Darren Sprod, CEO of Central Coast Football in Australia, discusses how the Ivey Leadership Program has given him applicable tools and strategies to immediately impact his organization and positively influence his own leadership.
What led you to take the Ivey Leadership Program (ILP)?
I was looking for a leadership program and had heard a lot of positives about Ivey. I used to work for a Canadian company and one of my colleagues had studied at Ivey and told me the school was great. The cost for us, as a not-for-profit, made it less expensive than an equivalent executive education program in Australia.
What surprised you most about the program?
To be honest, everything had that little bit “extra.” From the level of detail provided for a week-long program, to the variances in the interaction and learning modes. The case studies were very relevant and the whole week was very engaging.
How did the program prepare you for the challenges you face at work?
The case studies were very relevant and the class discussions provided many “light bulb” moments as well. The Ivey Leadership Program gave me applicable tools and strategies to immediately apply upon returning to work.
Has ILP changed your approach to leadership?
Yes, definitely. I can say it allowed me to step back and take a look at the bigger picture and truly understand that sometimes you need to manage, but you always need to lead.
What was the highlight of the program?
This is a hard one to answer because the whole program was a highlight! If I had to narrow it down to one thing, it was the overall level of interaction between the program participants and the faculty team.
How would you describe the program’s impact?
This program has really allowed me to reflect on my own leadership impact and how I can positively impact not only our business, but all interactions I have – in my personal life and in business.
Have you found peers that you can continue to use as sounding boards, referrals and lifelong friends?
Yes, definitely. We have already started networking and sharing thoughts and ideas.
Overall this program went above and beyond and I wouldn’t hesitate in travelling from Australia again to attend another program at The Ivey Academy based on this experience.
Rising leaders need to shift their perspective to a broader lens that encompasses the entire organization. To really make an impact, you’ll need to amplify your interpersonal leadership skills – the soft skills that will differentiate you from the rest of the pack.Building on your experience and analysis of your personal leadership style, the Ivey Leadership Program helps individuals develop their leadership potential. Armed with enhanced influence and persuasion skills and the ability to think big picture, you will confidently make the shift from managing to leading.
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