Introduction

In today's hyper-digitalized and interconnected business landscape, effective IT governance and a robust digital boardroom strategy are paramount for driving innovation, managing complex risks, and ensuring organizational resilience. Technology is no longer merely a support function but a core strategic asset, demanding that leaders possess a comprehensive understanding of digital capabilities, cybersecurity threats, and data-driven decision-making. This comprehensive training course is meticulously designed to equip current and aspiring board members and senior executives with the essential frameworks and practical strategies to provide exemplary oversight in the digital age.

This 5-day intensive program will empower participants to cultivate a deep understanding of digital transformation oversight, master cyber risk management, and refine their ability to lead with agility and strategic foresight in a tech-driven environment. You will learn to integrate IT considerations into strategic planning, enhance board-level discussions on complex technical topics, and foster a culture of digital vigilance and responsible technology adoption. By mastering these critical competencies, you will amplify your impact in the boardroom and confidently steer your organization towards a secure, innovative, and digitally mature future.

Duration: 5 Days

Target Audience

• Board Members (Executive and Non-Executive)
• Company Directors
• Chief Information Officers (CIOs)
• Chief Technology Officers (CTOs)
• Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs)
• Senior Executives (CEOs, CFOs, COOs)
• Governance Professionals
• Legal Counsel advising Boards
• Compliance Officers
• Consultants specializing in IT governance

Objectives

• Understand the core principles of IT governance and its strategic importance.
• Develop a strategic mindset for overseeing technology risks and opportunities.
• Master frameworks for cybersecurity governance and data privacy compliance.
• Learn to integrate technology and data insights into board decision-making.
• Cultivate effective oversight of digital strategy and innovation initiatives.
• Enhance communication skills for discussing complex IT topics in the boardroom.
• Understand the ethical implications of emerging technologies (e.g., AI, automation).
• Develop strategies for fostering a digitally fluent and resilient board.
• Create a personalized action plan for enhancing IT governance and digital boardroom strategy.

Course Modules

Module 1: Foundations of IT Governance

• Defining IT governance and its alignment with corporate governance.
• Understanding the strategic importance of technology for business value.
• Exploring common IT governance frameworks (e.g., COBIT, ITIL).
• The roles and responsibilities of the board, IT committee, and IT leadership.
• Case studies of IT governance successes and failures.

Module 2: Digital Strategy and Innovation Oversight

• The board's role in evaluating and approving digital transformation strategies.
• Overseeing investments in emerging technologies (e.g., AI, blockchain, IoT).
• Fostering a culture of innovation and agile development.
• Assessing the impact of digital initiatives on business models and competitive advantage.
• Ensuring alignment between IT strategy and overall corporate objectives.

Module 3: Cybersecurity Governance and Risk Management

• Understanding the board's fiduciary duties related to cybersecurity.
• Key cybersecurity threats, vulnerabilities, and their potential impact.
• Developing a robust cyber-resilience strategy and incident response plan.
• Overseeing cybersecurity investments, controls, and risk mitigation.
• Communicating cyber risks effectively to the board and stakeholders.

Module 4: Data Governance and Privacy Compliance

• The board's role in overseeing data governance frameworks.
• Understanding key data privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA, other regional laws).
• Strategies for ensuring ethical data collection, usage, and protection.
• Managing data breaches and ensuring transparent reporting.
• The importance of data quality, integrity, and analytics for strategic insights.

Module 5: Digital Boardroom Effectiveness

• Enhancing board discussions on complex technology topics.
• Leveraging digital tools for efficient board communication and information sharing.
• Strategies for attracting and integrating digitally savvy directors.
• Fostering a culture of continuous learning and digital upskilling for the board.
• The role of technology committees and specialized expertise on the board.

Module 6: Ethical Implications of Digital Technologies

• Understanding the ethical challenges posed by AI, automation, and big data.
• The board's responsibility in ensuring responsible technology use.
• Addressing algorithmic bias, fairness, and accountability.
• Developing ethical guidelines for digital product development and deployment.
• Navigating the societal impact of digital transformation.

Module 7: Building a Future-Ready IT Governance Framework

• Integrating IT risk and opportunity into enterprise risk management (ERM).
• Developing comprehensive IT governance policies and procedures.
• Measuring the effectiveness of IT governance initiatives.
• Strategies for continuous adaptation to evolving digital landscapes.
• Creating a personalized action plan for enhancing IT governance and digital boardroom strategy.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training.