Director Open Programs (w/m/d)

WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management is a leading private business school in Germany, known for its excellence in management education and research. The WHU Executive Education department offers high-class continuing education programs for managers and executives. Our portfolio consists of Customized Programs for companies and Open Programs for individuals in the field of management (e.g., leadership, negotiations, finance, strategy).

As Director Open Programs (f/m/d), you will lead a motivated, international team located in Düsseldorf. You will be responsible for the strategic and financial development & growth of our Open Programs portfolio, the entire customer journey including marketing & admissions processes, and program delivery.

• Drive and develop WHU Executive Education Open Programs’ strategic and financial growth while assuring financial sustainability.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance the quality and reach of Open Programs and grow the Open Programs portfolio accordingly to the overarching business school’s strategy and vision.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance marketing & sales initiatives to drive Open Program’s financial success.
• Collaborate and manage key stakeholders, such as program faculty, industry experts, and customers to design and deliver innovative programs. 
• Represent WHU Executive Education Open Programs externally & internally.
• Lead and manage the Open Programs team while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and excellence. Foster collaboration with departments within WHU to ensure synergies.

• Advanced degree in business, management, marketing, or a related field.
• Extensive professional experience, ideally experience in higher education, executive education, or a similar field and experience in professional services product development, marketing/sales.
• Proven leadership experience. 
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and proven track record in representing towards different stakeholder groups.
• Agile working style and ability to thrive in a highly self-organized team environment.
• Excellent communication skills and proficiency in both German and English
• Willingness to reflect on the current status quo to improve existing processes, empower people, and to let the Open Programs department thrive in a competitive market environment.

• A diverse and international working environment
• An open-minded, supportive, and motivated team
• Opportunities to actively contribute to the school’s development
• Flat hierarchies and fast decision-making processes
• Attractive skill development and training offerings
• Flexible working time models, including home office option
• Exclusive company-sponsored social benefits
• Ecofriendly mobility offers (e.g., JobTicket, JobRad, e-mobility)
• Various fitness and health activities

We are looking forward to your application. The application deadline is 22.04.2025.

For questions please contact:

Professor Lutz Johanning
Associate Dean Executive Education and Business Relations
Email: [email protected]