Curriculum
Four modules and a capstone project, over six months, January to June 2027, delivered across Switzerland, China and Singapore. Each module is led by a core professor and brings in a range of guest speakers, closer to a seminar than a classic course.
Our learning approach
- Thought-provoking, real-time questions grounded in business reality
- Highly interactive, discussion-driven sessions that leverage peer insight
- Continuous engagement through purposeful and challenging dialogue
- A strong emphasis on practical application and problem-solving
We foster a dynamic learning environment that challenges perspectives, sharpens thinking and drives insight beyond the textbook.
Co-taught: a dual-instructor model
Academic foundations are delivered by a professor, complemented by practical insights from a CFO.
Module 1
Global CFO: Core
Covers the essential foundations of the global CFO role, with reference to the outcome of the Future Directions in Finance (FDF) survey.
- Global Enterprise: Growth Strategy and Changing Role of CFOs
- Digital Transformation & AI Application
- International Accounting for Global Corporations
- Cross-border Partnership and Investment
- International Corporate Finance: Global Assets and Risk Management
Module 2
Global CFO: Leadership
Focuses on leadership and soft skills, including effective communication, conference calls and investor relations.
- CFO Leadership Through Uncertainty & Risk
- Innovation & Value Creation Leadership
- Strategic Partnerships and Corporate Growth
- Leading Organisational Culture & Change
- Strategic Communication & Social Media for CFOs
Module 3
Global CFO: AI
Explores the future of the CFO function and the capabilities needed for the AI era and the convergence of high-tech and innovation sectors.
- AI Fundamentals
- Data-Driven Decision Making
- FinTech Trends & Impacts
- Future Finance in Startups & Sustainability
Module 4
Global CFO: Cross-Border
Addresses the complexities of cross-border partnerships and investments.
- Cross-Border Mergers & Acquisitions
- European/Asian Market Access & Regulation
- Global Corporate Culture and Team Management
- Growth Strategy Across the Globe
- Cross-Border Investment & Partnership
Capstone project
Designing the Global CFO: Strategic Finance Transformation in a Global, AI-Driven and Sustainable Economy
Participants develop a Global CFO Strategic Playbook that consolidates their learning and integrates risk analytics, AI transformation, capital strategy, ESG and M&A decision-making into one framework. The outcome is an actionable, decision-oriented group playbook with analytical models, strategic frameworks and implementation roadmaps, presented and peer-reviewed in St.Gallen.
- Integration of key learnings
- Risk, AI, capital strategy, ESG and M&A
- Practical frameworks and implementation roadmaps
- Group presentation and peer review in St.Gallen
Crediting to other Executive Education programmes at the University of St.Gallen is examined case by case.
Global cross-border and interdisciplinary programme
In an increasingly interconnected world, finance leaders must operate beyond traditional boundaries: across geographical borders, regulations and disciplines. This programme is designed to equip executives with the capabilities required to navigate global complexity while integrating insights from multiple domains. It fosters a holistic perspective where finance is no longer isolated, but deeply connected to technology, strategy and sustainability.
- Develop cross-border expertise to navigate diverse regulatory frameworks, international markets and global financial risks
- Gain interdisciplinary insights at the intersection of finance, technology, data and sustainability
- Strengthen the ability to collaborate across functions and align finance with broader business strategy
- Learn from international case studies and global peers to enhance adaptability and resilience
- Build a global mindset to lead effectively in multicultural and cross-border environments
By combining global exposure with interdisciplinary learning, the programme prepares finance leaders to make informed decisions, drive innovation and create value in a complex, rapidly evolving landscape.
E-learning and AI innovation
AI-enabled e-learning brings a new era of executive education: more flexible, more interactive and globally connected. Participants can join live international programmes and stay up to date with the latest insights and emerging trends. AI-driven tools help overcome language barriers and enhance engagement through new media and interactive teaching solutions. With innovative digital platforms, learning becomes more dynamic, personalised and impactful.
A modern, flexible learning experience designed for time-constrained executives, combining digital convenience with the power of AI to maximise impact:
- Personalised learning journeys powered by AI, aligned with individual goals and skill gaps
- Interactive simulations and real-world scenarios to strengthen strategic decision-making
- Hybrid and on-demand formats for anytime, anywhere access
- AI-driven tools to enhance risk analysis, forecasting and financial planning
- Real-time AI translation and language support to enable seamless global collaboration and learning
- Continuous, digital-first learning to support ongoing upskilling in a fast-changing environment
Efficient, adaptive and future-focused: built for today’s finance leaders.