FEI Leadership Excellence Accelerator: People Leader Track

Agenda

SESSION 1: KICK OFF & ORIENTATION

This opening session sets the stage for a successful program by fostering connections among participants and providing an overview of the journey ahead. Key themes, expectations, and program goals will be introduced, helping participants align their individual intentions with the overall learning outcomes.

SESSION 2: THE PEOPLE LEADERSHIP MINDSET

In this session, participants will explore the foundational mindsets essential for effective people leadership. By focusing on flourishing, awareness, systems thinking, and strengths-based leadership, participants will gain practical tools to lead teams with intention and create environments where individuals thrive.

SESSION 3: ROLES OF A PEOPLE LEADER

In this session, participants will explore the six essential roles of effective leadership: forever learner, people developer, values guardian, futures-minded innovator, strategic thinker, and culture creator. By reflecting on their own strengths and growth areas, participants will identify actionable strategies to embody these roles and drive success within their teams and organizations.

SESSION 4: STRENGTHS-BASED LEADERSHIP FOR MANAGERS

In this session, participants will learn how to use the CliftonStrengths Manager report to lead with their natural talents and recognize the unique strengths of their team members. By individualizing their leadership approach, participants will enhance team engagement and performance through a strengths-based leadership style.

SESSION 5: FRAMEWORKS FOR DIFFICULT CONVERSATIONS

In this session, participants will learn structured approaches, such as SBIF and the "duplicate vs. deviate" models, to effectively navigate challenging conversations. The focus will be on addressing conflict while preserving relationships, fostering constructive dialogue, and maintaining emotional intelligence.

SESSION 6: ADVANCED PRESENTATION SKILLS

In this session, participants will focus on storytelling, confidently handling Q&A, and using visual aids to enhance key messages. Participants will learn to deliver compelling, strategic presentations that inspire action and align with organizational goals.

SESSION 7: STRUCTURED PEER REVIEW FEEDBACK

In this session, participants will practice active listening as they engage with their peers’ recorded leadership presentations. Through guided reflection and structured frameworks, they will learn to give thoughtful, constructive feedback that supports growth, encourages confidence, and builds a culture of mutual learning and respect.

SESSION 8: FOSTERING A POSITIVE TEAM CULTURE & CLIMATE

In this session, participants will learn how to intentionally shape a team environment where collaboration, trust, and inclusion thrive. The focus will be on reinforcing shared values, celebrating wins, and creating psychological safety to build a positive and cohesive team culture.

SESSION 9: HOW TO LEAD INNOVATION & PROBLEM-SOLVING

In this session, participants learn skills and frameworks necessary to foster a culture of innovation within their teams. Participants will learn how to guide their teams through creative problem-solving processes, encourage diverse thinking, and implement practical solutions that drive results. Emphasis will be placed on collaboration, risk-taking, and iterative improvement.

SESSION 10: ENHANCED CRITICAL & STRATEGIC THINKING

In this session, participants will explore key concepts such as bias, framing, and systems thinking to strengthen their critical and strategic thinking. The session will focus on how to identify and mitigate biases, while applying systems thinking and strategic frameworks to develop long-term, holistic solutions that drive better decision-making within teams and organizations.

SESSION 11: LIVE PRESENTATIONS

In this session, participants will deliver a final 5-minute presentation that reflects on their leadership journey, celebrates achievements, and highlights key learnings from the program. Through peer feedback, participants will further refine their leadership skills while closing the program with intention and confidence.

SESSION 12: CLOSING SESSION

In this closing session, we will celebrate your achievements and graduation from the program, reflecting on key takeaways and growth. Together, we'll set intentional next steps for applying your leadership skills and continue your journey of professional development.