Future editorial managers are to unite for intensive NCTJ leadership training programme

Some of the brightest and best talent in the journalism industry will come together for the NCTJ’s first residential leadership programme aimed at developing the editorial leaders of the future.

The inaugural training scheme is part of the NCTJ’s Leadership for Journalists initiative to help editorial managers succeed in a complex and ever-changing environment.

The residential programme, which takes place in September and October, has been created by journalists for journalists and will reflect the unique challenges in the industry.

Across two blocks of two-day intensive in-person training in Hertfordshire and Manchester, the group will learn new skills and develop self-knowledge to give them the confidence to thrive in their day-to-day roles and to pursue senior leadership positions.

At the end of the programme, delegates will receive a certificate from the NCTJ’s Journalism Skills Academy to show they have completed the course, which will offer a gateway to the NCTJ leadership qualification due to launch later this year.

Laura Adams, head of the NCTJ’s Journalism Skills Academy, said: “We are excited to be running this residential course for some of the most talented editorial leaders in the industry.

“Leadership skills are vital for the success of any business and particularly so in an industry which continues to evolve at breakneck speed.

“Leading teams through change is hugely challenging so in-depth training is important to ensure all leaders – particularly early-career or aspiring leaders – are equipped with the skills and knowledge to do this effectively.

“At an individual level, members of this cohort will develop their own abilities and expertise, allowing them to reach their full potential and to meet their personal ambitions.

“These are the editorial leaders who will shape the future of the industry and it is important they receive investment in training to set them up for success.”

The residential course, comprising of two blocks including an evening dinner and overnight stay, will be delivered by industry and training professionals and will include discussion and group tasks. Guest speakers will also be invited to share their experiences of leadership.

In the first block, taking place in Hertfordshire, delegates will gain knowledge and insight into the role of the manager and will learn what it takes to be a great leader and how this affects organisational culture and goals. They will develop an understanding of their own leadership style and abilities and how this impacts the culture of the newsroom.

The second block in Manchester will focus on how this knowledge and insight into leadership translates into the day-to-day, covering topics such as change management, strategy, innovation and workplace wellbeing.

The NCTJ’s leadership training initiative began last month with a series of virtual short courses on topics of value to editorial leaders, including communication, motivating the team, leading with confidence, time management and understanding imposter syndrome.

Click here more information and to book a place on the leadership residential programme.