Start-up to Success: How the AICD Course transformed Dr. Ansari’s approach to leadership

"We need more people, especially from emerging industries, to attend courses like this, to reshape their view, not just change their view, reshape it towards the right direction."

Dr. Omid Ansari, the founder and CEO of HempGen Tech, recently completed the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) course as part of his commitment to growing the Australian hemp industry. In this episode, Dr. Ansari shares how the course equipped him with the tools to lead his startup company through its critical early stages.

He explains that as a CEO in an emerging industry, he recognised the need for a deeper understanding of corporate governance, strategic decision-making, and risk management. The AICD course provided him with a systematic approach to building a solid foundation for his business based on best practices.

Dr. Ansari highlights key takeaways from the course, including establishing clear governance structures, making informed financial decisions, and developing strategic planning skills. He emphasises how these learnings have not only benefited his own company, but also enabled him to become a more effective leader and role model for the fragmented hemp industry.

By completing this course, Dr. Ansari has gained the confidence and expertise to guide his startup through the challenges of an evolving market. His insights underscore the value of formal training for industry leaders looking to drive innovation and growth.

Further Resources

Want to gain the skills to drive innovation and growth in your industry? Apply now for one of the 2025 AgriFutures Learning and Development Opportunities for the chance to secure an AgriFutures-sponsored position in up to nine nationally renowned programs including the AICD (applications close Wednesday, 8 January 2025).