Macro strategies (MS)

Replacing Business Development & Strategy (BD&S), the Macro Strategy track explores the big-picture forces shaping the future of international education. Sessions in this track examine high-level policy shifts, geopolitical dynamics, demographic trends, and emerging challenges and economic drivers that influence our sector. Designed for senior leaders and strategic thinkers, this track provides high-level insights to inform long-term planning, risk management, and institutional positioning. Discussions will unpack major system-level challenges and opportunities—from regulatory reform and government priorities to global competition, new market landscapes, and the evolving value proposition of international education. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the macro forces defining the next decade and leave with strategic frameworks to guide decision-making both within their institution and across the sector.  

Topics 

Topics under this KIA typically include:  

• shifting geopolitics and their impact on global education flows
• national education strategies
• the role of education in soft power and regional influence
• the future of international education
• growth markets, demographic change, and long-term demand forecasting
• portfolio diversification strategies: onshore, offshore, hybrid, and digital models
• competition vs collaboration in a crowded global marketplace
• funding models under pressure: cross-subsidy, diversification, and risk exposure
• cost structures, margin compression, and scalable growth strategies
• AI and automation as macro-level disruptors of education systems
• data-driven strategy: forecasting, scenario planning, and system intelligence
• social licence to operate - trust, reputation, and public value
• balancing growth with responsibility in emerging markets
• skills futures and the alignment (or misalignment) with national labour markets
• stress-testing international education strategies against future scenarios
• managing concentration risk and market dependency
• crisis governance and rapid decision-making at executive level
• partnerships, alliances, and consortia as macro-strategy tools

• Vice-Chancellors / Presidents
• Deputy Vice-Chancellors / Provosts (Global, International, Education, Strategy)
• Deans and Executive Deans
• CEOs / Executive Directors of education providers and peak bodies
• Directors of Strategy, International, Global Engagement, or Planning
• Government and ministerial advisors
• Policy leaders from national agencies and regulators
• Heads of International / Global Partnerships
• TNE and offshore campus leaders
• Market development and regional strategy leads

 Other AIEC key interest areas