Western‐sponsored Training Programmes: Russian Managers′ Expectations

Russian Managers as Learners

In the drive to develop training courses for Russian managers, very little attention has been directed towards the crucial question of the characteristics of Russian managers as learners and receivers of western management knowledge. This article examines current theories and assumptions of management learning and applies these to direct experiences of imparting market-economy skills to Russian construction managers. Various constraints on how these managers preconceive and accept western management knowledge are highlighted with some use of Russian-language sources. It is argued that these theories and assumptions have only limited relevance to Russian managers at this stage in their development, and concluded that the overriding challenge to western educators is to change Russian managers' attitudes and misconceptions of management as an essential prerequisite.

Management development under adversity?

Examines the nature of management training in Poland, which has been largely technical and production oriented with little emphasis on strategic or behavioural aspects. Presents case studies of two companies in Poland which are typical of management development in general. Concludes that although there is a need for more professional and entrepreneurial managers at all levels, the economic, political and social changes that are under way are creating pressure to survive and are diminishing organizations′ capacity to commit resources to management development, should they even recognize its significance.