Learning & Development Program case study
Exploring British Railways
July 21st – August 19th, 2019
Overview:
In this business excursion, International Business School Suzhou (IBSS) asked The Global Exec. to craft an L&D Program for Beijing-based CRRC and its managers. CRRC is the world's largest supplier of rail transit equipment with innovative products and leading manufacturing technologies.
Challenge:
As CRRC grew, it faced a range of challenges. The main one was a lack of experience in the market topped with language/cultural differences, governance, risk, and compliance issues. These were all roadblocks that stunted the scaling of the business.
Solution:
The Global Exec. worked closely with IBSS on a solution that would boost inspiration, network growth, and help CRRS look for potential partnerships. We created a 30-day L&D Program in the United Kingdom that took the group to London, Derby, Liverpool, Manchester, Glasgow and Edinburgh.
The trip gave participants the chance to experience the British rail system first-hand and provided them with the experience to develop international management skills and leadership qualities to remedy the challenge pain points. Participants were exposed to culturally contrasting businesses within the industry, seeing British practices from a Chinese MNE’s perspective.
Impact:
Gained a full picture of the UK market: Encompassing six British cities, the trip gave the group a varied perspective of different topics that meant they could assess potential expansion to the UK market. Through hands-on experience outside of a conference room, they explored premises that illustrated the breadth of the market. From manufacturing at Acton Depot and the Materials Innovation Factory to the headquarters of Transport for London, Crossrail, Heathrow Express, Network Rail, ScotRail.
Opportunities to connect: Networking events in London, Manchester, and Glasgow co-organized by Young Rail Professionals, introduced trip participants to industry experts. While Chinese engineering and rail services are among the most advanced in the world, the trip was successful in exposing the traveling group to fresh approaches. An insightful contrast and rare chance for rail professionals to share industry knowledge, key challenges, solutions, and strategies.
Cultural immersion: One of the program’s main successes lay in the balance of corporate visits and exploring British culture. Learning how traditions influence everyday business norms, meant participants enhanced their cross-cultural awareness. Learning to shake hands before a meeting and queuing to buy transport tickets is something that improved students’ overall success in discussions while boosting the potential of future international opportunities.
“Our program was well planned and well executed from beginning to end. We had a great mix of company visits and cultural events and the participants gained so much that they could take back and use in their everyday life.”
— Douglas F. Shearer, Business Engagement Manager, International Business School Suzhou
