London and Milan top twin FT executive education rankings

May 18, 2026 - 02:50

The Financial Times has released its latest executive education rankings, with London and Milan emerging as the top cities for both open and custom programmes. Business schools in these hubs have strengthened their positions by adapting quickly to shifting corporate demands, particularly around artificial intelligence and geopolitical risk.

In the open enrolment category, programmes that focus on AI strategy, data-driven decision-making, and leadership in volatile markets have seen the strongest growth. Schools in London and Milan have invested heavily in these areas, offering short courses that help executives navigate everything from machine learning tools to supply chain disruptions caused by political instability.

The custom programmes segment, where courses are tailored for specific companies, also reflects this trend. Organisations are increasingly asking for modules that address geopolitical tensions, regulatory changes, and the ethical use of AI. This shift has helped European institutions maintain their edge, even as competition from North American and Asian schools intensifies.

However, expansion in the Middle East has slowed. Ongoing conflicts and regional instability have made it harder for business schools to establish or grow partnerships there. Several institutions that had planned to open campuses or run large-scale programmes in the Gulf have scaled back their ambitions. While demand for executive education remains high in the region, the uncertain environment has forced schools to pause or redirect resources.

The rankings also highlight a broader move toward shorter, more flexible formats. Busy executives now prefer modules that can be completed in days rather than weeks, with a strong emphasis on practical, immediately applicable skills. Both London and Milan have responded well to this demand, offering hybrid options that combine online learning with in-person workshops.

the twin ranking underscores how executive education is evolving. The focus is no longer just on traditional management theory but on real-time problem solving in a world shaped by technology and geopolitical change.