CMP Course Catalogue - Course Outlines

Business Planning Sessions - "Stepstone", "Touchstone", and "Capstone"

Core Educational Area: Business Planning Framework
Course type: Skill Building
Accredited Educational Partner: Pursuit Inc.
Delivery Format: Classroom style, teleconference calls, one-on-one coaching, capstone evaluation
Time Required: 8-12 hours plus individual planning time
Cost: $750 x 2 segments = $1,500 total
CMP Credit: 2.0
CE Credit: TBA
Languages: English, French (TBA)

COURSE OVERVIEW:
This customized framework translates CMP designation learnings into tangible performance improvement. As each student progresses through the CMP designation, this framework provides valuable guidance for generating a dynamic business plan based upon the following design:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With the core principles of practical, applicable and impactful in mind, the CMP Business Planning Framework provides a structure for applying and integrating key points of learning throughout the course of the CMP designation. In effect, the benefit of this unique component is delivered as a “stepstone” at the beginning, a “touchstone” at key points of progression, and a “capstone” at the end of the CMP designation experience.

“STEPSTONE” KICK-OFF SESSION:
This session is each student’s first ‘live’ experience of the CMP designation program. It is used to introduce the Business Planning Framework and to jump-start the conversion of learning into direct application. Upon completion of this session, each student will be granted one half credit (of two credits total) relating to the Business Planning component of the CMP designation.

“TOUCHSTONE” COACHING SESSIONS:
Upon completion of each category of learning within the CMP curriculum, students will be directed to recap their learnings with an experienced business development consultant. This individual will help students translate key takeaways from each area of the curriculum into concrete business strategies and corresponding action items. Using the CMP Business Planning Framework as a guide, this coaching/consultation process provides: (i.) greater assurance that key learnings derived from the curriculum will be translated into meaningful performance improvement; and (ii.) direct guidance for students throughout their experience of the CMP designation. Upon completion of all four Coaching Sessions (one for each element of the Core Curriculum) students will be granted an additional half credit (of two credits total) relating to the Business Planning component of the CMP designation.

“CAPSTONE” EVALUATION & FEEDBACK SESSION:
As a final step prior to award of the CMP designation, each student will use the Business Planning Framework to present a go-forward strategy and action plan. This plan will be submitted (on a strictly confidential basis) to a panel of experts drawn from the financial services industry, along with representatives from the Sobey School of Business and the Centre for Leadership Excellence at Saint Mary’s University in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Upon completion of the final evaluation and feedback, students will be granted one full credit (of two credits total) relating to the Business Planning component of the CMP designation. Having completed this final step in the Program, students will be awarded their CMP designation.

Questions about the Business Planning Sessions process? Please contact GAMA for assistance.