Run by independent leadership development organisation Common Purpose, the 20:20 programme brings together senior leaders from the public, private and not-for-profit sectors to provide them with a behind-the-scenes perspective on the economic, political, social and international factors driving the UK.
20:20 initiates a Forum for business leaders to consider what the long-term future might hold. Participants are given a rare chance to meet a broad range of top-level business people, politicians, civil servants and economists with whom the ‘issues of the day’ might be explored.
The five-day residential programme is being run in both London and Brussels from 16-20 June.
In conversation with info4security, Common Purpose’s spokesperson Marie Mohan explained: “Senior industry leaders need to keep pace with developments in business practice, economics, politics and a hole host of corporate issues as never before. 20:20 can help them do this. They must be able to spot promising opportunities as well as oncoming threats so that these can be dealt with in an efficient and positive manner.”
A deeper understanding of the workings of Government and the economy post 20:20 will enable participants to work with (and influence) the decision-making process more effectively. In addition, it will assist them in expanding their horizons and developing their strategic thinking by honing their understanding of international trends. Participants will also be able to learn about the implications of managing diversity in the light of forthcoming demographic changes and increasing globalisation.
Sally Sykes – the communications director at DePuy Orthopaedics – attended 20:20 in 2006, and commented: “All-too-often, particularly in the larger organisations, individuals can become a little inward-looking, focusing solely on their own objectives and deliverables. 20:20 brings together a good mix of delegates, exposing company executives to other leadership styles and settings, as well as offering an understanding of how public policy works in an environment outside business where multiple Stakeholders are brought together to achieve change.”
Sykes continued: “Personally, I don’t think my normal working life would have seen me involved in a discussion group with a top Ministry of Defence civil servant, a global oil company executive, an Imam, a senior executive working in the arts sector on behalf of people with disabilities and a policy advisor to one of our national church leaders. The 20:20 meetings happen in settings such as the Cabinet Room at Number 10 Downing Street. It really is a high-level debate. Working with my group of participants was certainly a unique leadership development experience, and I would advise security leaders and thought leaders among their client organisation to become involved.”
Readers of info4security who are interested in learning more about the 20:20 Programme should telephone Common Purpose on 0161-231 5914, or send an e-mail to: [email protected] Alternatively, log on at: www.commonpurpose.org.uk
