The Opportunity
For Microsoft, emerging markets were not peripheral — they were the frontier of future growth.
Senior leaders needed to operate effectively in complex political, social and economic environments while balancing commercial and societal priorities. At the same time, the company wanted to accelerate readiness among high-potential leaders preparing for Corporate Vice President roles.
The Journey
Emerging World and Microsoft co-created Front Lines, a leadership experience delivered in emerging markets including Kenya and Peru. Leaders engaged directly with entrepreneurs, NGOs, governments and multilateral organizations to understand the realities shaping growth markets.
Participants then partnered with aligned organizations to work on live strategic challenges. Using a structured questioning process, leaders examined issues collectively before identifying practical next steps. Reflection throughout the experience helped translate exposure into leadership insight.
The Transformation
Leaders reported stronger understanding of emerging market dynamics and greater readiness for senior responsibility.
Across four cohorts over five years, 97 senior leaders supported 21 partner organizations.
- 100% reported deeper understanding of emerging market business realities.
- 100% felt better prepared for increased responsibility.
- 88% felt more prepared to engage government stakeholders.
Microsoft recorded its highest-ever satisfaction rating for a high-potential programme (NSAT 178/200)
Partner confidence in successful outcomes increased from 40% to 100%. The programme set a new benchmark for leadership development aligned with strategy and impact.
The programme received the EFMD Excellence in Practice Award.
One participant reflected on the impact of the experience: “Microsoft is indebted to Emerging World for its role in making Front Lines a ground-breaking leadership development experience that also positively impacts our bottom line.”
