As many businesses prepare for 2025 and beyond, leadership development is firmly in the spotlight.

A recent report by People Management reveals that leadership development will be the top priority for HR in 2025, due to its critical role in addressing workplace challenges.

Aberdeen-based consultancy, Align People HR is responding to this need with its Life Long Leadership™ (L³) program, designed to help organisations develop future-ready leaders.

Why leadership development is key

There is a growing demand for skilled leadership amid workplace shifts, including hybrid working models and heightened employee expectations. HR professionals recognise that effective leadership is crucial for driving engagement, retention, and team performance. However, many organisations still face gaps in leadership capability.

The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) has previously reported that only 20% of UK managers see themselves as purposeful leaders. This gap in self-confidence often translates into broader organisational challenges such as decreased job satisfaction, lower employee engagement, and higher turnover rates. Align People HR’s L³ program is tailored to address these pain points, equipping managers with essential skills to lead effectively and create a positive organisational culture.

About the L³ program

Align People HR’s Life Long Leadership™ (L³) program is a six-month course designed specifically for managers in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The program combines virtual group sessions, personalised one-to-one coaching, and online reflective activities to create a holistic learning experience. Participants explore their individual leadership styles, develop tools for building trust, and learn strategies to influence and inspire their teams.

Alison Paton, managing director of Align People HR, said, “L³ was created to address the unique challenges faced by people managers, particularly those transitioning from technical roles to leadership positions. It’s about building not only effective leaders but also creating a culture where employees feel engaged and valued.

"This program is grounded in our company values of lifelong learning and inclusivity.”

Developed in partnership with Seren Trewavas, a chartered organisational psychologist and executive coach, the program reflects best practices in leadership development. Seren’s expertise ensures the course content is relevant, practical, and impactful.

She commented: “The program offers a blend of learning approaches to suit different needs. By focusing on personal reflection and actionable strategies, participants can bring meaningful change to their teams and organisations.”

A solution for SMEs

The L³ program has already attracted participants from industries such as energy, technology and manufacturing, demonstrating its relevance across sectors. With SMEs often facing unique challenges in resource allocation and talent retention, the program provides a scalable solution to enhance leadership capabilities without the need for extensive in-house resources.

Looking ahead to February 2025

As businesses gear up for 2025, Align People HR’s L³ program offers an opportunity to invest in leadership development that drives long-term success. With the next cohort launching in March 2025, organisations are encouraged to reflect on how leadership impacts their teams and overall business outcomes.

For more information about the program or to secure a spot in the upcoming cohort, email Alison Paton at alison.paton@alignpeoplehr.com