November, 2007. Shanghai campus - As part of its efforts to encourage more Chinese women to become global leaders, CEIBS will offer a Female Leadership Program from December 3 to 5 at the Shanghai campus. The course, which examines the strategies of successful business women and analyzes the obstacles women face as they pursue career development, aims to arm Chinese business women with the skills and strategies they need to meet their professional goals.

Under the guidance of program director Professor Jean Lee, the course will help female managers and executives hone their global leadership skills. Male executives wishing to better understand gender differences in the workplace and how to create synergies from these differences are also encouraged to participate. Topics to be discussed include: Journey to Growth, Breaking Through the Glass Ceiling, Professional Renaissance, Psychology of Gender, and Women in Today's World.

In recent years, Chinese businesswomen have begun playing an increasingly important role on the global stage. Among them is Gree Electronics President Dong Mingzhu (CEIBS 20006 CEO Program alumni) who was ranked among Forbes "2007 Most Powerful Women" in September 2007 and among Fortune's "50 Most Powerful Women in Business" last month.

The Forbes ranking was based on candidates' personal influence, influence on the economy, and media visibility. Fortune focused on the global market presence of candidates' organizations or divisions, their power within their organizations, career development, as well as cultural and societal influence. Under Dong' s leadership, Gree's sales increased by 30% to almost US$3 billion last year as compared to the figures for 2005, a feat made even more remarkable because it was accomplished in the male dominated, highly competitive home appliance industry.

Dong is just one of six brilliant Chinese women included on the Forbes and Fortune lists this year; but ranked Chinese women are still significantly less than their European and American counterparts.

To participate in the 2007 Female Leadership Program, contact CEIBS Executive Education Department or fill out an application form on the school's website www.ceibs.edu.