Advanced Public Sector Policy, Strategy and Leadership (8-days)

This course is based on the three pillars of the UK Civil Service Policy Profession skills framework: Strategy, Politics and Delivery. It will provide insight and understanding to create and plan the delivery of hugely challenging Public Sector policies successfully. It analyses the many, and often conflicting strategic priorities within the public sector, and how to reach a compromise, so that a cohesive and coherent policy can be created and implemented. We discuss the fundamental requirements of a structured, strategic planning process. However, it is essential to remember that strategic planning takes places in a wider political context, which is often in a constant state of flux, and subject to a plethora of interests and influences, so such strategy creation cannot be carried out in isolation. Understanding, appreciation and consultation of stakeholders is essential to the successful outcome of a policy, so that we consider in depth how to achieve this. This course also gives deep insight into the complex and interrelated factors which help or hinder the successful implementation of Public Sector policy. Many Public Sector policies do not deliver their intended outcomes. They often go over budget; are extraordinarily late; have unintended consequences; do not achieve their desired level of service; are irrelevant; are not wanted or just fizzle out. The course provides understanding of how and why public sector strategy can work. It provides tools, techniques and templates on how to understand needs and requirements, and then manage influences and interests, to ensure successful policy outcomes. It focuses on how to create, implement, evaluate and adjust policy as it is progresses. We analyse the key factors required for successful implementation at the global, national and local levels. Risks and crises are ever-present in the political arena and we discuss how to analyse, anticipate, evaluate and react to these and other specific crises which might arise at any time and ensure they do not deflect from providing the quality services expected and required.

This course also offers a comprehensive exploration of impactful leadership. It begins with identifying key characteristics of effective leaders, examining behaviors that build credibility, and comparing different leadership styles through real-world benchmarks. The programme then delves into essential traits and mindsets that enable leaders to navigate complex environments, emphasizing mindset development and cognitive flexibility for adapting behavior across various contexts. Finally, it focuses on self-regulation strategies, helping leaders to manage triggers, maintain stability, and stay focused and clear under pressure, ensuring confident and consistent leadership.