About the programme
Programme purpose
The Women’s Leadership Programme is designed to empower women in local government across the island of Ireland to unlock their potential, build confidence, and inspire impactful leadership.
Why it is essential
Women remain under-represented at senior levels in local government, and targeted, high-quality leadership development is critical to addressing structural, and cultural based barriers to progression.
What problem it solves
The programme tackles the leadership gap by supporting females – giving them access to tailored development, cross-border networks, and opportunities to build strategic leadership capability.
How it works
The programme is delivered through a structured blend of online learning and in-person residentials, designed to fit around the demands of mid-management roles in local government.
The Women’s Leadership Programme supports 180 participants across six cohorts, drawn from 36 local authorities on the island of Ireland, creating a strong all-island peer network.
Participants engage in facilitated leadership development sessions, peer-led learning, and practical application of learning to real workplace challenges.
The programme includes residential elements that deepen learning, build confidence and strengthen relationships across councils. Each cohort concludes with an end-of-programme conference that brings participants together to share learning, celebrate progress and reinforce leadership ambition.
Your story
“The WLP provided an invaluable pathway and opportunity to develop leadership skills.
"Through participation, I gained inspiration and creativity from working with others across different local authorities, departments, perspectives and locations – facilitating networking and sharing of best practice that otherwise I am unlikely to have had the opportunity or time to avail of.
“The programme enhanced my skills in leadership, particularly around influencing, building confidence, motivation and creativity, problem-solving and communication skills.
“It was an opportunity to reflect professionally on my leadership journey to date, where I was and wanted to be. On the basis of that reflection, and confidence built through participation in the programme, I applied for and was offered a Grade 8 post.”
Participant
The Impact
Prior to the Programme
82% of respondents did not have contacts with colleagues across the border.
After the Programme
97% of respondents had contacths with colleagues from other local authorities.
57% of which were contacts in cross border local authorities.
Meet the Team
Emma Kennedy
Jessica Crisp