A new pilot training programme has been launched for managers working in the Finance, Operations and ICT group at Imperial.

The ‘LEAP’ programme, ‘Lead – Engage – Apply – Perform’, is a five day programme for line managers focussed on how to optimise talent, communicate well, collaborate across teams and champion change.  The training reflects Imperial Expectations; seven statements that shape the behaviour of all Imperial staff.  Trainees will be supported by individual coaching, self-assessment, appraisals, as well as master classes covering specific areas including performance management and equality and diversity.

The Finance, Operations and ICT group report in to Muir Sanderson, the College’s Chief Financial Officer. He said:

“Imperial’s 2015 -2020 strategy commits us to provide professional support for all of our staff and students and build a supportive, inclusive and highly motivated staff community. We need excellence in management to deliver these commitments. It is easy at Imperial to focus on the outstanding technical skills of our academics, staff and students and lose sight of our managers’ most important task: leading, motivating and empowering their teams to deliver excellence in all that we do. The LEAP programme is designed to support our managers in Finance, Operations and ICT in delivering this crucial responsibility”

Speaking after attending the launch event, member of the first cohort Sally Jensen, Head of Operations (Events), said:

“I am looking forward to the training; I’m hoping it will build on my existing skills and provide support meeting some of the challenges I face in my day to day work leading Imperial’s event delivery team”

The training has been designed to meet the specific needs of the Finance, Operations and ICT group, responding to input from the last staff survey and recent internal consultation.  Feedback has been received from a cross-section of staff, and the programme can be tailored to meet the specific needs of participants.  

The programme has been produced by business psychologists Carter Corson in collaboration with senior managers in the group and the Learning and Development Centre at Imperial. It has been designed to complement the College’s existing training provision.