IIM Calcutta invites applications for 27th Senior Management Programme

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Calcutta has invited applications for admission to the 27th batch of its Senior Management Programme (SMP), a one-year executive education programme designed for experienced professionals seeking to take on larger strategic leadership responsibilities. The programme will commence on October 11, 2026.

To be eligible, applicants must hold a bachelor's or master's degree from a recognised institution approved by the University Grants Commission (UGC), All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), Association of Indian Universities (AIU) or Distance Education Bureau (DEB), with at least 50% aggregate marks in the qualifying degree.

This 12-month programme is open to professionals with a minimum of 10 years of work experience and aims to help participants transition from functional leadership roles to enterprise-wide decision-making positions. The programme includes two five-day campus immersion modules at IIM Calcutta and is delivered through an interactive direct-to-device learning platform.

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According to IIM Calcutta, the programme focuses on strengthening analytical capabilities, helping participants navigate complex business environments, and developing broader perspectives for strategic decision-making. The curriculum covers areas such as governance, market economies, legal frameworks, marketing excellence, human resources, corporate finance, financial markets, competition, strategy, and leadership.

Speaking on the launch of the programme, Vivek Rajvanshi, Professor of Finance and Control, IIM Calcutta, and Saptarshi Purkayastha, Professor of Strategic Management, IIM Calcutta, said: “Senior leadership today demands the ability to read change early, make considered choices, and mobilise organisations with clarity. Through SMP, IIM Calcutta offers experienced professionals a rigorous learning environment that integrates strategy, finance, markets, governance, and digital transformation, helping them move from functional proficiency to enterprise-level leadership with greater confidence.”

The institute said the programme has been designed at a time when organisations are increasingly looking for agile and technology-aware leaders. Citing Deloitte’s 2026 Global Human Capital Trends survey, IIM Calcutta noted that seven in ten business leaders view speed and agility as their primary competitive strategy over the next three years. It also referred to industry insights highlighting the growing importance of skills such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, blockchain, and digital marketing.

Programme targets senior professionals and entrepreneurs

The programme is targeted at senior managers, general managers, directors, vice presidents, CXOs, business unit heads, team leaders, project managers, and entrepreneurs. Participants will also undertake a capstone project involving business simulation exercises and integrated learning applications to address organisational challenges.

According to the institute, previous SMP cohorts have attracted professionals from sectors including information technology, finance, healthcare, banking, financial services and insurance (BFSI), supply chain, and allied industries. Around 70% of participants in earlier batches had more than 15 years of work experience, while the remaining 30% had between 10 and 15 years of experience.

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The programme will use multiple teaching methods, including case discussions, simulations, gamified learning, role-plays, and expert-led lectures. The two campus immersion sessions will provide opportunities for peer learning, networking, and direct interaction with faculty members.

Participants who complete the programme will receive IIM Calcutta Executive Education Alumni status and gain access to the institute's alumni network of more than 35,000 professionals, along with various learning and networking opportunities, the institute said.