Credible Leadership is a distinctive leadership development programme designed for higher education professionals who want to lead with confidence, authority and impact. Developed for Advance HE, the course addresses a persistent challenge in academic and professional contexts: how to be seen, heard and trusted as a leader, particularly in complex, values-driven environments.
Grounded in contemporary leadership research and extensive sector experience, the programme integrates leadership credibility with professional visibility, self-promotion, authority and self-management. Participants explore what makes leaders credible in practice, how leadership is enacted through relationships and influence, and how early “quick wins” can establish legitimacy and momentum. The course also tackles often-unspoken dynamics around visibility, executive presence and authority, equipping participants with practical strategies to enhance their professional profile without compromising authenticity.
Highly interactive and reflective, Credible Leadership combines evidence-based frameworks, peer discussion and applied exercises. Participants leave with a clearer leadership narrative, increased confidence in assertive communication, and practical tools to amplify their impact within their institution.
Credible Leadership is particularly valuable for those navigating progression, stepping into new roles, or seeking to lead more visibly and effectively. It enables participants not only to understand leadership—but to be recognised as leaders.
Event information
Credible Leadership (Online)
Date: Friday 22 May 2026
Time: 10:00 – 15:00
If you’d like to make further enquires please email programmes@advance-he.ac.uk
Key benefits
By completing this program, you will:
- Identify and overcome cultural leadership barriers
- Build and leverage strategic networks for career advancement
- Develop practical tools for establishing and maintaining authority
- Create a sustainable framework for continued leadership growth
- Master the art of visible credibility in your leadership journey
“What a thought provoking and inspiring course! So many topics covered that resonate with my leadership journey around knowing myself and the kind of leader I aspire to be. Enjoyed sharing experiences and learning from other female leaders exploring personal brand, self-promotion, credible authority, difficult conversations… I could go on! Thoroughly recommend this course.”
Michelle Dixon, Durham University
Who is delivering the course?
Suzanne O’Brien
Principal Lecturer
Canterbury Christ Church University
Programme structure
This workshop considers how we define and identify leadership and credibility and examines professional visibility, self-promotion and authority. Combining extensive relevant research and the experience of our expert facilitation team, participants will have the opportunity to collaborate in this interactive workshop and make space to reflect on their own practice. There will be regular breaks throughout the session for your comfort and convenience.
