PEER INTO THE FUTURE 2026/27
Strategic Leadership Programme
Applications are now open
Developed by PPMA and led by some of the most respected voices in HR, OD and organisational leadership, Peer Into the Future is designed to develop confident, strategic leaders ready to shape the future of public services.
Through six inspiring modules, expert speakers, executive coaching and a national peer network, participants gain the insight, confidence and connections to lead at the highest level.
Applications for the 2026/27 programme are now closed.
Meet the 2026/27 Peer Into the Future Cohort
We’re delighted to welcome our 2026/27 Peer Into the Future cohort.
Over the coming months, this year’s participants will take part in six inspiring modules, developing their strategic leadership capability, broadening their thinking and building lasting connections with peers from across the public sector.
Meet our 2026/27 participants:
Anasia Teete
Head of People and OD
Royal Borough of Kingston Council
Adwoa Darko
Had of Equity, Diversion and Inclusion
Newham Council
James Pierce
Organisational Development
Richmond and Wandsworth Council
Hannah Panter
Head of HR and OD
North West Leicestershire District Council
John Deakins
Head of Business Partnering
Richmond and Wandsworth Council
Lucy Shaw
HR/OD Business Partner
Stockport Council
Jackie O’Donoghue
Head of Strategic HR Partnering
Islington Council
Laura Thompson
HR Business Partner
North Yorkshire Council
Martha Dudman
Organisational Development & Employee Experience Lead
Somerset Council
Susie Hunter-Jones
People Policy Manager
Kent County Council
Rebecca King
Interim Director of People Services
East Riding of Yorkshire Council
Sophie Lingard
HR & OD Business Manager
Wigan Council
We look forward to following their journey throughout the programme and sharing their experiences along the way.
Hear from our latest Peer of the Year
Hear from 2025/26 Peer of the Year Rachel Jones as she reflects on her experience of the programme, the impact it has had on her leadership journey and why she would encourage others to apply.
Why choose Peer Into the Future?
Why this programme?
Today’s public sector organisations need HR and OD leaders who think strategically, influence confidently and lead meaningful change.
Peer Into the Future is designed to help experienced professionals step beyond operational leadership, strengthen their strategic capability and develop the confidence to influence at executive level.
Combining expert-led learning, coaching, reflection and peer support, the programme provides practical tools and lasting professional networks that continue well beyond the final module.
What you’ll gain
⭐ Strategic leadership skills
Develop your confidence to influence organisational direction.
🤝 National peer network
Build relationships with HR and OD leaders from across the UK.
💡 Learn from experts
Hear directly from recognised leaders in public service, organisational development and leadership.
🧠 Executive coaching
Benefit from professional coaching and structured reflection throughout the programme.
📈 Increase your impact
Strengthen your leadership presence, confidence and personal brand.
🎓 PPMA Alumni Network
Join an established community of Peer graduates for continued support and collaboration.
Who should apply?
Current HR and OD professionals working strategically.
Professionals preparing for Assistant Director, Director or equivalent leadership roles.
People looking to broaden their influence across organisational strategy, culture and transformation.
Programme format
Programme at a glance
📍 Six one-day modules
📍360 Feedback
📍 Blend of virtual and face-to-face learning
📍 Practical workshops
📍 Executive coaching
📍 Reflection between modules
📍 National peer cohort
.
Meet This Years Speakers
Confirmed Speakers:
- Angela O’Connor – The HR Lounge
- Alistair Williams – Creation Consultancy
- Anj Popat – Associate Director, Tile Hill
- Professor Beverly Alimo-Metcalfe – Real World Group
- Chantelle Wooldridge – Senior Consultant, Tile Hill
- Emma Pennycard – Life Balance Coach, BeCoaching
- Julie Biggs – PPMA Talent Programmes and Awards Manager
- Dr Kathryn Waddington – Coaching Psychologist, University of Westminster
- Leatham Green – Transformation Director, Oracle
- Nadira Hussain – Chief Executive Officer, Socitm
- Sandra Farquharson– PPMA President and Director of HR & OD, London Borough of Hackney
- Trudy Forster – Assistant Chief Executive at North Yorkshire Council and PPMA Vice President
What Participants Say
“The Peer programme has undoubtedly been the best development programme I have undertaken in my 17 years of service.”
“Creating a space for us to reflect on our legacies, aspirations and where we are now has been invaluable.”
“The programme is exactly what I needed. The reputation of the programme is well deserved.”
“Every session left me feeling uplifted and wanting more.”
“The networking opportunities were invaluable.”
“Excellent selection of speakers with a fantastic mix of expertise.”
Programme Outcomes
By the end of the programme you’ll be able to:
✓ Lead with greater confidence
✓ Strengthen your strategic influence
✓ Build your personal leadership brand
✓ Evaluate organisational impact
✓ Develop a national professional network
✓ Apply practical leadership tools within your organisation
Questions?
If you have any questions in the meantime you can email [email protected] or Julie Biggs at [email protected]
Past Programmes
You can find out much more about our recent Peer events and read some previous blogs here:
Hear from past participants about the Peer into the Future Programme
Meet our Programme Speakers:
Professor Beverly Alimo-Metcalfe – PhD, MBA, MSC, CPsychol, FBPS and Founding Director of Real World Group
Julie Biggs, PPMA Talent Programmes and Awards Manager
Sandra Farquharson , PPMA President
Trudy Forster, PPMA Vice President and Assistant Chief Executive at North Yorkshire Council
Sonia Grewal, Chief Operating Officer at Swindon Borough Council
Leatham Green, Transformation Director, Oracle
Nadira Hussain, Chief Executive, Socitm
Anj Popat, Associate Director, Tile Hill
Angela O’Connor, The HR Lounge
Emma Pennycard – BeCoaching – Life Balance Coach & Trainer
Dr Kathryn Waddington, University of Westminster, London
Chantelle Wooldridge, Senior Consultant, Tile Hill
Alistair Williams – Creation Consultancy
