Bayes develops Harrow’s future leaders with trailblazing executive education programme

Bayes Business School’s Executive Education team has partnered with the London Borough of Harrow to deliver a tailored leadership programme for council staff.

The Harnessing Ambition Programme is the first between a leading business school and local authority and will develop staff to future-proof the organisation, improving outcomes for residents through stronger leadership, innovation and productivity.

Designed specifically for aspiring leaders, the programme blends theory and practical application to build a confident, collaborative and future ready workforce while creating an environment for reflection, collaboration and connection.

Participants explore themes of decision-making, financial management, strategic thinking and how to motivate through change to sharpen vital leadership capabilities.

The programme was launched in July 2025 and has already nurtured 61 graduate leaders, with a further 60 currently enrolled. The Borough has embedded it as a key element of its workforce strategy to equip technically skilled council staff with the leadership tools to drive improvement, innovation and better outcomes for its residents.

Pierre McIlwee, Executive Education Client Director at Bayes, said:

“The Executive Education team at Bayes is proud to partner with the London Borough of Harrow on this ambitious and forward-thinking programme.

“What stands out about the Borough’s approach is its belief in its people and an investment in long-term leadership capability. Through close collaboration with colleagues across the Borough, we co-created a programme designed to support Harrow’s strategic ambitions and strengthen leadership capability across the organisation.

“The energy, openness and commitment we have seen from participants has been exceptional. By creating space for reflection, collaboration and strategic thinking, the Harnessing Ambition Programme is helping managers step back, broaden their perspective and return to their roles with greater clarity and confidence.

“We are pleased to be supporting Harrow as it strengthens leadership from within.”

Alex Dewsnap, Managing Director of the London Borough of Harrow, said:

“The Harnessing Ambition Programme is already creating real cultural change within the organisation. Staff are gaining the skills they need to lead with purpose and deliver better for residents of the Borough.

“At a time when councils everywhere are facing tough decisions, we are focused on building leadership that is connected, collaborative and ready for the challenges ahead. Our partnership with Bayes Business School has been central to this - stretching our colleagues, broadening their thinking and helping them forge stronger relationships that will support long-lasting improvement across Harrow.”

By the end of the programme, 250 Harrow Borough leaders will have completed the Harnessing Ambition Programme.

Bayes Business School offers open and customised Executive Education programmes for individuals and organisations, across a range of disciplines including leadership, entrepreneurship, finance and insurance.

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