CMI Level 7 Extended Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice
Why Choose Us
Take your leadership to the next level with the CMI Level 7 Extended Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice. This advanced qualification is designed for senior leaders and executives who want to strengthen their strategic insight, lead with confidence, and deliver meaningful organisational impact. You’ll learn how to turn strategy into action, drive transformation, and shape the long-term success of your organisation.
What’s included
In your CMI Level 7 Extended Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice Course
This internationally recognised CMI Level 7 Extended Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership covers units that reflect the complex responsibilities of Senior Managers and C-Level Executives, including CEOs and Directors. Receive expert guidance and support throughout your learning journey while deepening your strategic thinking, leadership excellence, and decision-making skills to lead organisational success at the highest level.
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Handpick Your Units
ITonlinelearning offers all the Level 7 study units from the CMI – so you have the widest selection available to tailor a study programme that best suits you and your career!
To achieve the Level 7 Extended Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice, learners must choose a combination of modules below to a minimum or 640 TUT (Total Unit Time) hours and 64 credits, this must be made up of a minimum of 420 TUT hours and 42 credits from Group A only and 220 TUT hours and 22 credits from either Group A or Group B.
Group A
The aim of this unit is to equip leaders with an in-depth understanding of strategic leadership within an organisational context. Leaders will explore the complexities of the role and the theoretical perspectives, approaches, behaviours and skills which can enhance their professional practice. The unit focuses on the leader’s ability to respond creatively to complex organisational challenges and understand how to set and deliver sustainable strategic goals.
The aim of this unit is for leaders to develop an in-depth understanding of how to effectively lead and develop people. They will explore the influence and impact of leadership theories, culture, wellbeing, development and design, policy and strategy that can be used creatively within the leadership role. Ultimately, leaders will have the opportunity to propose a leadership and development strategy. The aim of which values people whilst optimising an organisation’s performance.
The aim of the unit is for leaders to understand collaborative and partnership arrangements. Leaders will critically assess the scope and value of these, as well as evaluating the impact of organisational and legal frameworks on how these arrangements are delivered. The unit culminates in the requirement for the leader to present a rationale for collaboration or partnerships to further an organisation’s success.
The aim of this unit is to enable leaders to know how to develop and influence an organisation’s strategic direction through the development of a meaningful strategy. To support this outcome, leaders will critique the factors which drive the development of organisational strategy and appraise approaches to successfully develop strategy. The unit culminates in leaders developing an organisational strategy to achieve a business goal. To complement this activity, leaders will propose an approach to implement and monitor the strategy developed to ensure its sustained success
The aim of this unit is for leaders to understand the scope, context and complexity of leading strategic change. Leaders will understand how the application of analytical techniques, theories and models of change, and creative problem-solving can be used to equip them to lead strategic change with confidence. The unit gives leaders the opportunity to develop a proposal to lead a strategic change.
The aim of this unit is to provide leaders with an understanding of the scope, complexity and role of Finance within an organisational context. Leaders will know how to critically assess methods for analysing financial data and information required to make strategic decisions. Ultimately, the aim of this unit is to equip leaders to be more confident in their understanding of the Finance function.
The aim of this unit is to enable leaders to understand the relationship between organisational design and development and the achievement of strategic objectives. Leaders will understand the impact of current and emerging factors which influence the need for agile and adaptive organisations. On successful completion of this unit, leaders will be able to develop a proposal for sustainable organisational design and development to respond to current and emerging needs.
The aim of this unit is for leaders to develop an in-depth understanding of strategic risk management. Leaders will critically appraise strategic risk within an organisational context. They will assess strategies for risk management and the leadership skills to lead risk initiatives successfully. Ultimately, leaders will be given the opportunity to develop a framework to deliver a risk strategy in an organisational context.
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The aims of this unit are for leaders to see strategic management of data and information as an opportunity rather than a challenge. Leaders will understand the strategic value and use of data and information and will critique strategies for its effective management. The unit culminates in the opportunity to develop a strategy to improve the use of data and information in a strategic organisational context..
The aim of this unit is to enable leaders to understand the context in which a marketing strategy is developed. Leaders will appraise theoretical frameworks and processes which inform strategic marketing. They will have the opportunity to reflect on the interrelationship between marketing and an organisation’s strategic aims along with the opportunities and impact of digital marketing. Ultimately, leaders will consider how to develop a marketing strategy, which will enable organisational success.
The aim of this unit is to enable leaders to explore the principles of entrepreneurial practice, understand the different contexts in which entrepreneurship can flourish and the characteristics of entrepreneurial leadership.
The aim of this unit is for leaders to undertake a strategic management project of their own choosing. To achieve this outcome leaders will develop a business case, propose research design to inform the project’s direction and recommend project management methods and tools to structure the delivery of the project. Leaders will report on project outcomes and reflect on the skills and behaviours which ultimately influence the success of the strategic management project..
The aim of this unit is to enable strategic leaders to develop an evidence-based understanding of applied research methods and the ways research can be conducted scientifically, ethically and legally in an organisational context. The unit will support strategic leaders to become producers of applied research, with the ability to generate new knowledge, based on the practical challenges of the workplace. The aim is to facilitate strategic decision making, and ultimately add value to the organisation
The objective of this unit is to assist leaders in comprehending methods for enhancing their personal and professional growth. Leaders will critically reflect on the interrelationship between the skillset and mindset to develop and reflect on their own personal, interpersonal and professional competencies and behaviours to lead strategically. This is an opportunity for you to reflect on your own performance to develop a meaningful personal and professional development plan.
The aim of this unit is to enable leaders to develop an in-depth understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion at a strategic level. Leaders will have the opportunity to critically assess structural inequality within an organisational and societal context. They will discuss approaches to comply with legal and good practice requirements and to appraise the influence of equality, diversity and inclusion on strategic objectives. The unit culminates in leaders being given the opportunity to develop strategic priorities for equality, diversity and inclusion.
The aim of the unit is for leaders to understand the impact of mental health and well-being on organisational performance. Leaders will critically assess the complexities of managing well-being and will appraise contemporary approaches for the creation of healthy work systems. The unit culminates in leaders being given the opportunity to propose a series of recommendations to create and sustain a positive culture of mental health and well-being within an organisational context.
Group B
The ability to procure, purchase and contract goods, services and capital items effectively is of paramount importance if an organisation is to succeed. For the professional manager and leader this knowledge and understanding is invaluable. It has the power to enhance decision making, strategic and operational planning and the effective delivery of outcomes within budgetary constraints.
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Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and sustainability are topics keenly related to organisational accountability. Definitions and approaches taken to manage and lead CSR and sustainability vary according to the type and purpose of an organisation and its governance. Approaches typically include the development of aims and objectives, policy and strategy, with the intent to address the impact of an organisation’s activity on society, the environment and a commitment to ethical and responsible conduct.
Effective quality management is critical to meeting stakeholder needs and expectations, developing trust and reputation. It impacts on profitability, processes and procedures and the achievement of strategic objectives. Quality is not something that occurs by chance. It is reliant on strategic and operational planning as well as the commitment accompanied with drive by professional managers, leaders, teams and individuals to make it a success.
The principles laid down in organisational, corporate, functional and departmental policies have a direct bearing on the daily activities of an organisations workforce. Policy focuses on the activities which are of critical importance to an organisation. Policies can be used to set strategic direction. Policies also set expectations about the behaviours and values required by staff to work ethically and professionally within their roles and when representing the organisation.
The aim of the unit is to enable professional managers and leaders to take a fresh look at the role policy plays within an organisation, know how policy can be developed and ultimately, cascaded successfully to its intended audience.
Coaching is a powerful learning and development tool. Used effectively, it is able to optimise individual and team performance and the achievement of organisational goals. Coaching has rapidly become an essential leadership tool. It enables the professional manager and leader to support, motivate and empower individuals and teams in a conversational and insightful way. This contrasts with and complements the use of traditional directive leadership approaches.
A key part of this unit is for leaders to critically reflect on own their own ability to coach individuals and identify opportunities for improvement. In order to achieve this, learners will need to use coaching skills in their leadership practice.
The ability to make ethical decisions under pressure is a fundamental requirement of a professional manager and leader. Ethical decision making is not easy, especially when decisions are under the spotlight of stakeholder opinion, constrained by organisational, legal and regulatory requirements, where ambiguity exists, where risks are high or where the outcome of decisions will be unpopular.
The aim of this unit is to equip professional managers and leaders with the understanding of how to make ethical decisions in different organisational contexts.
Career and Progression Prospects
The CMI Level 7 Extended Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice is a valuable qualification for senior professionals aiming to enhance their strategic leadership capabilities and advance their careers. It provides the knowledge and skills necessary to lead organisations effectively and achieve long-term success. Completing this qualification can position you better for executive roles, MBA progression, and broader strategic responsibilities.
What You Could Earn
We want to help you achieve the best outcome in your studies so you can flourish in your desired path.
Senior Director
per year
Chief Operations Officer
per year
Chief Executive Officer
per year
Included with your course.
Stay on track with direct access to expert recommendations, general support, and answers to all your questions. Kick-start your course with a 45-minute guidance session within 1-week of enrolment, followed by regular monthly check-in emails. You can also request a live session with your trainer halfway through the course.
As part of your CMI course with ITonlinelearning, you’ll benefit from our assignment pre-checking service, designed to give you added confidence before submitting to the CMI. Our team will review your assignments in advance to ensure they meet the required standards, are correctly structured, and align with the assessment criteria. This supportive step helps you identify areas for improvement, reduce the chance of resubmissions, and maximise your chances of passing successfully on the first attempt.
All our CMI qualifications come with free CMI membership for the duration of your course. As a member, you’ll have full access to the CMI’s extensive resources and support, including the ManagementDirect portal, career development tools, CPD materials, webinars, and networking opportunities with like-minded professionals. This membership not only supports you throughout your studies but also enhances your professional credibility as you progress in your management career.
Join a vibrant community of current students and certified tutors where you can share experiences, ask questions, and exchange valuable insights. Our student community gives you the chance to gain practical course tips, and explore industry-specific knowledge that supports both your studies and your career growth. By being part of this network, you’ll never feel alone on your learning journey and will benefit from the collective experience of those who have already achieved success.
Stay motivated throughout your learning journey with a personal study coach who provides all the ad-hoc support you need to succeed in your certification.
Get instant help whenever you need it! Our live chat team is always on hand to provide prompt, real-time assistance with your questions and challenges. Whether you need clarification on course material, guidance on assignments, or support navigating your learning platform, our dedicated team ensures you’re never left without help. And if our team is offline, you can still reach out and we’ll respond as soon as possible to keep your learning journey on track.
You’ll have 18 months of full access (unless otherwise stated or arranged with a career consultant on sign up) to your course materials as standard with every CMI qualification. While many learners complete their studies in a shorter time frame, we believe in giving you the flexibility to learn at your own pace. Having a full year of access means you can revisit the content whenever you need, refresh your knowledge, and make the most of the resources throughout your learning journey.
CMI Level 7 Extended Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice Frequently Asked Questions
You have questions, and we have all the answers
The Level 7 CMI qualification is intended for Senior Managers, Directors, and CEOs looking to grow their existing skills in management and leadership.
The Level 7 CMI qualification is equivalent to a Master’s Degree, Postgraduate Certificate/Diploma, and Doctorate in academic terms.
CMI qualifications are available at different levels of depth and duration. Awards are the shortest and most concise qualification type. Certificates provide a broader base of knowledge and skills and take longer to complete. Diplomas provide a comprehensive and extensive program of learning and typically take the longest of to complete.
CMI qualifications do not require individuals to take any official exams. However, a series of assignments must be completed and assessed by CMI-qualified Tutors before a qualification can be awarded. These assignments are research-based and have specific requirements, including font size and structure, as well as word limits that vary depending on the award, certificate, diploma, or extended diploma, and the level of the qualification.
The Chartered Manager status is the epitome of professional recognition in the management and leadership field. It signifies a commitment to exceptional management skills and continuing professional development, as well as a demonstrated ability to deliver measurable impact. As the only professional body with a Royal Charter, the CMI is uniquely qualified to award this prestigious designation. As a Chartered Manager, you would be able to indicate the prestige of your qualification with the post-nominals ‘CMgr’ following your name on professional documents and platforms including LinkedIn, your CV, or your email signature. Those just starting their careers in management may be interested in Foundation Chartered Manager status, which recognises existing skills and knowledge and provides a pathway to full Chartered Manager status.
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Learn more by speaking to one of our consultants
CMI Level 7 Award in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice
This Award focuses on providing the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to lead and drive business operations at a senior, regional, specialized or CEO level.
CMI Level 7 Certificate in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice
The CMI Level 7 Certificate is for senior leaders who want to further build on their strategic management and leadership skills and focus on the requirements of implementing an organisation’s strategy.
CMI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice
The CMI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice qualification is for senior leaders who want to further build on their strategic management and leadership skills and focus on the requirements of implementing an organisation’s strategy.
CMI Level 7 Extended Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice
The CMI Level 7 Extended Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership Practice is the highest qualification available at this level and would be best suited for Senior Leaders who want to build on their strategic management and leadership skills to effectively implement organisational strategy.
