iF Design Launches Global Academy to Train the Next Generation of Strategic Design Leaders

iF Design Launches Global Academy to Train the Next Generation of Strategic Design Leaders

(IN BRIEF) iF Design has unveiled the iF DESIGN ACADEMY, a new educational arm designed to advance the skills of experienced design professionals. Beginning in September, five courses will focus on strategic business insight, personal leadership development, and future‑oriented thinking. Led by internationally recognized experts, the Academy delivers interactive learning via live‑online modules, with face‑to‑face formats planned for the following year. Early courses cover core leadership topics, while specialized programs on AI and sustainability in design are slated for 2026. Detailed information and enrollment options are available at ifdesign‑academy.com.

(PRESS RELEASE) HANNOVER, 17-Jul-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Building on more than seven decades of design excellence, iF Design proudly introduces the iF DESIGN ACADEMY as the latest addition to its portfolio of offerings. Kicking off this September, the Academy presents five intensive courses in Design Leadership, tailored for seasoned professionals eager to elevate their strategic, entrepreneurial, and interpersonal capabilities—empowering them to guide design initiatives with impact, integrity, and sustainability.

Renowned globally for the iF DESIGN AWARD, one of the most coveted honors in the design world, iF Design has long fostered visibility and innovation within the creative community. “Establishing the iF DESIGN ACADEMY is a natural evolution for our brand,” explains Uwe Cremering, CEO of iF Design. “This initiative enriches our global platform with targeted learning experiences crafted specifically for tomorrow’s design leaders. Here, participants will connect, collaborate, and cultivate fresh insights.”

The Academy’s curriculum centers on three pillars of expertise:

• Business Understanding: Cultivating economic acumen and strategic decision‑making in design contexts
• Personal Growth: Enhancing emotional intelligence, leadership presence, and self‑development
• Future Literacy: Building competence in navigating global change and emerging trends

Participants will benefit from a dynamic blend of in‑depth content, international viewpoints, and access to a worldwide network of peers. Courses are delivered by leading figures from design, academia, and industry through interactive, application‑focused formats.

Course Lineup:

• Design Leadership Studio 01: For emerging design managers
• Design Leadership Studio 02: For established design executives
• Leading Beyond Design
• Expanding Organizational Influence
• Elevating Your Design Team

Looking ahead, the Academy plans to introduce specialist programs such as “Leading AI Strategy in Design” and “Leading Sustainable Design” in 2026.

All offerings launch as live, online sessions in English (with subtitles), with in‑person workshops set to follow next year. For detailed course descriptions and registration, please visit ifdesign‑academy.com.

Media Contact:

Joana Harmening
Public Relations
iF International Forum Design GmbH
Bahnhofstrasse 8, 30159 Hannover
Phone: +49.511.54224-204
joana.harmening@ifdesign.com

SOURCE: iF Design