Why don’t strong proposals always lead to strong decisions?

A proposal may be well-founded. The business case is solid, the analysis is thorough, and the recommendations are clear. Yet the final decision may still differ from what was expected.

That is because decision-making at the board level involves more than facts, analyses, and arguments. Interests, perspectives, interactions, and interpersonal dynamics often play an equally important role. Anyone who wants to influence strategic decision-making must therefore understand how decisions are made within and around a board.

In the Boardroom Dynamics and Decision Making module, you will gain insight into the human and organizational dynamics that shape board-level decision-making. You will learn how executives reach decisions, how boards interact with the wider organization, and the role you can play in that process.

You will also develop the skills to communicate complex topics clearly, concisely, and persuasively, both in writing and through conversations and presentations to decision-makers.

Who is this module for?

This module is designed for professionals who regularly work with executives, leadership teams, supervisory boards, or other decision-making bodies and want to increase their influence and effectiveness. Examples include:

• Managers and team leaders;
• Program managers;
• Advisors and consultants;
• Innovation and transformation professionals;
• Professionals who prepare proposals for executive teams or boards;
• Professionals who are themselves working in or around a board environment.

The module is relevant for anyone who wants to better understand how board-level decisions are made and how to operate more effectively in interactions with senior decision-makers.

Meet the faculty lead

Learn more about the module and meet faculty lead Désirée van Gorp in the video below. 

What are you going to do?

The module consists of three blocks of two consecutive days. Each block builds on the previous one and supports your development as a trusted advisor, sounding board, and influencer in board-level decision-making.

During the module, you will work on topics such as:

• Understanding boardroom dynamics and decision-making;
• Your role in the interaction between the board and the organization;
• Crafting clear and compelling written messages;
• Presenting ideas and proposals with confidence and impact;
• Personal positioning and influencing skills.

A key element of the module is writing a paper on a relevant challenge from your own professional practice. You will ultimately present this paper to an external board. In doing so, you will learn how to distill complex issues to their essence, position yourself effectively, and convince others of your proposal.

Interaction with fellow participants plays an important role throughout the module. The diversity of backgrounds, industries, and perspectives leads to valuable new insights.

What’s in it for you?

After completing the module, you will:

• Better understand how boards arrive at decisions;
• Recognize the dynamics within and around a board;
• Become a more effective conversation partner for executives and supervisory board members;
• Know how to present complex topics clearly and persuasively;
• Increase your influence on strategic decision-making;
• Further develop yourself as a leader, advisor, and sounding board;
• Be able to effectively present a strategic proposal to a board.

Who will teach you?

The faculty lead is prof. dr. Désirée M. van Gorp LL.M., Professor at Nyenrode Business Universiteit.

In addition, guest speakers from business, governance, and supervisory boards enrich the module with practical experience and real-world boardroom perspectives. Below is a selection of guest speakers from previous editions (subject to change):

• Lex Empress
• Juliette Coetzee
• Roger van Boxtel
• Bas Rookhuijzen
• Georgio Mosis
• Stijn Steendijk
• Lodewijk Lockefeer

Take as standalone module or stack toward your MBA

Want to learn more?

What are the admission requirements?

To participate in this module, you must meet the following requirements:

• A minimum of five years of professional experience in a strategic, leadership, entrepreneurial, or other influential role;
• A completed Bachelor’s degree (HBO or university level), or a demonstrable equivalent level of capability;
• Proficiency in reading and listening in English.

Apply now

Interested in the Boardroom Dynamics and Decision Making module? Register today. After submitting your application, you will receive information by email about the next steps required to finalize your enrollment.

Introduction Session

Is this your first module? If so, you will be invited to the Introduction Session for new participants, which will take place on March 1, 2027, from 3:00 PM to 6:15 PM (excluding dinner).

The Academic Writing workshop will be held on April 14, 2027, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

What is the investment?

The investment for this module is €6,950 (VAT exempt). This fee includes all course materials, access to Nyenrode's student facilities, digital learning resources, and catering during class days.

Accommodation on the Nyenrode estate is not included and can be booked separately if desired.