Friday Footnote #96

Each week we share loads of content amongst Team ION and with our network. Content that inspires us, which we find helpful, or just makes us smile. We thought we would start sharing these insights every Friday. Welcome to Friday Footnote. 

What role does leadership play in developing a culture of innovation? 

The Welsh Government are currently in the process of developing their Innovation Strategy for Wales - 'Building upon global research, and learning and insights shared by individuals, organisations and communities across Wales, the strategy will set out a clear future direction, and overarching priorities, for innovation in Wales in the years ahead'. 

As part of the consultation pocess for the development of the strategy, Adam attended an interesting virtual workshop on Monday of this week discussing innovation leadership. After an overview of what the strategy hoped to achieve, everyone in attendance was divided in to breakout rooms to discuss a number of questions including:

• What are you trying to achieve through innovation?
• What role does leadership play?
• What can we do as leaders?
• What advice would you give to Welsh Government on innovation leadership?

During the hugely engaging session there were a number of recurring themes including the importance of leaders creating the right environment for innovation to thrive, creating a culture where failure was OK, and the need to learn from the best in the world. It was a hugely engaging session and we look forward to contributing towards future discussions. 

You can have your say on the innovation strategy by completing this form.  

We are also looking forward to continuing the innovation conversations next week as Suzanne and Adam from the team attend a number of MADE Cymru sessions as part of their 2022 Industry Summit. The 3 day summit is made up of face-to-face and virtual sessions spit across 3 themes; 'Sustainability and net zero', 'Investing in your future', and 'Collaboration'. Hopefully we'll see some of you there, and keep and eye out on social channels next week, and next week's #FridayFootnote, for updates.   

#HelptoGrow

Suzanne and Adam got up (very) early on Tuesday to attend the Small Business Charter 'Grow your own way' event in London, discussing the Help To Grow programme and how it is unlocking the growth potential of UK enterprise. 

The session was led excellently by Chair of the Charter, Michael Hayman, and featured a number of high profile speakers and engaging panel discussions. Speakers included NatWest Group Group Chief Executive Alison Rose, Minister for Small Business Paul Scully MP, and Lord Young of Graffham. There was a panel discussion covering the role of entrepreneurship in the levelling up agenda, and a hugely insightful panel discussion with Help to Grow alumni discussing the impact of the programme on themselves and their businesses. 

It was also reassuring to hear an ION mantra repeated throughout the morning - it's hugely important to spend time working on the business, rather than in the business. 

What's caught our eye this week?

• Think you have a great idea? Ask these 6 questions to gain perspective (Harvard Business Review)
• The secret power of prototyping (IDEO)
• Unlock the power of purpose (MIT Sloan Management Review) 
• How to discover your authentic self - at any age (TED)
• Support your peoples CPD. Everyone wins! (ION)
• Emotional intelligence has 12 elements. Which do you need to work on? (Harvard Business Review) 

Become an extraordinary leader with ION

For over 11 years we have supported leaders at all levels to become extraordinary leaders. Whether you are just starting your leadership journey, or want to freshen up your skills and learn how best to implement the latest thinking, strategies and best practice into your business, we have a programme which meets your needs. 

We currently run 2 tailored leadership programmes; ILM Level 3 New Leaders programme, and an ILM Level 5 Leading Growth programme. However, we are coming towards the end of our current funding cycle, so there are limited programmes scheduled to take place. We know that everyone says 'time is running out'. But in this instance, it really is.

You can find out more about upcoming programmes on our Course page. However, if our programmes don't 100% meet your requirements, get in touch with Adam on ionleadership@swansea.ac.uk to arrange a chat to find out how we can work with you to develop extraordinary leaders in your organisation.

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