<p>This paper explains how a philosophy program impacted the development of managers. In 2022, a European institute – dedicated to facilitating philosophical dialogue experiences – launched a new program for young executives. It aimed to develop more competent and responsible managers through philosophical practice based on Socratic and Levinassian principles. Executives were invited to engage in dialogues with people at risk of social exclusion to philosophize on matters such as identity, fear, happiness, love, responsibility, democracy and civic engagement. Though conventional management topics were omitted in this 12-week program, a study based on 25 interviews indicated that managers had an increased willingness to engage in social issues and became more concerned about the world and communities they live in. They also claimed to develop key managerial competencies including self-awareness, independent thinking, relationship-building, communication, questioning and a sense of responsibility. These competencies connect to literature on ethics, emotional intelligence and wisdom. They also indicate – with the help of empirical evidence – how managers can benefit from philosophical practice. Thus, this paper contribute to building a case in favour of philosophy programs for managers by showing the outcomes of one particular case.</p>