The Office of Business Practice Improvement has announced the launch of Business Practice Improvement (BPI) Scholars, a professional development opportunity with a practical twist.

Not only is the program designed to help early-to-mid-career Emory staff members develop hands-on problem-solving and leadership skills, it requires them to use those skills to help identify and solve a business problem within their home unit.

Applicants are now being sought for the inaugural class of BPI Scholars, who will engage in a yearlong program of study to develop project management, communication, analytical, and leadership skills, while remaining in their current roles.

The program is targeted at full-time Emory employees with at least two years of service. Through a formal application process, candidates will be asked to target an opportunity to improve operations in their current unit, which will then become the focus of their work as a BPI Scholar.

Program work, including classroom time, will account for a commitment of about four hours a week outside of regular duties, with instruction provided by BPI staff, other Emory faculty and staff, and outside consultants. Beyond enhancing individual skills, the program is intended to help Emory develop a pipeline of future business leaders on campus.

Applicants must have the support and sponsorship of their supervisors — and the approval of their department administrator or chief business officer — in order to apply. Successful applicants will have demonstrated strong leadership potential, excellent analytical and communication skills, and a team orientation.

Applications are due Nov. 30 for the first class, which will begin in January 2014. A second session will start in September 2014; applications for that class will be due by April 30, 2014.

Candidates should submit a resume and application, along with a completed sponsorship statement from their supervisors. All forms may be found online. Applications materials should be emailed to: bpischolars@emory.edu.