Exceptional Non-Executive Director (NED) Programme
The Exceptional NED training programme enables business executives to gain skills & knowledge to become an effective Non-Executive Director.
Case Studies Host a NED Placement Download our brochure
This programme has been uniquely designed for individuals with experience at executive level who are looking to further develop their skills through a blend of workshop sessions and a 3-month placement as a NED at a high-growth SME.
Programme Content
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What makes an exceptional NED
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Understanding of legal responsibilities
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Situational leadership
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Financial literacy for NEDs
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Best practice boards
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The power of habit change
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An insight into investment panel decision making processes
Programme Structure
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2 days face-to-face on University of Leeds campus
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3 month placement with a high growth SME
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Interactive webinar
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1 day face-to-face on University of Leeds campus
Programme Overview
Research shows that Exceptional NEDs need to be independent, have the right balance of challenge and support, be excellent communicators, and have a deep understanding of business. Through this programme, aspiring NEDs will have the opportunity to increase their expertise in these softer skills, whilst honing business knowledge and gaining a better understanding of their professional responsibilities. These aspects will be covered in a two day workshop taught by experienced professionals and a range of guest speakers.
Participants will then be allocated a placement within a high-growth SME for three months (to attend a minimum of three board meetings).
Halfway through this experience, the group will reconvene for an online webinar to discuss how attitudes and mindsets can alter the NED role.
The programme culminates in a one day workshop during which participants will have the opportunity to reflect on the experience so far, as well as learn about the variety of NED roles available. This day will include a session with representatives from an investment firm discussing how investment decisions are made.
On completion of the programme, participants will be awarded a certificate and the opportunity to apply to join the national NED network.
Upcoming Cohorts
February 2026
- Day 1 & 2: Wednesday 11th & 12th February 2026
- Webinar: Tuesday 17th March 2026
- Day 3: Thursday 4th June 2026
Register here
September 2026
- Day 1 & 2: Wednesday 9th & 10th September 2026
- Webinar: Wednesday 21st October 2026
- Day 3: Thursday 28th January 2027
Register here
Price: £1500. Limited places are available per cohort.
Host a NED placement
As part of our Non-Executive Director (NED) training programme, we have an opportunity for SME businesses to benefit from hosting a 3-month NED placement on their board of directors. Find out more here
Testimonials
It certainly was a great investment of time and money and I can highly recommend for anyone considering a transition into the role of the non-executive director, or indeed those that have already made the move.
Programme Delegate, Colin Day, Founder & Director of Magnetic North Associates Ltd
I have nothing but praise for our delegate as he was the perfect match for us. We’re always keen to be challenged and hear ideas and he shared some great thinking and challenges to us in the meetings. We all enjoyed having him round and learnt a lot. Thank you so much for the opportunity, it was a pleasure to have him work with us
Placement Host, Stephanie Davies, CEO of Laughology Limited
Meet our Programme Facilitator
Lily Newman - Managing Director, Morgan James Consulting
Lily has been a BBC Journalist and Presenter, a Brand Director, a Non-Executive Director, a Leadership Consultant for DDA International, a Behavioural Strategist and Communication Consultant, and is the MD of Morgan James Consulting Ltd, a leadership consultancy that she launched in 2001.
She also delivers executive coaching programmes and highly interactive workshops in leadership, behavioural and cultural change, communications, brand and people management, and presentation skills for a wide range of clients, from start-ups to global businesses.
Contact the team
If you would like more information, please contact our dedicated team by emailing ExecEd@leeds.ac.uk
Or alternatively contact our Business Development Officer, Alison Cameron on 07935 342227