Launch of three programs to address critical AI talent shortages through practice-driven, accessible learning in business analytics, strategic decision-making, and cyber-resilient transformation
Plano, Texas, March 18, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — learn simplyWe have partnered with , a leading digital skills training provider. University of Oxford Said Business School, We are launching three AI-focused programs for professionals leading the integration of AI within their organizations. Program – Oxford Program in AI and Business Analytics;Oxford Program in Strategic Analysis and Decision Making Using AI;and Oxford Program in Cyber Resilient Digital Transformation – Designed to address the growing AI talent gap and develop leaders with the framework and technical fluency needed to lead responsible AI integration at scale.
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As artificial intelligence transforms industries at an unprecedented rate, organizations are facing a critical shortage of experienced professionals who can translate AI capabilities into business value while managing the associated risks. A recent McKinsey report found that 88% of companies now regularly use AI in at least one business function, up from 78% last year, but less than one-third of executives feel their company has enough AI talent to effectively execute strategic initiatives. These programs address this critical gap by preparing professionals with the strategic framework, ethical considerations, and practical implementation capabilities needed to lead AI integration initiatives that have a measurable impact on business.
Kashyap Dalal, co-founder and COO of Simplilearn, said of the program:: “Although AI has moved from experimental adoption to foundational infrastructure in all sectors, the leadership skills needed to responsibly exploit its potential remain in short supply. Our partnership with Oxford University’s Saïd Business School reflects our commitment to making advanced AI education more accessible and bringing industry and academia closer together. This curriculum is built to develop the strategic judgment, governance framework, and implementation capabilities to confidently lead an enterprise-wide AI transformation. As AI reshapes competitive dynamics and operating models, organizations need leaders who can translate analysis into strategy, responsibly integrate AI into decision-making frameworks, and build cyber-resilient digital infrastructures. By providing access to the expertise of the school’s world-class faculty through a flexible online format designed for professionals around the world, we address critical market needs while advancing our mission to develop future leaders who develop responsible and effective leaders. ”
Together, the three programs form a comprehensive AI leadership curriculum that addresses complementary aspects of AI-powered business transformation.
Oxford Program in AI and Business Analytics It focuses on transforming descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive analytics into strategic business decisions and preparing leaders to bridge the gap between data science and board strategy through real-world case studies including capstone projects at Hartford Healthcare and Rialto e-commerce.
Oxford Program in Strategic Analysis and Decision Making Using AI Leverage AI as a decision support partner, explore frameworks like PESTEL analysis and Porter’s Five Forces, and empower professionals to enhance their strategic thinking capabilities by using generative AI tools for scenario planning, competitive analysis, and developing evidence-based recommendations.
Oxford Program in Cyber Resilient Digital Transformation Tackle the critical challenge of embedding a cyber risk mindset into AI-powered enterprises and teach leaders how to evaluate emerging technologies, protect critical assets, and effectively communicate technology risks at the board and executive levels.
The program is designed using evidence-based learning principles based on the Universal Design for Learning framework, developed by Oxford Said faculty, and includes self-paced modules alongside live sessions that support applied learning and practical application. This approach provides flexibility for working professionals while maintaining academic rigor and practical relevance.
Commenting on this partnership, Rishad Lilani, Associate Director at Oxford Said Online, said:University of Oxford Said Business Schoolsaid: “Our partnership with Simplilearn represents a strategic alignment between academic excellence and global accessibility in addressing responsible AI integration at the organizational level. With these programs, we equip leaders with the analytical rigor, human oversight principles, and cross-functional integration capabilities needed to drive digital transformation that withstands board-level scrutiny while creating measurable business value. ”
Learners will obtain a certificate of attendance from Oxford University’s Said Business School upon successful completion of the program, subject to meeting the requirements outlined in the program orientation module. They will also join the Oxford Said Alumni Community, a global network of over 50,000 professionals across more than 195 countries, and gain access to exclusive resources, events and opportunities.
These programs are designed for professionals in strategic, leadership, or management roles. This includes business managers and functional leaders, strategy and transformation experts, analytics and business intelligence leaders, consultants advising on AI-driven change, and product and digital and technology leaders responsible for enterprise AI initiatives.
About Said Business School
Saïd Business School is a vibrant and innovative school located within the University of Oxford, offering accredited degrees and diplomas for undergraduate and postgraduate students, and an extensive portfolio of on-campus and online courses for executives. The school educates global business leaders, changemakers, and innovators across all industries and sectors. Its groundbreaking research and outstanding teaching transform individuals, which transform businesses, which transform the world, and create impact from within.
In partnership with SimpliLearn, our professional programs are promoted and delivered to professionals around the world through high-quality digital learning experiences. This partnership brings together Oxford’s academic excellence and Simplilearn’s digital learning strengths to offer aspiring leaders an innovative and future-ready learning journey.
About SimpliLearn
Founded in 2010, Simplilearn, a Blackstone portfolio company, is a global leader in digital upskilling, giving learners around the world access to world-class training for individuals and businesses. SimpliLearn offers more than 1,500 live classes each month in more than 150 countries, impacting more than 8 million learners worldwide. Its programs are designed and delivered in collaboration with world-renowned universities, top companies, and leading industry associations. From early career professionals to managers and executives to small businesses and large corporations, Simplilearn’s role-based, skills-focused, industry-recognized, and globally relevant training programs provide the perfect upskilling solution for a variety of career and business goals.
For more information, please visit www.simplelearn.com.
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