What does it mean to lead wisely in the age of AI?
From April 27–29, Alba Graduate Business School welcomed Executive MBA students from the University of Jyväskylä for a specially designed field program, Leading with Phronesis, a three-day learning journey through philosophy, technology, leadership, and responsible action.
The program began with big questions. Can AI replace our cognitive and mental capabilities? Which skills should we choose to delegate, and which must remain deeply human? How do we set boundaries without limiting creativity? How do we stay excellent, updated, and accountable without being carried away by the speed of technological change?
These questions opened a space for reflection on what leaders choose to keep human: judgment, courage, responsibility, and practical wisdom.
Guided by Dr. Gerasimos Kouvaras, participants explored Aristotle’s philosophy and reflected on the links between personal values, societal challenges, and leadership identity. A visit to AiTHERION brought classical thought into conversation with today’s techno-ethical dilemmas, showing how ancient wisdom can still challenge, sharpen, and inspire contemporary leaders.
On the second day, Professor Nikolaos Mylonopoulos connected the dots between ancient wisdom and the AI era. As technology increasingly automates complex tasks, he invited participants to consider where leadership value truly lies: in judgment, character, courage, and practical wisdom.
The journey concluded beyond the classroom, through a gastronomical experience at Open Farm by Vouryia and a visit to Papagiannakos Winery. In conversation with winemaker Vassilis Papagiannakos, facilitated by Maria Moragianis, participants explored how difficult decisions, everyday choices, and long-term commitment can reshape not only a business but an entire ecosystem. His story of bringing Savatiano wine of Attica back to the Greek wine map offered a powerful closing reflection on phronesis in practice.
Developed in collaboration with Ari Manninen and Sanna Kouvalainen, Leading with Phronesis offered the University of Jyväskylä EMBA students a rich learning experience shaped by Greek philosophy, contemporary leadership challenges, and meaningful encounters across Athens. For Alba, it was a pleasure to welcome such an engaged group of Finnish leaders and to share a program designed to connect wisdom with action.
