Officer (COO) Programme from INSEAD Executive Education equips you to navigate unprecedented market challenges and drive cross-functional business development under the guidance of experts at one of the world’s foremost business management schools.
As the COO role extends to a strategic partnership with the CEO, leaders are expected to help shape long-term direction. This programme prepares you to shape an innovative vision, deliver long-term value and achieve operational excellence with confidence.
Through a blend of virtual sessions, experiential simulations and an action learning project, you will convert operational insight into clear strategic initiatives and roadmaps that create measurable value. Core modules on strategy, leadership and business acumen, supported by dedicated live topics on data governance, ethical AI and AI-enabled problem-solving, will help you guide your organisation’s AI adoption and clarity.
Key takeaways
The Chief Operating Officer Programme will enable you to:
Develop your operational thinking into strategic thinking, and articulate new strategic initiatives
Evaluate how a shift from an operational to a strategic mindset can transform your organisation, both inside and outside
Tackle large-scale problems by leveraging your operational excellence, working beyond your boundaries and acting as a strategic leader
Articulate the concepts of value creation and value capture by adopting a customer-centric perspective
Discuss how analytics, organisational agility, ecosystems’ capabilities and sustainability may enable your organisation to create more value
Evaluate your leadership capacities, including how to make decisions and navigate cognitive biases
Understand how to leverage your team, and use negotiations to create value
Define how strong leadership ability can influence teams and drive change at an organisational level.
Hear from past participants
Learning Journey
What will you learn in the Chief Operating Officer (COO) Programme?
The comprehensive curriculum has been developed by renowned thought leaders in business management. It includes a core component and a choice of three electives so that you can tailor your learning journey. The core modules span three areas crucial for every COO position today: strategy, business acumen and executive leadership.
The COO as a strategic partner
Aligning operations with strategy
Achieving operational excellence
Driving growth and executive growth strategies
Becoming a strategic leader
Leading digital strategy and transformation
Creative thinking for business
Developing business acumen
Customer centricity in a digital age: understanding and creating customer value
Strategic drivers of financial performance
Value-based financial decision-making
Operations analytics
Agile organisations
Alliances and ecosystems
The business case for sustainability
The COO as a leader
Towards better decisions
Effective negotiations
The future of leadership - and work
Managing global teams
Exercising influence to drive change
*Session topics are subject to change.
As part of the core learning modules, you will get the opportunity to engage with your cohort peers during interactive live virtual sessions conducted by INSEAD faculty who are experts in their respective fields.
Reflections on the COO role with José Luis Alvarez
Explore how the COO role is evolving within a shifting C-suite and what this means for influence and career paths. Examine industry variations, power dynamics and strategies for progressing towards broader leadership roles.
Fair process leadership with Ludo Van der Heyden
Learn how to blend process improvement with effective leadership through the principles of fair process leadership. Discuss how to apply PDCA, build engagement and maintain transparency across your organisation.
CarSmart simulation debrief with Noah Askin
Examine your feedback method, leadership skills under pressure and balancing results with culture. Consider virtual presence, interpersonal dynamics and how AI is reshaping workplace interactions and development.
Data governance, ethics and responsible AI for COOs with Ville Satopää
Understand the essentials of data governance, privacy and ethical AI in an increasingly AI-driven operational landscape. Explore frameworks that reduce bias, support transparency and help you stay aligned with emerging regulations.
Thinking with many minds: Leveraging AI to enhance human problem-solving for business with Phanish Puranam
Discover how AI agents can act as complementary thinkers to support analysis, creativity and decision-making. Learn practical ways to combine human and AI insights, while understanding the risks and limits of AI as a cognitive tool.
Leading AI-driven operational transformation: AI strategy, governance and execution with Theodoros Evgeniou
Move from AI theory to execution by developing strategy, roadmaps and governance structures. Assess readiness, identify value opportunities and manage risks to drive effective, responsible AI adoption across your organisation.
Rethinking global strategy – online: Learn to analyse forces of globalisation and identify winning strategies to lead a global business and build a competitive advantage through international expansion and by applying proven open innovation and knowledge-sharing methods.
Supply chain strategies for business – online: Gain the strategic capabilities required to navigate the complexities of today's supply chain landscape and deliver transformative change within your organisation.
M&A success strategies – online: This elective equips you with the essential tools and frameworks necessary to make better M&A decisions from start to finish.
Agile strategy execution: This elective provides the insights and tools to bridge the gap between the rational development of strategy and real-life execution. It helps identify hidden traps, balance the rational with the emotional and build the internal capability to continue successful strategy implementation.
Strategies for a circular economy – online: Learn about circular economy business models and ways to integrate circularity into existing processes while mitigating roadblocks.
Impactful Leadership for Sustainability: Learn to navigate the complexities of a leadership role and tackle issues through courage, emotional intelligence and an ability to read room dynamics. Gain an understanding of your leadership capacity relative to your role and deal with changes in complex systems while recognising the inevitability of actions within dynamic systems.
Meet your cohort peers and faculty in person at the INSEAD campus immersion and networking event. This event provides a valuable opportunity to form a lifelong global business community.
Note: Participants may take anywhere from eight to ten months to complete the programme depending on individual schedule and programme selections. Some topics are subject to change based on speaker availability.
Live virtual sessions: elevate operational decision-making by leveraging AI
The INSEAD COO Programme’s core curriculum includes a series of live virtual, interactive sessions designed to help operations leaders navigate shifting organisational dynamics, lead with clarity and apply emerging technologies with confidence. These sessions blend strategic reflection, leadership practice and hands-on exposure to AI and data-driven decision-making with a focus on what COOs need to thrive in complex, fast-moving environments.
Note: The AI specific topics listed in this non-exhaustive list are part of live virtual sessions embedded in the core learning modules. These session topics are subject to change based on speaker availability.
Project work
The action learning project (ALP) is a crucial practical aspect of the programme. You will apply programme insights to prepare an action plan that identifies and solves real-world operational issues in your company or industry based on the four pillars of operational leadership.
This project is designed to help you grow into a more effective COO and be seen as a catalyst for change. Through the journey, you will reflect on your leadership persona, strengthen your ability to influence teams and organisations and build the credibility needed to step into or progress within a COO role.
Regular check-in sessions and feedback from your programme facilitator and peers will assist you in refining your road map.
Note: The final action learning project (ALP) presentation is required to complete the programme.
On-campus networking event (two days | optional)
Get the opportunity to meet your cohort peers in person on the INSEAD campus in Fontainebleau during an optional two-day networking event that will feature in-person faculty sessions and simulations. This networking event features graduates from multiple cohorts, giving you the unique chance to network with executives worldwide and become part of a lifelong community of global leaders.
Note: The networking event is held once a year, which brings together participants from different senior executive programmes.
Key programme features
Experiential sessions
Test your understanding of key concepts through business simulations and live sessions.
Action learning project (ALP)
Apply your learnings to create an action plan for executing a high-impact business strategy.
Acclaimed case studies
Explore award-winning case studies with a focus on contemporary issues for COOs.
Peer interaction
Experience a high level of engagement with accomplished global peers, and exchange diverse perspectives.
Alumni benefits
Gain INSEAD alumni status upon completion of the programme, and receive select alumni benefits.
Programme facilitator
Craft your learning journey in line with your career goals with a programme facilitator assigned to your cohort.
Alumni benefits
Join INSEAD’s powerful global network of more than 71,000 alumni in over 180 countries, and receive select benefits, including:
Access to more than 1,000 events and programmes annually organised by INSEAD and the INSEAD Alumni Association
Access to the INSEAD Alumni Lifelong Learning programme
Career development for alumni, including career coaching, peer-to-peer advising and mentoring programmes
Benefit from preferential rates on in-person INSEAD Open Enrolment Programmes and Open Online Programmes
Networking tools and a lifelong INSEAD email.
*Upon completion of the programme, graduates of the Chief Operating Officer Programme will gain complimentary alumni status for a period of three years. A minimal annual membership fee will be required to maintain the status thereafter.
Why INSEAD Executive Education?
As one of the world’s leading and largest graduate business schools, INSEAD brings together people, cultures and ideas to develop responsible leaders who transform business and society. Our research, teaching and partnerships reflect this global perspective and cultural diversity.
INSEAD Executive Education offers over 70 open programmes, including 20+ Open Online Programmes and a portfolio of over 200 customised programmes. These programmes are well received by more than 22,000 participants every year.
Hear from the programme director
“Organisations today require visionary COOs who can balance innovation with operational leadership to achieve growth and profitability in the uncertain business environment. INSEAD Executive Education imparts essential skills and knowledge to help you spearhead strategic planning, champion change and excel as a partner to the CEO.”
– Professor Guillaume Roels
The Timken Chaired Professor of Global Technology and Innovation
Meet the faculty
The global team of cross-disciplinary INSEAD faculty includes experts in technology and operations management, strategy, accounting, economics and organisational behaviour.
Programme Director for the Chief Operating Officer (COO) Programme, Professor of Technology and Operations Management, The Timken Chaired Professor of Global Technology and In...
Visiting Professor of Organisational Behaviour
Professor of Technology and Operations Management, The Bianca and James Pitt Chair in Environmental Sustainability
Professor of Accounting and Control
Professor of Economics, The Goltz Fellowship in Business and Society INSEAD
Associate Professor of Organisational Behaviour
Affiliate Professor of Strategy
Assistant Professor of Technology and Operations Management
Professor of Strategy The John H. Loudon Chaired Professor of International Management Chair, Strategy Area
Professor of Technology and Operations Management Chair, Technology and Operations Management , Director of the Heinrich and Esther Baumann – Steiner Fund for Creativity and B...
Professor of Management Practice Co-Director of INSEAD Marketing and Sales Excellence Initiative (MSEI)
Professor of Management Practice
Emeritus Professor of Technology and Operations Management, The INSEAD Chaired Professor of Corporate Governance
Professor of Strategy, The Roland Berger Chaired Professor of Strategy and Organisation Design, Research Director of the INSEAD-Wharton Alliance
Professor of Technology and Business
Programme facilitator
Pop-up business partner, hands-on founder advisor, fractional CxO
Jill Kravetz is a multifaceted executive with experience starting and operating several businesses across sectors. Kravetz is frequently called on by business owners and senio...
Past Participant Profile
Work Experience
Top Industries
Top Countries
Where Past Learners Come From
Disclaimer: All product and company names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Use of product and company names does not imply any affiliation with or endorsement by the holders.
The list of companies is only indicative and not exhaustive.
Certificate
Upon completion of the programme, participants will be awarded a verified digital certificate by INSEAD Executive Education.
The certificate image shown is for illustrative purposes only and may be subject to change at the discretion of INSEAD Executive Education.
Who is the Chief Operating Officer (COO) Programme for?
The Chief Operating Officer Programme is ideal for:
New and emerging COOs looking to gain strategic insights to drive operational excellence in their organisations
Heads of operations and operations leaders looking to advance into C-level positions and gain executive leadership skills to enhance their existing skill set.
Participants should have:
A minimum of 10 years of work experience
Fluency in written and spoken English
International exposure (preferred)
FAQs
The Chief Operating Officer (COO) Programme from INSEAD Executive Education is a 10- to 12-month COO course designed for senior operation leaders. It helps participants move from operational oversight to strategic leadership by covering strategy, business acumen and executive leadership. The programme combines online modules, live virtual sessions, electives and an action learning project.
Whether the INSEAD COO programme is worth it depends on your career goals and leadership aspirations. The programme is taught by INSEAD's world-class faculty and gives participants access to global peers, case studies and alumni benefits. Upon programme completion, participants receive a verified digital certificate by INSEAD Executive Education, strengthening their credibility in senior executive roles. For aspiring or current COOs, it offers a structured path to enhance strategic impact and leadership influence.
COO stands for Chief Operating Officer. It is a senior executive role responsible for managing day-to-day operations and working closely with the CEO to implement strategy and drive growth. The INSEAD COO programme equips leaders to excel in this evolving position.
Participants should typically have:
At least 10 years of work experience
Fluency in written and spoken English
International exposure (preferred)
The course is ideal for new and emerging COOs, as well as heads of operations preparing for C-suite roles.
Becoming a COO requires a mix of operational expertise, strategic vision and leadership skills. Many COOs advance from operations, finance or strategy roles. A structured programme like the INSEAD Executive Education’s Chief Operating Officer (COO) Programme helps executives build the business acumen and leadership mindset required to succeed as a COO.
The COO and CFO are both C-suite executives, but their responsibilities differ. The CFO oversees financial strategy and reporting, while the COO focuses on operations, execution and organisational performance. Whether one role is “higher” depends on the company structure, and both typically report to the CEO.
COO training involves gaining cross-functional leadership experience and formal executive education. INSEAD Executive Education’s Chief Operating Officer (COO) Programme provides a structured curriculum covering strategy, operations, financial decision-making, leadership and digital transformation, preparing executives to step into or excel in the COO role.
The value of the COO programme extends beyond the certificate itself. Participants of this COO programme not only gain a verified digital certificate but also alumni status, joining a diverse network of 71,000+ executives worldwide. Joining this programme from one of the world’s leading business schools allows for engagement with live virtual faculty sessions, case-based learning and a diverse cohort, creating opportunities for professional growth and connection within INSEAD’s worldwide executive community.
Unlike generic leadership courses, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) Programme from INSEAD Executive Education is explicitly tailored for the COO role. It blends strategic leadership, operations management and innovation. The programme features include electives, live faculty interaction, an action learning project, and an optional on-campus networking event at the INSEAD campus in Fontainebleau.
This programme is ideal for:
New and aspiring COOs seeking strategic insights
Heads of operations advancing toward the C-suite
It is designed for professionals ready to expand beyond operations into strategy and long-term value creation.
The Chief Operating Officer (COO) Programme from INSEAD Executive Education is n 10–12 month learning journey. It combines core modules, electives, live virtual sessions, and an optional on-campus networking event in Fontainebleau. The flexible online format allows executives to balance their learning with work and busy schedules.
The action learning project (ALP) is a practical component where participants apply concepts from the COO programme to address a real business challenge in their organisation. It ensures learning translates into measurable workplace impact.
The INSEAD Chief Operating Officer (COO) Programme follows an immersive learning process. Participants are expected to fulfil a certain minimum criteria to earn the Certificate of Completion. This includes successful completion of core and elective activities and an action learning project (ALP) .
As participants progress through each core module and elective, reviewing the weekly content, they earn points for each activity. Participants need to have earned a certain minimum number of points at the end of each core module and elective. In addition, participants are also required to submit a core action learning project at the end of the core phase.
To complete the programme and earn the certificate, participants are required to:
Complete a minimum of 80 percent of all in-platform learning activities
Submit at least three weekly action learning project assignments per core module and elective
Submit a timely ALP.
On-campus attendance is optional for this programme. You will have the opportunity to participate in 1.5-day immersion, networking event at the end of the programme. However, the curriculum is fully online and consists of a mix of recorded video and live virtual sessions with fellow participants, learning coach and faculty.
Yes, of course! The learning experience is especially designed to encourage interaction and simulate as close an experience to face-to-face interaction as possible. Participants can interact with each other through discussion forums, live forums, webinars and virtual networking interspersed throughout the learning journey.
In addition, the programme concludes with an optional in-person immersion, networking event.
Yes, we purposefully manage class sizes to ensure ample faculty-to-participant time. INSEAD faculty will also regularly read and respond to your comments in the discussion forums. The faculty is assisted in these interactions by the learning coach, acting as a bridge between the participants and the faculty.
The Chief Operating Officer (COO) Programme has been designed with your busy schedule in mind. You will be required to commit not more than three to five hours per week, enabling you to benefit from this impactful programme while balancing your work responsibilities. The programme offers a blend of self-paced modules and live interaction.
The learning journey includes live and asynchronous online sessions with renowned faculty, industry experts and global peers. You can take advantage of live sessions and the Slack channel to ask questions and discuss ideas with your programme facilitator and cohort participants. Real-world examples and a debrief of the programme learnings are delivered through a combination of recorded video and live online lectures.
Unfortunately, it is not possible to take any more electives than the specified number. The electives are designed to help you gain specialised skills in areas that are aligned with your career so that you can dedicate focused time for learning and honing those skills.
Yes, we provide closed-captioning and transcripts for all pre-recorded videos as well as closed-captioning for recordings of live sessions.
Eruditus collects all programme payments, provides learner enrolment and programme support, and manages learning platform services. INSEAD is collaborating with Emeritus (part of the Eruditus Group) to offer a portfolio of high-impact programs.
For the programme refund and deferral policy, please click the link here.
Programme fees for Emeritus programmes with INSEAD may not be paid for with (a) funds from the GI Bill, the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Act of 2008 or similar types of military education funding benefits or (b) Title IV financial aid funds.
Connect with a programme adviser for a 1:1 session
Email: INSEAD_COO@emeritus.org
Phone: 000 8009191971 (India*)/ +65 3129 7301 (Singapore)/ +44 1416 732351 (UK) / +1 234 603 6577 (US)/ +971 80 0088601096 (UAE) / +52 55965 46131 (LATAM)
*If you are dialing the India number, please make sure to include the first three zeros (000).
Early applications are encouraged. Admissions are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Flexible payment options available.
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