Rising Stars Development Programme

Rising Stars Development Programme

Empowering The Next Generation of Business Leaders

The Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the University of Edinburgh, presents the Rising Stars Development Programme – a six-session, in-person leadership training course in Edinburgh designed to accelerate the growth of early-career professionals and aspiring future leaders.

Building on the success of our Rising Stars Networking Evenings, the programme combines academic expertise, hands-on learning, and real-world insights from senior business leaders – offering professional development training in Edinburgh that helps businesses invest in emerging talent and strengthen their leadership pipeline.

Who Should Apply

The programme is tailored for:

  • Early-career professionals ready to step into leadership roles in the business community.
  • Identified “rising stars” within organisations.
  • Ambitious individuals seeking to expand their professional toolkit, business acumen, expand their networks and personal brand.

What Participants Will Gain

Participants will:

  • Develop strategic thinking skills using AI and innovation tools.
  • Strengthen emotional intelligence and resilience.
  • Gain practical approaches to leading high-performing teams.
  • Enhance communication and presentation skills.
  • Build a personal leadership brand that supports career progression.
  • Expand their professional network across sectors.

For Employers: Invest in Your Future Leaders

Developing the next generation of leaders is vital for long-term business success. By enrolling employees, organisations can:

  • Build strong succession planning pathways.
  • Retain and engage top talent.
  • Support a culture of continuous learning.
  • Strengthen leadership capacity across Edinburgh’s business community.

Key Dates & Sessions

All sessions are in person at the Edinburgh Futures Institute at the University of Edinburgh, and run from 9:00 – 12:15.

  • Session 1: Beyond Gut Feel – AI-Enhanced Strategic Thinking (22/01/2026)
  • Session 2: Emotional Intelligence & Self-Management (5/02/2026)
  • Session 3: Leadership & Team Dynamics (19/02/2026)
  • Session 4: Effective Communication & Presentation Skills (05/03/2026)
  • Session 5: Developing Your Leadership / Personal Branding Roadmap (19/03/2026)
  • Session 6: Innovation & Problem Solving (02/04/2026)

Programme Fee

  • Member Rate: £1,500 + VAT
  • Non-Member Rate: £1,700 + VAT
  • Registration deadline: 08/01/2026

Cancellation Policy

  • Full refund available for cancellations made 28 days or more before the programme start date.
  • No refund for cancellations received less than 28 days before the start date.
  • Substitutions are permitted at no extra cost if arranged 14 days or more before the programme begins.
  • Please note: refunds cannot be offered for missed individual sessions.

For full information view our  brochure here.

Click here to book