Selection process

Phase 1: Enrolment

The first step in the process requires each student to complete and submit an online application which will be reviewed by Odgers Berndtson’s team of executive search experts.

The application will include:

• Your contact information
  
  
• Your business school name and course
  
  
• A resume summarising your work experience, extra-curricular activities, community involvement or charity work, and awards
  
  
• A written essay highlighting your thoughts on leadership and career goals

Evaluation Criteria for Phase 1:

A written essay highlighting your thoughts on leadership and your career goals.

Approximate Time Commitment: 30 minutes

Phase 2: Phone Interviews

Post the online assessment, a selection of students will be contacted to participate in a short telephone interview with one of Odgers Berndtson’s consultants.

Evaluation Criteria for Phase 2:

Applicants will be evaluated on the quality of answers to the interview questions and their ability to articulate themselves over the phone.

Approximate Time Commitment: 10 Minutes

Phase 3: Assessment workshop

Students selected from the applications stage will then be invited to a three-hour evaluation session in Cape Town and Johannesburg. These semi-finalists will participate in individual and group exercises, including speed interviewing and presenting on various topics. The students will have an opportunity to meet and network with some of Odgers Berndtson’s Consultants and Partners.

Evaluation Criteria for Phase 3:

Semi-finalists will be assessed on how they think on their feet, work in a group situation and their overall fit with our CEOs through activities like case studies, presentations and in-person interviews.

Time Commitment: 3 hours

Phase 4: On-line Leadership Assessment

Selected students from the interviews/evaluation phase will be asked to complete an online assessment to create a profile of their competencies and leadership potential. This will be reviewed by Odgers Berndtson consultants.

Evaluation Criteria for Phase 4:

Applicants will be assessed on the strengths and competencies that are reflective of a confident and ambitious individual who handles stress effectively, is politically astute, dependable, and values learning and developing new skills.

Approximate Time Commitment: 30 minutes

Phase 5: CEOx1Day Event

Each finalist will spend a full day shadowing a CEO learning about their background, career path, and how they create value in their organisation. Finalists will have an opportunity to spend one-on-one time with the CEO, attend certain meetings with their leadership team and tour the company’s facilities. Each CEOx1Day event will include elements unique to the host company that ensure it is a meaningful and memorable experience for both the student and CEO.

Timing for Phase 5:  August/September/October

Time Commitment: 1 Day