BLOG: Inside the Future Leaders Programme Community: Building Confidence, Connection and Capability in Financial Services
What does leadership development really look like in practice?
It is easy to think of leadership as something defined by job titles or seniority. But for many professionals across financial services, it is something that is built over time. Through experience, reflection and the opportunity to learn from others.
Across TISA Future Leaders community, individuals at different stages of their careers are coming together with a shared goal. To grow, to challenge themselves and to develop the skills needed to lead with confidence in a changing industry.
Through a series of conversations with participants, a number of clear themes have emerged. From building confidence to learning from peers, and applying new approaches in real roles, the experience is as much about personal growth as it is professional development.
Building Confidence
For many, the starting point is confidence. Not just in their role, but in how they contribute and lead.
Leadership begins with a shift in mindset. Being willing to step forward, reflect and develop over time.
“It’s given me the opportunity to reflect on myself as a manager. We learned about the chimp paradox which has been key in my learning. There are two parts of your brain, emotional and computer side, and it is thinking about what brain I am using at the time and trying to overrule the emotional side at times.”
Sam Slater, SS&C
Learning from Others
A consistent theme is the value of connecting with peers across the industry.
Hearing different perspectives helps break down silos and build a broader understanding of leadership. It also reinforces that many challenges are shared.
“It’s been great to work with the cohort, learning about different businesses and learning more about myself.”
Aleah Townsend, Connor Broadley
Putting Learning into Practice
Development matters most when it can be applied day to day.
Participants are already using new approaches in their roles. Small changes in thinking and behaviour are leading to real impact.
“The biggest thing I’ve learned is team management. They need to have some guidance and they are now more interactive and understand the business well. They appreciate the structure I’ve created in our one to ones.”
Jackie Thompson, TISA
A Stronger Community
Alongside individual growth, there is a clear sense of community and shared learning.
Bringing together professionals from across financial services creates a space to learn, connect and grow together.
“The biggest takeaway for me was understanding what other companies do, what roles they have, what policies they have in place in terms of management. Through the programme, we have helped other companies grow their own policies.”
Sam Slater, SS&C
Looking Ahead
The future of financial services will be shaped by individuals who are open to learning, collaboration and change.
Across the TISA community, these qualities are being developed every day. Through shared experience, reflection and practical application.
Be Part of It
TISA supports professionals at every stage of their career through learning, connection and collaboration.
TISA FLP is exclusive to TISA members. Find out more about becoming a TISA member: https://www.tisa.uk.com/tisa-member-benefits/
