projects
Innovation Places Leadership Academy - Cohort 1
The first Innovation Places Leadership Academy cohort ran from October 2021 to July 2023 with leaders from Aberdeen, Portsmouth and Hull.
Participants spent time with peers facing similar challenges to their own, with the objective of becoming more aligned around economic and investment strategies for their areas - and becoming empowered to implement them.
Through a series of immersive regional gatherings, the cohort benefitted from:
- Input from globally recognised experts in systems leadership, scale up-support and inclusive innovation;
- A bespoke diagnostic of their local innovation ecosystem, drawing on insights from our City Pathways Typologies data tool;
- Walking tours with candid insights on each participating city's innovation assets and strategic developments;
- Opportunities to convene and mobilise wider stakeholders through VIP dinners and networking events;
- Action learning and 1-2-1 coaching to promote reflection and personal development;
- International networking and inspiration by attending the Urban Futures Global Summit in Stuttgart.
Hear from the cohort
“Through IPLA I have really gained a deeper understanding of my personal agency and grown in personal resilience and mindset to navigate change.”Louise Smith, Director – Aura Innovation Centre, University of Hull
Louise Smith, Director, Aura University of Hull
“It was so reassuring to hear that others are grappling with similar challenges and discovering different approaches to common problems. I found the masterclasses first rate and would highly recommend the programme to other place leaders.”Derek Shaw, Director of Innovation and Place, Scottish Enterprise
Jennifer Craw, CEO, Opportunity North East
“I appreciated the insights and knowledge from others on the programme; I realised that many of the opportunities and challenges are the same. The opportunity to share experiences, discuss issues and challenges and get input from other place leaders was invaluable.”Jane Lamer, Head of Economic Development and Skills, Portsmouth City Council
Read more from the cohort
Learn more about Cohort 2.
Learn more about the Innovation Places Leadership Academy.
