Manx Executive Challenge
Doolane ny Reiree Manninagh
Frequently asked questions
Q What is the Manx Executive Challenge?
A It is a personal development opportunity for young managers resident in the Isle of Man. After an initial selection process the Participants are formed into teams and each team draws a Challenge. Historically the challenges have been questions of real economic significance to the Isle of Man. Each team prepares a report covering their research; their findings and recommendations; and makes a presentation. The reports and presentations are independently judged.
Q Who organises the Challenge?
A The Isle of Man Branch of the Chartered Management Institute runs the Challenge. The Challenge has its own organising Committee who are predominantly members of the Institute and past Challenge participants [Click here to Meet the Committee]
Q Who are the judges?
A The organising committee appoint the judges. The judges are all people with significant management and business experience. In 2006 the judging panel was chaired by Professor Hugh Davidson and comprised Chris Hall, Managing Director of Manx Telecom; Jon McGowan, Managing Director of MAC Financial; and Trudi Williamson, previously Managing Director of Isle of Man Newspapers.
Q What is the role of the judges?
A It is twofold. The judges award the prestigious Manx Executive Challenge Trophy to the team which in their opinion produces the best combination of report and presentation in accordance with the judging criteria. As an important element of the Challenge is the learning experience the judges also provide a private and independent feedback session to each team and outline learning points.
Q Do I need to be a graduate to take part?
A Absolutely not, we accept applications from people from a wide range of educational backgrounds.
Q How time consuming may the Challenge be?
A Good question. The time that you spend is entirely a matter for you and your team. The time taken by some teams is quite considerable and it a product of competitive spirit; the will to excel; and peer pressure. We recommend that the team prepares a plan of its time allocation early in the process in order to minimise the likelihood of surprises later. You should consider your personal circumstances carefully; for example, if you are studying for exams it is unlikely that you should embark on the Challenge at the same time. Also you will need the support and understanding of your partner, so please discuss it with them first.
Q What will I gain?
A The Challenge gives you an opportunity to gain new skills and competencies; it allows you to work and network with people from different sectors of the economy; and importantly it provides a framework in which you can explore your limits outside of the scrutiny of your workplace. Many participants tell us that as well as gaining experience of gathering and analysing data; writing reports; making presentations; and managing projects; they also gain self confidence and self esteem. Previous participants have also told us that they have made new friends and that the Challenge was fun
Q What support and help does each team receive?
A At the start of the Challenge there is a residential induction session; it lasts from lunchtime on Friday until lunchtime on Saturday. You are given a lot of useful information and familiarised with the rules and objectives of the Challenge. On the Friday evening you will be introduced to your team mentor. Your mentor will be in contact with you throughout the Challenge to advise and assist, but not to give you answers or tell you what to do. The essence of the Challenge is to facilitate the team in producing its own solutions.
Q What does it cost?
A There is a fee of £470 (£400 plus VAT) which includes participation in the induction weekend, which is residential; one year’s membership of the Chartered Management Institute; relevant publications for your team; attendance at the launch; attendance at the final; and a private feedback session with the judges.
Q If I drop out will I get my fee back?
A If you are unable to attend the induction session for a good reason and you give the organising committee as much notice as you reasonably can we may return your fee at our discretion. After the induction session it is not possible to return any fees.
Q So is someone making a profit?
A No. The Challenge operates within a tight budget. In addition to the fees raised from Participants there is sponsorship from private and public sector organisations, and funding from the Chartered Management Institute. The Institute is a registered charity.
Q Is there an age limit?
A Not at all. We would normally expect you to be in your 20s or 30s, but if you are older; perhaps you are changed career, that will not prevent you from taking part.
Q I’m interested. What do I do next?
A Please get in touch and let us know that you are interested. The next Challenge is scheduled to run from September 2007 until May 2008 and the organising committee will consider applications during summer 2007.