Applications now open for FWB’s 2026 Executive Leadership Programme

FWB, in partnership with the University of Edinburgh Business School, is delighted to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 Executive Leadership Programme (ELP). Now entering its sixth year, the programme builds on the success of FWB’s Executive Women in Leadership and Non‑Executive Development Programmes, which collectively have supported more than 600 professionals in advancing their careers.

Designed for senior managers ready to take the next step in their leadership journey, the ELP equips participants with the tools, frameworks, and confidence to accelerate their development. Delivered in person through six intensive 4‑hour sessions across three months, the programme combines academic expertise with the real-world insights of top UK executives and non-executive leaders.

A Programme Built Around Your Leadership Goals

The Executive Leadership Programme is tailored to support leaders across private, public, and non-profit sectors. Each participant is encouraged to build a personalised development plan aligned to their own leadership ambitions, supported through:

• Enhanced understanding of personal leadership style
• Identification of competency gaps and strategies for growth
• Access to practical tools and evidence‑based frameworks
• Exposure to candid career insights from experienced C‑Suite leaders

Each session includes case studies, discussion-based learning, and practical exercises designed to translate insight into action. Sessions are led jointly by University of Edinburgh academics and senior leaders—such as CEOs, Chairs, and Chief People Officers—who speak openly about the challenges and successes that have shaped their careers.

Developing Leaders for a Changing World

Each year, the programme content is refreshed in collaboration with leading academics and top UK executives to reflect the evolving demands of modern leadership. The 2026 programme will cover:

• Digital Transformation
• High Performance Teams
• Enterprise Leadership
• Communication, Influence and Organisational Politics
• Developing Strategy and Implementing Change
• How to Lead Successfully in a Polycrisis

The full programme will be published in February 2026. Until then, the 2025 brochure is available to download for an overview of the course structure and approach. Click here to be directed to download the 2026 programme brochure.

Programme Benefits

Participants can expect to leave the programme with:

• Targeted preparation for senior and board-level leadership
• A clear understanding of their leadership strengths and development areas
• Increased strategic capability and executive decision-making confidence
• Practical tools to apply immediately in their organisations
• Insights from a diverse range of influential UK business leaders
• A strong cross-sector network of senior professionals

Who Should Apply?

The programme is ideal for:

• Senior managers with the potential to progress to board-level roles
• Leaders seeking to strengthen their strategic and organisational impact
• Professionals wanting to enhance their executive skill set
• Those interested in developing a high-impact cross-industry network
• Individuals seeking practical, actionable insight into board dynamics and modern leadership

Apply Now

Applications for the 2026 Executive Leadership Programme are now open, and you can submit yours directly through our website using the Apply Now button here.

All applications are reviewed by our programme team. In some cases, applicants may be invited to a follow‑up conversation to help assess suitability for the course and ensure the programme aligns with their leadership goals.