Knowledge-based competences: - Understanding the nature of management decisions - Evaluating strategical choices in a critical and well-reasoned manner, according to criteria oriented towards value creation. Skills: - Using at ease and understanding the major sources of business information. - Analyzing complex business problems both rigorously and critically - Communicating ideas in structured and appealing speeches and texts. Attitudes: - Initiative, leadership and enthusiasm - Creative proposals oriented towards problem-solving.

The subject covers the main concepts and analytic frameworks of strategic management. Students, after taking the subject, should understand how strategies could contribute to value creation and competitive advantage. The subject also studies the process of firm expansion, both in terms of new businesses and new markets. Part one: Introduction 1. Strategic management of the firm: strategy, objectives and value creation 2. Strategic Analysis Part two: The competitive level of strategy 3. Creating competitive advantages Part three: The corporate level of strategy: 4. Strategies of vertical integration: the make/buy decision 5. Diversification strategy 6. Internationalization of the firm 7. Corporate growth methods

- Theoretical classes will consist of lectures on the fundamental concepts. - Following each theoretical session, students must read the corresponding case study and apply the theoretical tools and knowledge acquired previously. During case study sessions, students will play an active role in analysing and resolving case studies involving real companies.