The Indian Institute of Management Mumbai (IIM Mumbai) has partnered with The Company of Master Mariners of India (CMMI) to launch a groundbreaking executive MBA programme. This two-year course, the first of its kind in India, focuses on maritime management, logistics, and supply chain management, catering to the evolving needs of an industry valued at approximately $450 billion.
The announcement was made on 2nd September during an inauguration event in Mumbai. The Chairman of CMMI, highlighted the novelty of this programme, noting that India previously lacked an executive MBA combining logistics and maritime management. “This MBA represents a significant advancement in maritime education and management. We aim to cater not just to seafarers but also to executives in logistics and supply chain sectors,” he stated. Described as the “dawn of a new era in maritime education,” the programme is designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders equipped to handle the complexities of global logistics and maritime operations. The inaugural batch comprises 39 students, reflecting the strong interest in this niche but critical field. The course, structured to be completed in two years but flexible enough to extend up to three, includes 30 modules—19 on management and 11 on maritime studies.
The programme’s structure combines 80% online learning with 20% offline, targeting middle and senior-level professionals. Graduates will earn a degree from IIM Mumbai, which is poised to bolster their career prospects across various sectors including shipping, logistics, export-import trade, and marine insurance. Notably, the programme offers significant advantages for its alumni, who will gain IIM’s prestigious alumni status, enhancing their global employability.
Professor from IIM Mumbai, addressing the course’s relevance, stressed the institution’s longstanding expertise in supply chain management and sustainability. He pointed out that shipping accounts for around 90% of global trade, underscoring the importance of skilled professionals in this sector. “With India being the world’s 16th largest maritime nation and a significant player in global trade, this programme aims to nurture experts who can lead and innovate in maritime and supply chain management,” he said. Overall, this executive MBA programme is set to fill a critical void in maritime education and significantly impact the industry by producing leaders who are well-versed in the multifaceted aspects of global logistics and supply chain management.
