Challenge
In 2018, a global engineering consultancy sought to refresh a core leadership programme to better support its strategic priorities: growth in core markets, expansion into new sectors, and greater use of data to drive innovation. The business needed to grow high-performing mid-career professionals with leadership potential. It had to address a wide range of priorities—from improving succession pipelines and resourcing major projects, to sharpening commercial thinking and developing entrepreneurial mindsets.
Solution
We began by working with senior leaders to define the attributes needed for future success. This led to a tailored 7-pillar Development Model and a three-stage programme structure. Entry was by sponsor nomination, reinforcing strategic alignment and participant commitment.
Delegates completed psychometrics and a bespoke 360-degree feedback exercise, with insights interpreted by chartered psychologists to shape individual development plans.
The programme launched as a series of bi-monthly development centres. Each one-day centre combined individual coaching with workshops on conflict handling, networking, and career planning. Delegates then presented their plans to sponsors to secure ongoing support.
Covid prompted a shift to digital delivery, increasing global access and lowering costs—without sacrificing quality.
Impact
Now in its sixth year, the programme is embedded in the firm’s leadership development strategy. Over 90% of participants rate the experience as good or excellent, and around 25% have been promoted by at least one level since 2021.
The client has seen improvements in employee engagement scores around feedback, career development, and perceived investment in people. Insights from programme data now inform recruitment, succession planning and wider learning initiatives.
This programme has delivered measurable impact at both individual and organisational levels—strengthening the leadership pipeline, supporting strategic change, and reinforcing the company’s commitment to inclusive career development.