Preparing for CEO programme cover

Launched in 2018, this programme funded by the Department for Education is aimed specifically at experienced Further Education leaders who are looking to step up to the role of CEO in the next 1-2 years.

It is designed to help those preparing to take on the role of CEO to be able to articulate purpose and set vision, think strategically in the short to medium and for the long term. Over 130 participants have taken part already and more than 25 of these delegates have already been promoted to the role of CEO within the FE sector.

By the end of the programme, participants will be able to work with a complex set of internal and external stakeholders, develop and lead high performing teams, manage performance with strong commercial acumen, and have a deep commitment to delivering public value.

Key benefits

Participants benefit from having the knowledge and confidence to:

  • become the Chief Accounting Officer – leading financial security
  • direct the educational nature of the college; creating and leading a clear vision
  • take responsibility for staff and build high performing teams
  • respond to key trends within the FE and training sector
  • orchestrate the values, culture and organisational alignment of the college
  • forge deeper and broader networks within the FE and training sector
  • drive excellence in governance and working collaboratively with the Board
  • transition to the role of principal/CEO in the next 1-2 years.

Richard Atkins, former FE Commissioner, highlighted attendance on the ETF Leadership courses as one of his 10 recommendations for effective college leadership. He has stated that colleges should, “Ensure that your Chair, Principal/CEO and FD attend the relevant ETF leadership programmes. Feedback from these programmes is overwhelmingly positive.”

Programme content

The programme is a mix of strategic leadership and technical development and key themes include:

  • adaptive leadership
  • understanding your leadership style
  • networking
  • decision making and ethics
  • reputation
  • culture and values
  • working collaboratively with stakeholders and governance board
  • resilience
  • stepping up to the role of Principal/CEO
  • understanding finance / possessing business acumen.

Testimonials

“The programme has been incredibly insightful and inspiring with every element bringing forth new ways of thinking about leadership. This course will leave a lasting positive impact.”

Helen Thomas, Principal, Greater Brighton Metropolitan College

“The programme was excellent. I personally enjoyed being taken out of my comfort zone and challenged in ways that I could never have imagined.”

Chris Todd, Principal and Chief Executive, Derwentside College

“I really feel that I have started on a very exciting new journey. it’s been very thought provoking.”

Chris Mclean, Principal, Milton College

 


To find out more, please contact leadership@etfoundation.co.uk