The Leaders' Programme is a modular cross-party leadership development opportunity designed around the needs of council leaders.
About the programme
The Leaders' Programme will support and stretch leaders to ensure they have the capacity to successfully lead their communities and organisations. The programme seeks to create a safe space for council leaders to share their concerns and challenges; learn from one another; work together on addressing the big issues they face; and explore and test new ways of working and leading across their organisations, partnerships and communities.
Participants themselves will set the programme agenda, selecting from a menu of expert speakers and supported throughout with external facilitation.
Benefits of attending
The programme will provide a group of like-minded council leaders with the time and space to:
- better understand the changing environment and how it might impact on their local community and landscape
- develop and enhance their organisations agility and resilience when addressing the complex and difficult challenges their communities face
- reflect and sharpen their own leadership skills so that they are better equipped to harness collaborative energies of individuals, communities, businesses and public sector partners to deliver enhanced public value in these challenging times.
Who is it for?
The programme is aimed at Council leaders or directly elected mayors who have been in the role for 1.5 years or more (unless they are Leadership Academy graduates). All participants will be invited through our political group offices.
Dates
- Module 1: Thursday 19 November – Friday 20 November 2026
Personal resilience and effectiveness as a political leader
To provide a reflective, honest space for political leaders to consider their resilience, leadership style and personal impact in the role. This module supports leaders to strengthen their capacity to lead under pressure, build confidence / emotional intelligence and explore / reconnect with their purpose and the big ‘WHY’. - Module 2: Thursday 14 January – Friday 15 January 2027
Managing your political group dynamics
To equip leaders with the tools and insight needed to navigate political group dynamics both within their own party and across the council chamber. This module explores the interplay of influence, conflict, trust and political capital. - Module 3: Thursday 11 February – Friday 12 February 2027
The role of the local government leader on a regional and national platform
To explore the broader responsibilities of council leaders and elected mayors in the context of place-shaping, devolution and national influence. This module focuses on system leadership, strategic alliances, and legacy.
Contact
Grace Collins
Telephone: 0207 664 3054
Email: [email protected]
