You Shouldn't Have to Choose Between
Career and Family.
Leadership development for working parents — without sacrificing family life. A 9-month award-winning programme helping parents in management progress their careers, on their own terms.
Everything you need to progress your career — on your terms
Peer community
Non-judgmental peers who share your ambitions and understand the realities of combining parenting and career progression.
Dedicated senior mentor
A senior leader who has successfully balanced a high-profile career with children — providing fresh perspectives.
Tangible career progression
World-class training to help you secure promotions, negotiate flexible working, and build sustainable leadership habits.
Time to think
Protected space to clarify what you want from your career and family life — and a concrete plan to get there.
Practical problem-solving
Tools and frameworks for workload challenges, imposter syndrome, performance conversations, and more.
Be part of a movement
Join hundreds of working parents actively changing the culture for future generations.
Two flexible formats. One transformative programme.
The Fellowship runs for 9 months, averaging just over half a day per month including pre-work and up to 5 mentor meetings. Choose the format that works for you.
Online Only
10 x 2-hour sessions delivered entirely online. Perfect for international Fellows or anyone who needs maximum scheduling flexibility. All the same content, community, and coaching — zero commuting.
Worldwide · Most flexibleBlended Learning
A mix of online sessions and face-to-face workshops in London (Manchester or Birmingham if demand supports it). In-person connection combined with online convenience.
UK Only · Face to face connectionCould this be for you?
- ✓ You are a parent (children aged 0–18, including during parental leave)
- ✓ You're passionate about continuing to develop your career
- ✓ You're in a management or leadership role (current or recent)
- ✓ You can commit around half a day per month over 9 months
- ✓ You're willing to support other parents on the programme
- ✓ You are willing to contribute, engage and commit
Ready to apply for the January 2027 cohort?
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis to give you enough time to secure employer funding. The process is quick and you can save your progress as you go.
Deadline: 17 November 2027 · Questions? Email office@leadersplus.org
May 2026 Cohort — Provisional Dates
All dates are provisional and subject to change. Online sessions are 2 hours; in-person sessions run 10am–4pm in London.
Online Programme
Blended Programme
Hear from parents who've been where you are
The Fellowship gave me the confidence and tools to go for a Director role I would never have believed was possible while my children were young.
I thought I had to choose. The Fellowship showed me — and gave me the practical skills to prove — that I didn't.
The community alone is worth it. These are people who get it — the ambition, the guilt, the juggle — and they become lifelong allies.
Answers to what's on your mind
What does it cost?
Pricing starts at £2,100 + VAT and varies by delivery mode and who is funding. Hardship fund places are available. Download the brochure for full pricing details.
How much time does it take?
On average, just over half a day per month across 9 months — including pre-work and up to 5 mentor sessions. Designed to fit around work and family.
Can I apply if I'm on parental leave?
Yes — the programme is accessible during maternity, shared parental, or adoption leave. We actively welcome applications from parents in this situation and babies are welcome to attend sessions!
Will my employer fund it?
Often yes — many Fellows secure employer funding. We review applications on a rolling basis to give you time to arrange this. Download our funding guide for tips →
Is there support if I'm outside the UK?
Absolutely. Our Online Only format is designed for international Fellows with no face-to-face requirement and maximum scheduling flexibility.
What sectors are represented?
The Cross-Sector Fellowship is open to parents from all sectors — public, private, third sector, and international. This diversity is one of its greatest strengths.
The only question left is: are you ready?
Applications for January 2027 close on 17 November 2027. The process is quick, you can save as you go, and our team is here if you have any questions.