Developing leaders in the public sector

The First Minister asked us to prepare an independent assessment of how Welsh public services are developing future leaders to be effective and to meet the needs of the people of Wales. A particular focus was whether future leaders had broad experience from across the public sector, as well as the skills and behaviours to respond to current and future policy challenges.

We found that current provision and take up of leadership and development varies across the public sector, and Academi Wales could play a greater role in ensuring that all parts of the public sector have access to high-quality training and development. While there is appetite for more collaboration, focus also needs to be placed on formal progression pathways and training opportunities. Leaders also need to be equipped to deal with the challenges of digital transformation.