LGBTQ+ leaders in higher education

A leadership development programme for LGBTQ+ university staff

Are you an LGBTQ+ professional in higher education looking to step into leadership, make a difference or influence those around you?

LGBTQ+ Leaders is a dedicated leadership development programme designed exclusively for staff who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Non-binary, or Queer. Whether you work in an academic or professional services role, this programme will equip you with the skills, confidence, and network to be successful and advance your career.

Why apply?

This transformative programme designed by experts at Anglia Ruskin University and the University of Bedfordshire, will provide you with:

• Routes into leadership: Learn from inspiring LGBTQ+ leaders
• Communication and presentation skills: Become an excellent communicator
• Skills to overcome barriers and influence change: Drive inclusive practice
• Strong networks: Connect with LGBTQ+ peers in other universities
• LGBTQ+ mentorship: You will gain support from LGBTQ+ mentors who will guide you throughout the programme, providing personalised advice to help you achieve your goals.

Programme dates

There are three in-person leadership development days in Cambridge:

• Wednesday 3 September 2025
• Tuesday 6 January 2026
• Friday 8 May 2026

With two further keeping in touch online events on:

• Wednesday 4 March 2026
• Thursday 6 November 2025

The year-long programme including mentoring costs £750 which is payable in up to three instalments.

Discounted accommodation in Cambridge will be available.

Feedback from participants on the programme

This programme has been life-changing and transformational for me (Gay male, academic)

The programme is innovative and inspirational and one of the best programmes I have attended (Lesbian, professional services)

As an Indian gay woman, I have felt so out of place, and through this I have found my confident voice and met people I would not have met (Gay woman, professional services)

I feel seen and valued as a member of staff, I have gained loads and allowed myself the space figure out what I want and how being an out lesbian might not be the negative thing I have perceived it to be at work (Lesbian, academic)