Orchestrating Major Projects

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For public service leaders at the forefront of delivering highly complex and high-stakes projects
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Duration:

  • 10 days over 6 months

Time commitment:

  • Part time

Locations:

  • Live virtual
  • Oxford

Cost:

  • Contact us for pricing

This programme is designed for Director Generals, Chief Executive Officers and Permanent Secretaries in partnership with the UK Infrastructure and Projects Authority.

About the programme

Public service leaders are at the forefront of delivering highly complex and high-stakes projects while responding to shifting policy landscapes and external pressures. The Orchestrating Major Projects (OMP) programme supports senior sponsors to become leaders who maintain focus on delivering policy outcomes for citizens while safeguarding organisational capability and ensuring value for money.

The programme is a cornerstone of the UK Government's strategy to enhance the delivery of major projects. Designed specifically for the most senior leaders it will equip you with the tools to shape your operating environment, focusing on both immediate project outcomes and long-term organisational resilience.

Developed in collaboration with the UK Infrastructure and Projects Authority, the programme draws on lessons from the Major Projects Leadership Academy and insights from both government and the private sector. 

The programme addresses:

  • the unique challenges facing senior public service leaders
  • the growing complexity of major projects
  • the urgency of new policy challenges such as net-zero goals
  • global political and economic disruptions.

While this programme has set the standard for the personal and professional development of major project sponsors, ongoing development ensures the programme stays relevant in an ever-changing landscape.

Paul Chapman

Academy Director

Programme approach

The core objective is to empower senior leaders to create the conditions necessary for major projects to succeed. You will develop key capabilities to lead effectively in complex and high-pressure environments including:

  • robust project initiation
  • major project leadership skills
  • building organisational resilience
  • leading transformation and agility. 

Curriculum

The programme delivers impactful learning by blending cutting-edge research, real-world case studies and a strong focus on practical application. Recognising the demanding environments in which senior leaders operate, the programme provides the time and space to step back, reflect and learn from peers. Our experience in designing leadership programmes for major project sponsors in both the public and private sectors underscores the value of peer learning, which fosters stronger personal and professional networks.

The 10-day programme is delivered over six months, with a commitment to high-impact learning through the following elements: 

Residential module

Intensive one-week residential at Egrove Park, Oxford, with inspirational visits to frontline public services.

Online masterclasses

Tailored sessions focusing on technical and leadership challenges in major projects.

One-to-one and small group tutoring

Led by master practitioners to provide personalised guidance. 

Capstone event

Practical experimentation and reflection, culminating in a presentation of key learnings.

Faculty and experts

Oxford’s faculty are experts in both academic theory and the practical realities of leading in the public sector. In partnership with the Infrastructure and Projects Authority, we bring together global thought leaders and experienced practitioners who have driven significant change in their organisations and society. The programme is led by Dr Paul Chapman and Leasil Burrow. 

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