Executive Leadership Lab
Driving Strategic Performance
Accelerate your organization’s leadership performance through this dynamic and immersive experience created by Furman University’s Center for Innovative Leadership and the BMW Performance Driving Schools. Designed to fuse the excitement of high-performance driving with the principles of strategic leadership, this event provides an extraordinary hands-on environment for enhancing strategic alignment, building collaboration skills and reenergizing organizational commitment.
“The Furman Innovation Lab and BMW Performance Driving Schools
brought strategy to life
in a way that a traditional leadership workshop simply cannot.”
– Jacob Roxon, Director of AI Strategy, Current Lighting
Leadership in Motion
Pro Driving Instruction
Our professional driving instructors have years of racing experience and are with you every step of the way, offering feedback and encouragement via radio. They’ll always perform the initial exercises with you, demonstrating everything from proper seating positions to the best way through a corner.
Reach Your Own Limits
We practice challenge by choice, so you’re always at a level of performance that you feel comfortable with. Our instructors provide instant and positive reinforcement while encouraging each driver to have a little fun. Okay, maybe more than a little.
Bond Over Boost
Slalom
How fast can you react to changes within your organization, be it deadlines, staff or budgets? The answer is slalom – instead of outright speed, the Slalom Course focuses on precision and vehicle control. Cones mark off direction and turn-in points, so keep your eyes up and out as far ahead as you can.
Wet Skid Pad
Look where you want to go – both behind the wheel and as you lead your team through complexities. Our wet skid pad simulates ice and hydroplaning on water, giving you a real-world opportunity to practice understeer and oversteer.
Blind Autocross
Put trust and communication to the test. A blindfolded driver navigates our autocross course at a walking pace guided by their passenger’s verbal directions. This trust exercise builds clear communication, active listening and confidence in your team's ability abilities to drive transformation.
Learn More About the Leadership Program
Executive Leadership Lab Events at a Glance
What is Driving Strategic Performance?
Driving Strategic Performance is a one-day Executive Leadership Lab created by Furman University’s Center for Innovative Leadership and BMW Performance Driving Schools. Leaders alternate between high-performance driving on the track and facilitated strategy sessions, exploring how focus, control and decision-making behind the wheel translate to leading an organization.
Who is it for?
Driving Strategic Performance is for senior-level leaders and executive teams looking to strengthen strategic thinking, decision-making and organizational performance.
How many people can participate?
Each Driving Strategic Performance cohort is capped at 16 participants.
Where and when is it held?
Driving Strategic Performance is held at BMW Performance Driving Schools, located at 1155 SC-101, Greer, South Carolina. The program runs from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with participants asked to arrive by 7:45 a.m.
What is included?
Driving Strategic Performance includes:
- Three Driving Experiences in BMWs on the track, led by BMW instructors
- Facilitated sessions on strategic leadership, vision-setting and navigating change
- A learning journal to capture insights and develop an action plan
Breakfast and lunch
How should I prepare for the program?
Come with a leadership challenge in mind—a real strategic issue you’re facing in your organization. You’ll work on this challenge during the afternoon sessions. No written prework is required.
Are there any forms I need to complete before the program?
Yes. You’ll need to complete BMW registration, a BMW driving waiver and a Furman Media Release. Links will be sent to each participant once your organization books its date. The driving waiver must be completed before you arrive. If your work network blocks access to the waiver site, try completing it on your phone or a personal device.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable business casual attire suitable for driving. Closed-toe shoes are required.
Do I need track experience?
No prior track experience is required. BMW instructors lead every exercise, beginning with a safety and driving overview.
What vehicles are used at BMW Performance Driving Schools?
We always have the most recent model-year BMWs on hand, including X, M and i vehicles.
Who do I contact with questions?
Please fill out the form and our representative will connect with you directly to answer questions.
