Who is the Leadership Forum for?
Experienced senior leaders who want a confidential place to examine significant issues, test their thinking and hear independent perspectives from peers outside their organisation.

How is this different from networking?
The Forum is not a networking group. It is a small, consistent group of leaders who meet regularly to work through real leadership and business issues together.

What do members discuss?
Current issues that matter to them: strategy, people, growth, succession, change, accountability and difficult decisions that can be hard to discuss openly within their organisation.

What happens in a Forum session?
Members bring current issues, decisions, and questions. Through facilitated discussion, they test their thinking, hear different perspectives, and draw on the experience of other senior leaders.

I already have a strong network. What would I gain?
Even well-connected leaders can have few people with whom they can speak candidly and without a vested interest in the outcome. The Forum provides that independent perspective.

I’m already very busy. What is the commitment?
Over 12 months, members attend four in person sessions in Newcastle from 9.00 am to 2.00 pm and eight 90-minute online sessions. There is no additional work required between sessions.

Do I need to prepare for each session?
No formal preparation is required. Come ready to discuss what is happening in your business or leadership role at the time. The Forum works with the real issues members are facing.

What will I gain over the 12 months?
The value will be different for each member. The Forum provides regular space to think beyond the immediate demands of your role, challenge your assumptions, learn from other experienced leaders, and make better informed decisions.

Why only eight members?
A small group gives everyone time to contribute and allows members to understand each other’s leadership and business context. Membership is individual, with no substitutes, so trust can develop over time.

Will there be people from the same industry?
There may be industry overlap, particularly across related sectors, but no direct competitors. The group is carefully curated so members can speak openly while benefiting from a range of experience and perspectives.

Why is the Forum led by someone from outside Newcastle?
Independence is part of its value. Charlotte brings an external perspective without being embedded in local business relationships or organisational agendas. Members bring their knowledge and experience of Newcastle and the region.

What if my organisation pays for my membership?
Your organisation can fund your participation, but membership remains individual and cannot be transferred to another person. The same confidentiality requirements apply regardless of who pays.

How are members selected?
Charlotte meets with each prospective member. Selection considers leadership experience, contribution to the group, its overall composition, and potential competitive conflicts.

How do I apply?
Request the Forum brief and arrange a conversation with Charlotte. We can discuss the Forum, answer your questions, and determine whether it is the right fit for you and the group.