I posted earlier this week about my reflections from my work on the JLR programme in November. What I didn't mention, was that in amongst that I managed to squeeze in 5 days at Roffey Park Institute to facilitate Module 2 with Cohort 5 of the Harsco Environmental HE Connect programme.

Although this was the fifth programme, working closely with Andrew Needham, we continued to adapt and develop the module. The aim is always to challenge and support the participants to stretch themselves, and most importantly, to consider how they can raise the bar for their own leadership practice in the business.

As all the cohorts have, the group stepped up to the challenge. In particular, there was a huge level of commitment to take the outcomes from a day spent working though the Design Thinking methodology back to their local teams.

A big part of the programme is building the connections across a diverse group of managers from different parts of the globe. Claire Young plays a big part in this, as the social and logistical glue for each cohort. I'm still not quite sure how it happened, but the Wednesday night on Module 2 has now become a theme night... this time the group had chosen a 70's theme. It was great to see some brilliant costumes for the evening, as ever well hosted by Roffey Park Venue.

I continue to push myself with mind maps of each module - this time featuring a dragon, skier, scales, parachutes, cats, smelly fish and a plate of linguine.... don't ask.

The programme continues to receive superb support from the SLT, (especially Karen Renwick), who joined in person and remotely to experience the group's final 'presentation' of their learning and commitments. This was opened by one of the participants describing the programme as 'life changing'.... a very proud moment for everyone associated with the programme!

We are currently planning 3 cohorts for 2025 - looking forward to continuing the adventure. I need to buy some more felt tip pens for the mind maps!