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Aurora Women’s Leadership Development Programme for Women

02 Jan 2024

Applications close this week - Friday, 5 January 2024

We are inviting applications for the national Aurora Women’s Leadership Development Programme (Advance HE).

Since its launch in 2013, we have supported 122 women from across the University through the programme.   

This year we are inviting applications for our institutional allocation of 16 places. We welcome applications from women from all staff groups (academic and PS) and from all functions and Faculties. The Aurora programme is designed to support women into leadership roles rather than for those who are already in a leadership role. Therefore, we welcome applications up to senior lecturer level or professional services equivalent who wish to develop their leadership skills and potential.

Aurora is a key initiative to address the under-representation of women leaders in Higher Education. The Aurora programme aims to enable a wider range of women to think of themselves as future leaders, providing a positive experience of leadership and encouraging participants to recognise their talent and capabilities, develop the skills they will need and to ‘step-up’ to future leadership posts.

What Aurora covers

The Aurora programme focuses on core areas associated with leadership success:

  • Understanding organisations and the sector.
  • Developing leadership behaviours, skills and knowledge.
  • Identifying and overcoming barriers and obstacles.
  • Growing confidence and a leadership identity.
  • Building networks, coalitions, and support processes.

Aurora participants will attend an online introduction session which will introduce the aims and objectives of Aurora, 4 online development days and 2 action learning sets, and a closing in person development day. Participants will also be paired with a senior Manchester mentor, many of whom are Aurora Alumni themselves. The programme runs from late Feb 2024 to mid Jul 2024.

University of Manchester Aurora Champion and Aurora Alumna, Professor Rachel Cowen (University Lead for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion), will support the application process by fielding expressions of interest. Rachel says: "Aurora is a powerful and career enhancing experience and an important part of our diverse and inclusive leadership development approach. It’s a privilege to champion the programme, to support our inspiring participants and alumni to access leadership opportunities and champion positive change.

If you would like to apply for Aurora, please read the information to check your eligibility and complete the application form by 5pm on Friday, 5 January 2024.  

Creating an inclusive working environment and equal opportunities for all is at the heart of our university vision and strategic plan.  Should you require assistance to complete this application form, require it in an alternative format or need adjustments to complete the Aurora Leadership Course please contact us at equalityanddiversity@manchester.ac.uk.