Aspiring Directors Programme

Step into executive leadership with clarity, credibility, and intent

This practical programme is designed for NHS leaders looking to step into their first executive director role. Spanning six full-day, in-person modules, the course blends the governance and corporate expectations of board-level leadership with personal development and behavioural impact, to support participants to grow their strategic influence and lead with confidence in today’s complex NHS environment. 

Key takeaways

1. Deepen your understanding of NHS board governance and executive accountability.
2. Develop your strategic influence, leadership presence and personal impact.
3. Strengthen your ability to work effectively across systems and teams.
4. Explore how to navigate your teams through times of change.
5. Gain personalised insight through 360-degree feedback and 1:1 coaching.
6. Build trusted peer relationships with fellow aspiring directors.

Taking on an executive director role is a significant step — one that requires not just portfolio knowledge, but strategic insight, emotional intelligence and a clear grasp of the corporate director responsibilities involved.

This programme gives aspiring directors the opportunity to grow their readiness in a safe, focused space — building knowledge, relationships and behaviours that support high-impact leadership from the outset.

Six in-person modules and includes a mix of expert input, interactive learning, and individual reflection:

1. Introduction and NHS context (Friday 06 November 2026)
2. Understanding board governance and how to be effective (Friday 04 December 2026)
3. Inclusive, high-performing teams and decision-making (Friday 15 January 2027)
4. Effective meetings (Friday 19 February 2027)
5. Strategic influence and leading though change (Friday 19 March 2027)
6. Preparing to enter the board arena (Friday 23 April 2027)

Alongside the training days, you’ll also benefit from:

• A 360-degree feedback report, with 1:1 facilitated feedback.
• Three personal coaching sessions with an experienced coach.
• Reflective journaling to support your self-awareness and growth.
• Structured opportunities to connect and share learning with your cohort.

This is a six-day in-person programme delivered between November 2026 and April 2027. Delegates are expected to attend all six training days and complete the 360-degree feedback tool and coaching sessions as part of the programme. 

Estimated timings for each day are 9:30am to 4:00pm (subject to change).

This training is open to Members and Non-Members of The NHS Alliance.

NHS Alliance Member: £3,387 (ex VAT) | £4,064.40 (incl. VAT)
Non-Member: £5,083 (ex VAT) | £6,099.60 (incl. VAT)

You will need to provide a purchase order number at booking to confirm your place on this course. Card payments are also accepted. 

Follow the ‘Book now’ link at the top of this page to book your place. You will need to create an account if you have not already done so.

• Individuals who are looking to apply for their first executive director role in the next one to two years.