My journey through the Executive Public Leaders Programme

As the recipient of the 2024 Australian Public Service Dr Margot McCarthy Scholarship, I was provided the opportunity to undertake the Executive Public Leaders Programme (EPLP) at the Blavatnik School of Government, Oxford. The chance to participate in the programme over an intense 12-day period was simply life changing. The Blavatnik faculty were exceptional. The curriculum provided in-depth insight to complex challenges faced by leaders in the public sector, and supplied us with the practical methodologies, tools and approaches to navigate these challenges. 

The course content was incredibly stimulating, covering relevant and important topics including governing in times of challenge and change, pitfalls in decision-making, strengthening public organisations, crafting effective narratives and cultures of respect. The module on integrity in public life was particularly fascinating and was a central theme for discussion and reflection carefully woven through the entire course. The teaching methods were engaging and the use of different mediums and locations supported the group to deeply learn, share experiences and listen to understand. The combination of lectures, small group sessions, guest speakers, and simulation exercises provided an ideal environment to maximise learning and to test an array of different tools and approaches. 

Our cohort of wonderfully diverse and talented group senior leaders from across the globe, offered a vast array of different perspectives, resulting in deep, thought-provoking discussions on a range of topics. We shared information on the different challenges we face as senior leaders, which allowed us to explore how domestic challenges are navigated and the impacts geopolitical issues have on our communities. 

In addition to the diverse perspectives and the unique challenges we face, I was struck by how amazingly similar our leadership challenges were. Our cohort had a truly unique and powerful experience where we connected, supported and learned deeply from each other. We developed a strong rapport and a shared commonality throughout the learning process – this was was so much more than being on a course together. I am confident we will continue our connections with each other long into the future. 

The Executive Public Leaders Programme is the most impactful and thought-provoking professional leadership programme I have taken part in. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to have been part of this experience, which has made an enormous impact on me as a leader, and I know it will continue to shape my professional journey for many years to come.

We are now accepting applications for the Executive Public Leaders Programme on 22 June – 3 July 2025.