Apply for Diversifying Leadership

It’s the final week to apply for a funded place on Diversifying Leadership, the development programme for early career academics and professional services colleagues from Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) backgrounds.

Diversifying Leadership was developed by Advance HE in direct response to the under-representation of leaders from BAME backgrounds in UK higher education. The University funds up to five places on the national programme each year.

It’s a blended learning programme, with a mix of online and in-person sessions based around a regional cohort, offering a safe and encouraging environment to share experiences and learn from others.

Applications are welcomed from staff up to, and including, Associate Professor/ Grade 8, who are considering taking their first steps into a leadership role.

'A great programme'

Shan Shen, Technical Head of the CINN Research Facility, took part in the Diversifying Leadership in 2022. Here, she shares her experiences of the programme and what she learned.

What spurred you to sign up for Diversifying Leadership?

I wanted to get out of my comfort zone as a technical specialist and develop my career further.

Can you tell us what happens on the programme and what people can expect if they take part?

There are two face-to-face modules and three online modules which cover leadership skills, specially designed for BAME professionals working in the higher UK education.

The programme also invites different BAME leaders to talk about their leadership stories which are very encouraging.

What would you say to a colleague who is thinking of taking part?

It was a great programme. It taught us many useful leadership skills that are particularly relevant to our experiences as BAME professionals, and gave us a lot of opportunities to reflect on ourselves.

And they provided nice food for the face-to-face modules, which is bonus!

What’s been the biggest impact it’s had on you and your career?

The biggest impact on me is now I know how to look at the positive sides about being a professional from a BAME background and have more confidence in pursuing a leadership role.

How to apply

Visit the People Development pages on the Staff Portal for full details, including relevant criteria, FAQs, and the application form.

Applications close on Friday 18 August.

If you have any questions, or would like to speak to a previous participant on the programme, contact peopledevelopment@reading.ac.uk.