Program Overview

Rising Stars Development Programme

The Rising Stars Development Programme is a six-session, in-person leadership development course designed to accelerate the growth of early-career professionals and aspiring future leaders. It is delivered in partnership between the University of Edinburgh Business School and the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce.

Programme Overview

This programme combines academic expertise, practical workshops, and insights from senior business leaders to support businesses in nurturing emerging talent and strengthening their leadership pipeline.

Who Should Apply

This programme is ideal for:

• Early-career professionals preparing to step into leadership roles.
• Identified "rising stars" within organisations.
• Ambitious individuals seeking to enhance their professional toolkit, business acumen, and personal brand.

What Participants Will Gain

Participants will:

• Develop strategic thinking skills using AI and innovation tools.
• Strengthen emotional intelligence and resilience.
• Gain practical approaches to leading high-performing teams.
• Enhance communication and presentation skills.
• Build a personal leadership brand to support career progression.
• Expand their professional network across sectors.

For Employers: Invest in Your Future Leaders

By enrolling employees, organisations can:

• Strengthen succession planning.
• Retain and engage top talent.
• Support a culture of continuous learning.
• Build leadership capacity across Edinburgh's business community.

Key Dates & Sessions

All sessions are in-person at the Edinburgh Futures Institute, University of Edinburgh, running from 09:00 – 12:15. Session | Theme | Date
---|---|---
1 | Beyond gut feel – AI-enhanced strategic thinking | 22 January 2026
2 | Emotional intelligence & self-management | 5 February 2026
3 | Leadership & team dynamics | 19 February 2026
4 | Effective communication & presentation skills | 5 March 2026
5 | Developing your leadership / personal branding roadmap | 19 March 2026
6 | Innovation & problem solving | 2 April 2026

Programme Fee

• Member rate: £1,500 + VAT
• Non-member rate: £1,700 + VAT

Registration Deadline

8 January 2026

Location

Edinburgh Futures Institute
1 Lauriston Place
Edinburgh
EH3 9EF

Cancellation Policy

• Full refund available if cancellation is made 28 days or more before the programme start date.
• No refund for cancellations received less than 28 days before the start date.
• Substitutions permitted at no extra cost if arranged 14 days or more before the programme begins.
• Refunds cannot be offered for missed individual sessions.