15/05/2026
Collaboration continues to play an increasingly important role in supporting businesses across the South East as organisations face growing challenges around talent development, competitiveness, workforce retention, and leadership capability. Recognising the value of regional partnerships, Carlow Kilkenny Skillnet and Waterford Chamber Skillnet Skillnet continue to work together to deliver impactful training and development initiatives that respond directly to the evolving needs of businesses across the region.
One example of this collaborative approach is the launch of our new ESF+ Executive Leadership Programme, developed in response to a growing leadership skills gap identified by employers throughout the South East. The programme is designed to support senior managers, business owners, emerging leaders, and executives in developing the strategic leadership capabilities needed to drive business growth, innovation, and organisational resilience.
This ESF+ Executive Leadership Programme will support senior managers, business owners, emerging executives, and high-potential leaders with practical leadership tools, strategic insight, and peer-to-peer learning opportunities tailored specifically to the realities facing organisations in the South East.
Speaking about the launch, Ashling Ward Network Manager of Carlow Kilkenny Skillnet said “Businesses across the South East are telling us clearly that leadership capability is now one of the most critical factors in driving growth, innovation, and resilience. This programme has been designed to equip leaders with the skills, confidence, and strategic thinking needed to lead effectively in a rapidly changing environment.”
The programme will focus on key areas including:
🟢Strategic leadership and decision-making
🟢Leading organisational change
🟢High-performance team development
🟢Communication and stakeholder engagement
🟢Innovation and growth strategy
🟢Emotional intelligence and resilient leadership
🟢Talent development and succession planning
Participants will benefit from expert-led workshops, executive coaching, collaborative learning, and real-world business application. The programme is aimed at supporting both indigenous SMEs and larger organisations seeking to strengthen leadership pipelines and future-proof their businesses.
The launch aligns with broader regional ambitions to enhance competitiveness, productivity, and talent development across the South East economy.
Ashling added: “Investing in leadership development is investing in the long-term sustainability of our regional economy. Strong leadership has a direct impact on employee engagement, innovation, and business performance, and we are committed to helping companies build those capabilities locally.”
Applications for the Executive Leadership Programme are now open, with places expected to be in high demand.
For more information please email [email protected]
