A Copenhagen Business School course on Coursera by Robert Austin that takes an unusual, story-led approach: it follows a fictional leader, Jim Barton, through the real challenges modern leaders face. Instead of abstract theory, you work through his dilemmas and decisions. Engaging and practical — good for anyone who prefers learning leadership through a narrative.
Good for: Learning leadership through a realistic, story-driven case.
Less suitable if: You prefer structured frameworks or academic leadership theory.
Leadership in 21st Century Organizations takes an unusual, story-led approach. From Copenhagen Business School and Robert Austin, it follows a fictional leader, Jim Barton, through the challenges modern leaders actually face — executing strategy, inspiring people, governing well, managing talent, and staying ethical under pressure. It's based on the book 'Harder Than I Thought.'
What you'll learn
Navigate the real dilemmas of modern leadership
Execute strategy while leading people
Inspire and align a team
Apply effective governance
Lead ethically under pressure
Lead through crisis and change
This course includes
Yes
Certificate
Yes
Mobile access
English
Language
What it costs
You can audit the course free on Coursera. A certificate needs a Coursera subscription (about $49/month) or Coursera Plus, with financial aid available.
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A Copenhagen Business School certificate on Coursera is a credible learning record. It is a course certificate rather than a professional qualification or degree.
Last updated
Instructor
RA
Robert Austin
Coursera instructor
Robert Austin is a professor at Copenhagen Business School and co-author of 'Harder Than I Thought,' the book the course is based on. His narrative-driven teaching makes abstract leadership challenges concrete through a single unfolding story.
The course follows a fictional leader, Jim Barton, through realistic challenges, so you learn by working through his dilemmas rather than abstract theory.
Yes, you can audit it free; the certificate needs a Coursera subscription or Coursera Plus.
It suits new and aspiring leaders best; experienced senior leaders may find it introductory.
No — it is deliberately narrative and practical rather than framework-driven.