Upcoming Sessions
Participant Profile
>15 years
of working experience8 - 10 years
of people management experienceINSEAD’s Women Leaders Programme brings together an elite group of women business leaders. It will benefit executives from a range of disciplines and managerial backgrounds, who:
- have reached the office of vice president or a global directorship within their organisation
- have been identified as high-potential leaders and have used that opportunity to their advantage
- are seeking to enhance their global leadership skills, and demonstrate a strong drive to reach the top of their organisation
Typical participants include Vice-Presidents, C-suite level executives, Head of Departments, or Global Directors.
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Is this programme suitable for first-time managers or only experienced leaders?
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This programme is designed primarily for experienced leaders rather than first-time managers. It assumes a level of professional maturity and focuses on refining leadership capability, rather than introducing foundational management skills.
If you are a emerging women leader, you may consider our Advancing Diversity and Inclusion programme also helmed by Professor Jennifer Petriglieri.
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Is this programme more relevant for mid-career or senior executives?
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It is relevant for both, but particularly impactful for professionals moving into senior leadership or already operating at that level. The combination of peer learning and advanced leadership topics ensures value for experienced leaders at different stages of their careers.
The programme is well suited for high-potential female leaders preparing for their next role. It helps participants build the confidence, visibility, and leadership skills required to take on greater responsibilities and operate effectively at a higher level.
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Is this programme suitable for women who feel “stuck” in their careers?
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Yes. The programme is particularly valuable for women who feel they are plateauing despite strong performance. It helps participants identify and address less visible barriers—such as organisational dynamics, access to sponsorship, or how they are perceived—that can impact progression.
Many participants who join this programme are already in a position of leadership, but may not fully identify with traditional leadership archetypes. The programme helps women define and develop a leadership style that is authentic to them, rather than conforming to existing norms.
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What kinds of challenges are participants typically facing when they join?
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Participants often come in with challenges such as:
- Being overlooked for senior roles despite strong performance
- Struggling to make their voice heard in senior forums
- Navigating complex stakeholder or political environments
- Balancing authenticity with expectations of leadership presence
- Limited access to sponsors or influential networks