

Social Purpose Leadership Program
For many of us, the work we do and the leadership roles we play, are more than just a job. We want to be the best organisational leaders we can be, but we are committed, more broadly, to using our professional competencies to help make the world better in some way. We are living through a period when the institutions that have supported a healthy economy and society, and the thinking that formed them, appear to be unravelling around us. What does this ask of us as leaders? Our organisations are not operating in a vacuum, but in complex and unpredictable contexts. Do we continue doing what we've always done, or do these times ask us to lead differently? I believe the answer is 'yes', we need to lead differently.
This Program brings together two dimensions of effective leadership in these times. The first is good leadership within our organisations. The second is about understanding the leadership implications of the rapidly evolving social and economic environment within which we are working and living, and what it asks of us as people of influence. The SPL Program will therefore invite you to explore not only what you need to do to improve your leadership effectiveness, but to ask the deeper question, "Who do you choose to be?". Together, these dimensions help us understand the conditions that ensure organisational health and success, and inspire confidence in ourselves and our leadership integrity.
This program has been one of the most challenging and most rewarding professional development experiences I have participated in. I have been asked to reflect, to slow down, think, to re-commit to purpose and try different paths. It has started a fascinating conversation about leadership and influence and the importance of curiosity.
Martin Gill, Former CEO Borough of Queensliff
The intimate size meant there was no hiding behind theoretical concepts of leadership, but rather an opportunity to be vulnerable with other leaders. Col was an amazing facilitator and the format of the course was fantastic - from the 3 night retreat to the communication I had with Col and other participants. I’m walking away from the course with a stronger sense of self, a stronger sense of my leadership style, a renewed optimism for the social purpose sector and a lifelong expansion of my professional and personal networks. Highly recommended!"
Zach Iaali, CFO Australian Volunteers International
Program details
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Group size of 8
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Books (x3): Patrick Lencioni's The Advantage, Frederic Laloux's Reinventing Organizations, and Margaret Wheatley's Who Do We Choose to Be?
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Dates listed are for two programs which will run in parallel in 2027.
All sessions will be hosted at The Pines (Barwon Heads)
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Cost: $7000 (ex GST) all inclusive (sessions, catering, accommodation, books and materials).
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$1000 deposit to secure your spot
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Balance due 1st Feb 2027
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A subsidised spot is available in each Program for leaders who don't have an organisation to support their participation. If you are interested, please reach out.
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Title | Content | Program 1 dates | Program 2 dates |
|---|---|---|---|
Session 1 | Intros and story telling | Tues 16th Feb, 3pm - 7pm | Wed 24th Feb, 3pm - 7pm |
Retreat |
| Mon 1st Mar 5pm - Thurs 4th Mar 10am | Mon 15th Mar 5pm - Wed 17th Mar 8pm |
Session 2 | Case Clinic 1 | Tues 4th May, 3pm - 7pm | Wed 5th May, 3pm - 7pm |
Session 3 | Case Clinic 2 | Tues 1st June, 3pm - 7pm | Wed 2nd June, 3pm - 7pm |
Session 4 | Case Clinic 3 | Tues 6th July, 3pm - 7pm | Wed 7th July, 3pm - 7pm |
Session 5 | Case Clinic 4 | Tues 3rd Aug, 3pm - 7pm | Wed 4th Aug, 3pm - 7pm |
Session 6 | Review and next steps | Tues 7th Sept, 3pm - 7pm | Wed 8th Sept, 3pm - 7pm |
Expression of interest
If you are interested to find out more or register, send me an email.