Ravensbourne celebrates new CMI accreditations at launch event
Ravensbourne University London welcomed industry leaders, students and partners to campus on Thursday 12 February for an insightful and engaging morning of discussion and professional networking. The event centred around a key theme of leadership and trends within the working world for young people and the evolving world of work.
Chaired by our Vice Chancellor Jon Kingsbury, the panel brought together four influential voices shaping the future of leadership and innovation: Ann Francke OBE, CEO of the Chartered Management Institute; Lisa Opie, Chair of the Board of Governors; Les Binet, Visiting Professor at Ravensbourne; and Annie Brown, leadership specialist at Brand Finance.
Together, they explored how cross‑disciplinary thinking, creativity and professional management skills are becoming essential foundations for tomorrow’s leaders.
Vice Chancellor Jon Kingsbury opened the morning session sharing exciting outcomes of what this partnership means – one being that it provides a pathway for students to work towards Chartered Manager status, the highest professional recognition in the field of management.
Karl Knox quote
This morning’s event captured exactly what makes Ravensbourne such an energising place to study and collaborate. Through our partnership with the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), these students are not only gaining a postgraduate master’s qualification, but also working towards a Level 7 Award in Strategic Management and Leadership. This dual‑award pathway strengthens their leadership capability and gives them a competitive edge as they step into an increasingly fluid and fast‑moving professional landscape. ”
Lisa Opie then opened the panel conversation by reflecting on the importance of embracing different perspectives. Citing Rebel Ideas as a favourite book, she noted how strongly it “lands the message that listening to the views of others - especially those unlike your own - is essential.” She emphasised that collaboration across disciplines is no longer optional but fundamental to innovation.
Les Binet echoed this sentiment, highlighting the creative dimension present in every job role. Drawing on his career in advertising, he reminded the audience that creativity is “tremendously powerful,” and that many people underestimate how art and design can shape emotion - and, ultimately, financial value. “People need permission to have stupid ideas,” he added, arguing that experimentation is a vital part of progress.
Anne Francke spoke about the importance of humility and emotional intelligence in modern leadership:
Ann Francke quote
It’s ok for leaders to say ‘I don’t know’. It shows self‑awareness. I like to follow the “platinum rule” - the idea that leaders should go beyond treating others as they themselves would like to be treated, and instead focus on listening deeply and responding with empathy. ”
The discussion also touched on wider trends shaping the workforce. With more than 40% of organisations not investing in training, the panel highlighted the urgent need for continuous development. They also noted that Gen Z professionals are likely to move through multiple roles and sectors over their careers, making adaptable, cross‑disciplinary skills more important than ever.
The event offered students, staff and industry guests a rare opportunity to hear directly from leaders at the forefront of creative, technological and business transformation. Their message was clear: the future belongs to those who can collaborate across boundaries, embrace creativity, and lead with empathy and accountability.