Thirty-two senior public servants from across the world arrived in Oxford last week to take part in the Rising Public Leaders Programme at the School – an intensive, immersive experience designed to equip public sector leaders with the tools, insights, and confidence to lead through complexity. 

Spanning 17 countries – including Nigeria, Ireland, Colombia, India, and Sweden – the 2025 cohort brought together a remarkable range of expertise. With job titles such as Executive Director, Chief Economist, Assistant Secretary General and Director General, the participants are united by a common mission: to strengthen their skills and tackle the biggest challenges in the public sector.  

The programme also offered a formal dinner at Corpus Christi College, where participants connected with peers and faculty in one of the University’s oldest and most iconic settings.

The course helped me to reflect on some fundamental issues of leadership in my role in the civil service and has given me some practical tools to help me adjust my approach. I cannot recommend it highly enough. – Thomas Allan, Head of the Gulf Department, FCDO. 

The week offered much more than academic learning. Participants engaged in a wide array of interactive and experiential activities, including a decision-making simulation in London, designed to test leadership decision-making under pressure, and a special dinner and guest lecture at the House of Commons. In Oxford, the cohort took part in a story slam at the School, where they reflected on personal leadership journeys through the power of narrative. 

Applications for the next cohort will open soon, to register your interest or find out more, visit the Rising Public Leaders Programme page or contact the Executive Education team at executive.admissions@bsg.ox.ac.uk.