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BERKELEY SCHOOL OF BUSINESS, ARTS & SCIENCES

ACCA Strategic Business Leader (SBL)

Build Strategic Business Leader skills with ACCA SBL. Bring strategy, governance, risk and finance together in practical business cases. Then turn your analysis into clear advice that supports responsible leadership and change.

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ACCA Strategic Business Leader (SBL)

Overview

Strategic Business Leader course overview

ACCA Strategic Business Leader (SBL) develops leadership, strategic thinking and practical business skills. First, you learn to assess a business situation and explain the choices open to its leaders. The course connects governance, sustainability, strategy, risk, technology, data, internal control, finance and change.

Next, learners examine financial and non-financial information to assess performance. For example, you can compare strategic options, identify key risks and recommend a clear course of action. In addition, you consider stakeholder interests and the duties of those who lead an organisation.

Case studies help you bring these topics together. As a result, you practise using evidence to support your recommendations. Finally, exam preparation strengthens judgement, critical thinking and communication so that you can present a balanced answer to a business problem.

Table of contents

  • Overview and entry requirements
  • Learning methods and professional skills
  • Exam information and career paths
  • Course benefits and registration

Strategic Business Leader at a glance

Study focusPractical skill
Strategy and leadershipCompare options and guide business decisions.
Governance and riskAssess responsibilities, controls and uncertainty.
Finance and dataUse evidence to evaluate performance.
Change and communicationExplain recommendations and support implementation.

Next, review the official ACCA SBL syllabus and study guide. Explore Advanced Performance Management and Strategic Business Reporting to connect your Strategic Business Leader studies with related topics.

Offered By

ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants)

Head office

The head office is located in London, UK.

Members

As of 2024, ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) has approximately 250,000 members globally.

Vision & Mission

The vision of ACCA Strategic Business Leader (SBL) is to develop responsible business leaders who drive organisational success through strategic thinking, ethical leadership and effective decision-making. Its mission focuses on equipping learners with leadership, governance, risk management and analytical skills to evaluate complex business challenges, guide organisational change, balance stakeholder interests and implement sustainable strategies while upholding professional integrity and accountability.

What is the eligibility?

Candidates should have completed ACCA Applied Skills or hold the relevant exemptions required to progress to the Strategic Professional level. A sound understanding of business strategy, leadership, corporate governance, risk management, financial management and organisational performance is recommended before attempting ACCA Strategic Business Leader (SBL). Candidates should meet ACCA’s applicable exam entry requirements. Completing the Ethics and Professional Skills Module (EPSM) before attempting SBL is recommended to strengthen professional judgement and exam readiness. 

Who can do?

Who can do?
anyone who is interested to learn about following concepts can pursue ACCA Strategic Business Leader (SBL):
Strategic leadership, corporate governance, business strategy, risk management, organisational change, sustainability, stakeholder management, internal controls, financial decision-making, business performance evaluation and digital transformation..
individuals with the following designations:
Business Manager, Strategic Planning Manager, Operations Manager, Finance Manager, Management Consultant, Business Analyst, Project Manager, Risk Manager, Corporate Governance Specialist, Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Internal Audit Manager, Business Development Manager and Senior Management Professional..

Course Structure

ACCA Strategic Business Leader (SBL) is structured around 9 main modules, integrating strategic, leadership, governance, technology, finance and professional skills. 

Included

Leadership

Included

Governance and Sustainability

Included

Strategy

Included

Risk

Included

Technology and Data Analytics

Included

Organisational Control and Audit

Included

Finance in Planning and Decision-Making

Included

Enabling Success, Managing Change and Project Management

Included

Professional Skills

Lecture plan

The ACCA Strategic Business Leader (SBL) lecture plan covers leadership, governance, strategy, risk management, organizational transformation and financial performance. Furthermore, learners develop skills in evaluating complex business scenarios, assessing strategic options and recommending practical solutions. Through integrated case-study practice, they strengthen professional judgement, commercial awareness and communication skills for senior management decisions.

Session 1:

Session 2:

Session 3:

Session 4:

Session 5:

Session 6:

Session 7:

Session 8:

Session 9:

Learning Methodology

Berkeley offers expertly developed learning materials tailored to meet participants' needs, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the syllabus and optimal exam preparation.

‣ Tailored Material: Guides are designed to cover the entire syllabus, offering full preparation and deep understanding.

‣ In-Depth Content: Unlike superficial outlines, our materials provide fully developed theories and concepts, equipping participants with complete knowledge.

‣ Strategic Study: We help participants prioritize study time by indicating the weight of each topic, allowing efficient focus on crucial areas.

‣ Difficulty Levels: Topics are labeled as "Awareness" or "Proficiency," guiding participants to allocate time based on the required depth of knowledge.

‣ Comprehensive Coverage: Our materials include detailed theory and a glossary of technical terms to clarify complex concepts.

‣ Effective Learning Techniques: Visual aids and memorization techniques ensure long-lasting retention, helping candidates succeed.

Berkeley’s methodologies equip participants with the essential knowledge and tools for both exams and future success.

Lectures
Lectures

Our lecture plan integrates structured learning with interactive teaching methods, promoting engagement and collaboration. This approach ensures a comprehensive understanding of concepts, fostering critical thinking and practical application in real-world scenarios

Practice Session
Practice Session

Practice sessions offer hands-on experience through guided exercises, enhancing skills and reinforcing knowledge. This practical approach ensures mastery of concepts, promoting confidence and competence in real-world applications

Mock Examination
Mock Examination

Mock examinations simulate real test conditions, providing valuable practice and assessment. This helps identify strengths and weaknesses, ensuring thorough preparation and boosting confidence for actual exams

Berkeley Middle East Performance Standards

Evaluates and ensure the quality of the training program and all its deliverables.  This is measured through the following indicators:
‣ Instructors' experience and style in presenting and explaining topics.
‣ Variety and balance of teaching methods (such as discussions, case studies, mock exams and videos) used in the course to ensure retention and to match the learning objectives.
‣ Level of interactivity.
‣ Feedback from program participants
‣ Full compliance with Institute standards and guidelines for preparation and study requirements and methodology.
‣ Progress reports from the training program provider.

What are the Exam Information?

ACCA Strategic Business Leader (SBL)

ACCA Strategic Business Leader (SBL) develops strategic leadership, business analysis, governance and decision-making skills through integrated business case studies.

Exam Format & Duration

The ACCA SBL exam is a computer-based, closed-book assessment lasting 3 hours and 15 minutes. It comprises three compulsory tasks based on an integrated business case study, with 80 technical marks and 20 professional skills marks. Pre-seen information is released two weeks before the exam.

Exam Dates

ACCA SBL is generally available in the March, June, September and December exam sessions. Candidates should check the official ACCA exam timetable for confirmed dates and session availability.

Passing Criteria

Candidates must achieve a minimum score of 50% to pass the ACCA Strategic Business Leader (SBL) exam. Assessment covers technical knowledge, professional skills, strategic analysis, commercial awareness, evaluation and communication.

Exam Locations

The ACCA SBL exam is delivered through authorised computer-based exam centres, subject to local availability. Candidates should use the official ACCA exam booking platform to find approved centres and check available sessions in their preferred location.

Training Calendar

ACCA Strategic Business Leader (SBL)

Number of Lectures: 9

Delivery: Live Online Instructor-Led | Location: International

Dates: Start 07 Mar 2027 – End 02 May 2027

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Success Stories

Success Stories

“As a strong advocate for education and human development, I commend Berkeley for its exceptional commitment to empowering future leaders. The institution stands as a symbol of excellence, innovation, and opportunity. Students who walk its halls are nurtured with knowledge, values, and vision—qualities that contribute to building a stronger and more prosperous future for our nation.”

- H.H. Shaikh Khalifa Al Hamid

Alumni Benefits

‣ Exclusive Networking Events: Access invitations to industry-leading events and thought-leadership gatherings featuring renowned speakers.


‣ Monthly Updates: Stay informed with a newsletter highlighting the latest research, events, and activities from the school.


‣ LinkedIn Community Access: Join the Executive Education LinkedIn group for networking and professional development opportunities.


‣ Educational Discounts: Enjoy a 20% discount on open-enrollment programs and access to workshops focused on emerging trends.


‣ Global Alumni Network: Connect with a diverse alumni community through the Berkeley School’s online network and engage in country and interest groups.

Visit Our Alumni

Is It Worth the Investment?

Investing in ACCA Strategic Business Leader (SBL) is valuable for professionals seeking to strengthen their strategic leadership, business analysis and decision-making capabilities. The qualification develops expertise in corporate governance, risk management, organisational change, sustainability and stakeholder engagement. These competencies can support career progression into roles such as Business Manager, Strategy Consultant, Operations Manager, Risk Manager and senior leadership positions. Through integrated case studies and exam-focused preparation, candidates learn to evaluate complex business challenges, develop practical strategies and communicate evidence-based recommendations, making SBL a worthwhile investment for those pursuing leadership and strategic management careers.

Career path

Progression Route:

What You Earn

ACCA SBL certification validates strategic leadership, business analysis, governance and decision-making skills to support responsible management and organisational success.

What You Earn

Career Advancement

Explore opportunities in strategic management, business consulting, operations and corporate leadership.

Professional Development

Strengthen analytical thinking, professional judgement, communication and evidence-based decision-making.

Ethical Leadership

Apply ethical principles, accountability and sound governance to complex business decisions.

Comprehensive Curriculum

Build expertise in strategy, governance, risk management, sustainability and organisational change.

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FAQ: ACCA Strategic Business Leader (SBL)

contact us for more information or to apply for admission. Seats fill up quickly, so we encourage early registration!

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