WIREDGOV

Crucial public services to benefit from transformational leadership programme

• Programme is the first of its kind in England, bringing senior leaders together to innovate public services
• Increasing the quality of vital public services and value for the taxpayer
• Creation of a network of leaders to drive collaboration across the public sector

The new National Leadership Centre (NLC) welcomes its first cohort of public sector leaders today, developing their skills to help them transform public services. Invited participants, including Chief Constables, Fire Chiefs and CEOs of Hospital Trusts, will begin a coaching and collaboration programme with support from world leading institutions such as the University of Oxford and MIT.

Each year, the innovative programme will develop the skills of over 100 senior public service leaders. Participants will be coached in different areas including future technologies, like AI and robotics, to understand how they can embrace new tools to transform public service.

A new global evaluation hub will support data-driven research on leadership and innovation, further enhancing the UK’s position as a thought leader on public services.

Chief Executive of the Civil Service, John Manzoni said:

I am incredibly excited to see the National Leadership Centre launch. Those involved will learn from the very best and develop a fantastic network offering knowledge sharing and peer support.

The development of our senior leaders will help them drive improvement in the UK’s crucial services the public use everyday.

Kier Pritchard, Chief Constable of Wiltshire Police, who is participating on the programme said:

Being part of the first group of public sector leaders to take part in the programme is hugely exciting. Having the chance to learn from world leaders and meet those in similar roles across the system will no doubt help in developing the leadership skills I use every day.

The programme aims to improve the way public sector leaders operate together which of course will improve the service we provide to the public. It is a privilege to take up this opportunity.

Dame Sara Thornton DBE QPM, the Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner, was announced today as Chair of the NLC’s new Advisory Board.

Dame Sara Thornton said:

The National Leadership Centre provides a unique opportunity to support cross sector leadership in public service, through its leadership programme, networking and research. It is a privilege to have been appointed as Chair to help shape the Centre’s strategic direction.

I look forward to working with leaders across a variety of sectors in order to ensure our public service continues to thrive and serve the public in the best way possible.