The Diversifying Leadership programme is designed to support early-career academics, professional services staff, lecturers, and senior lecturers from Black, Asian, and minority ethnic backgrounds who are taking their first steps into leadership roles. It is specifically designed for those who are new to leadership positions in higher education or have encountered structural barriers to advancement within the sector (from Grade 7 and above).
The Diversifying Leadership (DL) programme is an established programme that aligns with the following themes:
- Power and influence
- Demystifying leadership
- Cultural identity and cultural capital
Participants will explore concepts such as ‘authentic leadership’, allowing the self-identity of their own leadership style and role as a leader to emerge, as well as considering their motivation and influences. Featuring stories from high-profile HE leaders, the programme is designed to provide a safe environment in which to discuss issues and personal narratives relating to lived experiences of working within HE. As a result, participants build confidence, feel empowered and expand their professional strengths.
The programme is structured in a hybrid format, combining both online and face-to-face components. It’s delivered over four months comprising five modules of which two will be held face-to-face, alongside related asynchronous work.
Participants will engage in:
- Online modules and face-to-face workshops featuring Leadership Insight speakers from the HE sector
- Approximately two hours of pre or post-session reflective activities
- Two facilitated action learning sets
- Working with a sponsor
Diversifying Leadership and the University of Strathclyde
The University of Strathclyde is offering five staff members to join the DL 29 North-Leeds cohort, which will be a mix of hybrid and face-to-face sessions.
Diversifying Leadership 29 North Cohort - Leeds (2027) Programme Dates:
|
Date |
Activity |
Time |
Format |
|
TBC |
Orientation Webinar |
10:00-11:30 |
Online |
|
3 February 2027 |
Module 1 |
09:45-16:00 |
Face-to-face |
|
26 February 2027 |
Module 2 |
09:15-15:00 |
Online |
|
19 March 2027 |
Module 3 |
09:15-15:00 |
Online |
|
21 April 2027 |
Module 4 |
09:45-16:00 |
Face-to-face |
|
21 May 2027 |
Module 5 |
09:15-15:00 |
Online |
Sponsors
As part of the programme, participants are required to secure a sponsor from within their institution who will support them during the programme and potentially beyond.
Role of a Sponsor
Sponsorship is a special kind of relationship in which a more senior colleague provides structured support which may include:
- creating research productivity;
- career advice & guidance;
- navigate internal politics & structures; and
- provides access to projects
The Sponsor also uses their influence with senior members of staff to advocate for the participant. The time commitment will be negotiated between the sponsor and the participant.
If you are struggling to identify a suitable sponsor, please contact the Equality & Diversity Office equality@strath.ac.uk.
How to apply
To apply, download the Diversifying Leadership Strathclyde 2026-27 criteria and complete the Diversifying Leadership Strathclyde application 2026-27.docx.
Please submit your application by email to equality@strath.ac.uk by 1st December 2026.