Join the 21st edition of the ECIU Leadership Development Programme

This leadership program is incredibly valuable because of its unique focus on all four levels of leadership, ranging from self-reflection and effective coaching conversations with individual employees, to analyzing team success and understanding the university as an organization within a larger ecosystem. Additionally, it provided me with a deeper insight into the landscape of higher education in Europe and the dynamics in Brussels.

It is precisely this combination that ensures that every aspect of leadership encountered in daily work is addressed. Beyond the interesting content, the program’s educational format fostered a highly engaging learning environment. The assignments were active, diverse, tailored, and enjoyable. The program has given me a clear understanding of the forces at play and how to influence these factors positively. I have grown significantly in my leadership and look back on this learning journey with great pleasure.

The ECIU Leadership Development Programme proved to be an outstanding opportunity not only to strengthen key leadership competencies and reflect on our universities and higher education systems, but also to gain a deeper understanding of myself—both personally and professionally—and to broaden my awareness of the realities faced by other ECIU partners.

While we all share certain commonalities, it was the identification of our differences that proved truly valuable and eye-opening—offering a unique learning experience. Both the formal and informal spaces for exchange were extremely enriching, continuously generating ideas and proposals that could contribute to improving the functioning of my own university. Beyond purely academic aspects, the three seminars also offered the opportunity to build meaningful and lasting relationships within an environment of high intellectual and personal quality.

The impact of the ECIU LDP on me has been significant, and all indications suggest that it will be long-lasting.

"The ECIU Leadership Development Programme 2024-2025 provided me a valuable framework for understanding the landscape of higher education in Europe, building leadership skills, and fostering collaboration through the challenge-based project.

Each seminar contributed a different perspective—Twente’s emphasis on personal leadership, Lyon’s focus on values and cultural leadership, and Brussels’ systems and policy view.

The challenge-based project served as a useful integrative element, though its link to the broader themes of the seminars could be strengthened, particularly with more structured time for peer feedback and reflection.

Overall, the programme is well worth recommending to colleagues, especially those early in their leadership journey! "

"The ECIU Leadership Development Programme provided an excellent opportunity to network with fellow academics and higher education experts from across Europe.

The programme greatly improved my understanding of higher education ecosystems, enhanced my leadership skills through targeted simulations and deepened my insights into university change management.

The practical experience of presenting strategic projects to senior management was particularly valuable.

The guidance of proficient mentors throughout the programme contributed greatly to my professional development.

I strongly recommend the ECIU Leadership Development Programme to academic managers interested in strengthening institutional collaboration and promoting sustainable innovation."

"Participating in the ECIU Leadership Development Program has been transformative.

Through tailored exercises and engaging discussions, I have grown significantly as a leader.

The program's unique focus on university structures has equipped me with a profound understanding of the academic landscape.

Learning in a multinational group has broadened my perspective and deepened my knowledge. This diverse environment has fostered a collaborative spirit, allowing us to learn from each other's experiences and viewpoints.

Beyond professional growth, we had a lot of fun and formed lasting bonds. The ECIU program has provided me with a network of like-minded individuals committed to excellence in higher education."

"What makes the Leadership Development Program so special for me is the way it combines personal leadership development, strategic thinking, and the Challenge element.

The seamless integration of these aspects led to several “aha” moments throughout the program. Even when the Challenge topic was far removed from my own field of work, it provided a valuable opportunity to connect with other team members on a different level and to apply the concepts from the other two parts of the program to a real-world example.
This allowed each participant to focus on their own priorities and take away something meaningful—regardless of their level of leadership experience.

The personal exchange with people from a wide range of institutions and professional backgrounds was incredibly enriching, and I’m confident that the connections formed during this program will last for a long time."