With institutions navigating complex challenges across the globe, with increased volatility, there is a demand for exceptional leaders who can navigate change effectively. Robust leadership development has never been more critical than during these pivotal moments of change.
We have curated an established portfolio of leadership programmes, workshops and symposiums to support the development of both academic and professional services staff from across the institution to ensure your team are skilled and able to manage and drive transformation. Our portfolio of can assist with:
- Enhancing institutional adaptability
- Developing strategic leadership capabilities
- Developing your current and future leaders
- Optimising operational effectiveness
- Improving student experience delivery
- Diversifying your leadership team
We also offer a range of bespoke development programmes and training which can be delivered in-house to suit your individual needs and circumstances.
If you are part of a research team or organisation, you can find out more about our leadership programme for research teams here.
Request the NEW programmes and events brochure 2025/26
Request your copy of the new programme and events brochure, which includes a dedicated Leadership section.
Development for emerging leaders
We offer a range of development opportunities for those who are taking their first steps into leadership, including programmes to support with diversifying leadership.
Aurora
Various start dates and locations available, hybrid delivery Aurora is a leadership ignition journey exclusively for women, up to senior lecturer level or the professional services equivalent. We have cohorts running across the country.
Diversifying Leadership
15 October 2025, London and 25 February 2026, Manchester Support early-career academics, professional services staff, lecturers, and senior lecturers from Black, Asian, and minority ethnic backgrounds, taking their first step into leadership.
Transition to Leadership
23 October 2025, virtual Designed to support academic and professional service staff who are taking their first steps into leadership roles.
I started the Aurora Programme at the same times as starting a new leadership role. I have been able to take real actionable steps from the programme content, as well as build some of the confidence and self belief in my leadership style. I would recommend anyone at a cross-roads to undertake this course as it has made me reflect on my priorities and how I bring myself to work and my leadership role. Thank you Aurorans!”
Doyin Mansell, Research Centre Manager, University of Manchester
Development for senior and executive leaders
We offer a range of development opportunities for those who are experienced leaders including development for those with a strategic role who are implementing change.
Leading Departments
1 May 2026, in-person (venue TBC) Designed to engage, support and develop new Heads of Department to meet the operational and commercial challenges of leading and managing academic or professional service teams.
Preparing for Senior Strategic Leadership
11 March 2026, hybrid delivery Develop the personal resilience, emotional intelligence and creativity needed by those operating at a strategic level in higher education. Designed for new or those aspiring to be senior leaders up to and including Deans, Heads or Directors.
Senior Women’s Leadership Development Programme
7 October 2025, virtual delivery A women-only programme that covers the key strategic areas of operation and explores individual leadership styles, leadership legacy, personal impact and developing political skills.
Strategic Leadership Programme
6 November 2025, hybrid delivery For those who want to exercise their strategic vision to make a meaningful impact in shaping the future direction of the higher education sector through influence and engagement.
Top Management Programme
7 November 2025, hybrid delivery A development opportunity specifically created for those in an executive role in a higher education institution. Designed to equip senior leaders, with the necessary skills to extend thinking and practice, and to face the challenges of HE leadership.
The programme was really transformational for me. It helped me to re-centre and reconnect to my work…I can’t recommend Strategic Leadership Programme enough to anyone who’s thinking about joining this programme.”
Hayley Burns, Deputy Dean for the Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science, University of South Wales
Development for academic leaders
We offer programmes that benefit those in academic leadership roles, including for those who are driving educational change.
Enhancing Programme Leadership
9 October 2025, virtual delivery Supporting programme leaders to meet the challenges of a dynamic leadership environment through the development of understanding, learning and practice within your own context.
Leading Educational Change
A leadership program that focuses on collaborative management and delivery of education change projects, enhancing understanding and collaboration.
An engaging and insightful program for developing practice and networking connections.”
Ellie Thorogood, Hartpury University and Hartpury College, participant on Enhancing Programme Leadership
Related stories
Aurora
Why choose Advance HE
Our external perspective, teamed with unique sector knowledge and experience enables meaningful and effective transformation. With our deep expertise in higher education leadership, we offer:
- Proven strategies for developing outstanding leaders
- Targeted programmes that address the unique challenges of higher education institutions
- A track record of supporting emerging leaders across the sector.
Related Services
Bespoke In-house Delivery
Many of our programmes can be delivered bespoke for your institution, with in-house delivery. By working in partnership with you our expert team will assess your current needs and develop a solution that is highly customised and individual to your institution.
Leadership Consultancy
Our expert consultancy services turn complexity into opportunity. We provide tailored strategies, insights, and leadership support to guide your institution through critical transformations.
Framework for Leading in Higher Education
Building leadership capacity that aligns individual attributes, strategic intention and institutional impact.
