Abu Dhabi University and Thunderbird School of Management in Arizona sign MoU

The Institute for Enterprise Development at Abu Dhabi University and "Thunderbird, the Garvin School of International Management" signed a Memorandum of Understanding that will establish a framework for collaboration between both institutes in the field of executive education, enterprise development and organizational support.

Drawing on the reputation and the combined local and global expertise of both organizations, IED is catering for the needs of key decision-makers wishing to expand their thinking, share experience and create action plans that will deliver real benefits to the business and improve global competitiveness. These high-quality courses designed specially for this region will start at the end of 2006, and will include two programs on Global Leadership and Management Development in the Oil and Gas Industry.

Founded in 1946, Thunderbird has established a name synonymous with Global Leadership in Business Education. It has continuously topped ranks among the world's premium business schools, and has committed itself to educating and developing leaders of multinational enterprises.

"IED's mission is to create new knowledge and support in the region for those working hard to sustain the economic development of the nation. By working with Thunderbird, we are attempting to build a lasting legacy and professional support platform that will transform and improve the performance of organizations across all sectors in the UAE and indeed the GCC,"

said Dr Gene Crozier, Director of the Institute for Enterprise Development at Abu Dhabi University.

Rory Simpson, Vice President and Managing Director of Thunderbird Europe, Middle East & Africa said: "This is a groundbreaking moment. ADU and Thunderbird coming together signals the beginning of a powerful alliance. The prestige of these two institutions combined will offer executives and corporations alike a unique and second to none corporate learning experience."

"ADU has developed a real presence in the region. Thunderbird is ranked by the media globally as the number one Business School for international management. By bringing these institutions together we offer a truly elite product with unquestionable references, local understanding and global vision, prestige and experience," he added.