Risk Management in a time of crisis

11th May 2021

Sarah Haffenden

If COVID-19 taught us anything, it is that there are some risks that businesses can not completely plan for. There are a number of resources identifying the different kinds of business risks[1] to take into consideration, however, ‘pandemic risk’ is not a common feature. The COVID-19 pandemic has had disastrous effects on many businesses that have had to implement a number of cost reduction measures to survive. Unfortunately, some businesses have not had the means to endure the grueling lockdown restrictions.

We recently reviewed our Supply Chain Management programme and redeveloped it to cover this increasingly important area. The focus has been shifted to business risk within the supply chain from a global perspective. It may be difficult to predict the exact risks that could affect businesses but there are some procedures that if put into place and effectively managed, could minimize the outcomes of risks that may occur.

After attending the Global Supply Chain Management Programme you will learn to pick up potential business disruptions that could affect your organisation and better understand your organisation’s vulnerabilities. You will also gain risk management expertise in resilience planning, prevention, crisis management and recovery. You will be able to implement effective communication and messaging frameworks when your organisation’s reputation is on the line; and develop the expertise in cultivating a resilient, high-performing organisation in times of crisis. On returning to your organisation, you will be able to carry out a detailed company risk assessment and develop mitigation plans to efficiently managing potential risks.

The structure has also been adjusted to fit within the busy schedules of leaders of today. Instead of three consecutive full day sessions, the programme will be presented over six weeks and will consist of three hours live online facilitation per week. The content will build up across the weeks and will also allow time for further understanding. There will also be additional resources made available on a Learner Management System that can be accessed by registered students throughout the programme. These resources include additional pre-recorded sessions, readings, case studies and current research materials.

The programme is not only beneficial to supply chain management specialists but is also valuable for leaders in any industry responsible for decisions impacting their organisation. It includes assignments that will be graded, allowing understanding and the ability to apply learnings into real-life case studies.

Invest in the future of your organisation by enrolling on this innovative programme. For the June intake, you may also wish to take advantage of our mid-year sales promotion. Please click here for more details.


For more information on this programme, please click here or contact Faith Ndlovu on email: Ndlovuz1@ukzn.ac.za or telephone: +27 31 260 1234.


[1] https://www.americanexpress.com/en-us/business/trends-and-insights/articles/7-business-risks-every-business-should-plan-for/