Hello PPMA members and friends

I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the value of our talent programmes. They’re a core part of the PPMA offering and have always been popular. I was absolutely delighted to see that our Rising Star and One to Watch programmes have attracted record numbers this year, resulting in us running an extra 2 days at Warwick Business School over the summer, so that people don’t miss out on such a great opportunity.

A quick plug for Peer into the Future – it’s open now for nominations, with a closing date of 10th August. Aimed at future HR leaders and those already working in strategic roles, it’s a modular programme with a mix of theory, leading practice and real world practical inputs. Participant feedback has always been very positive, and here’s last years’ winner Swati Bisht-Rawat, Head of Talent, Performance and Innovation at Westminster Council talking about her experience.

There are more details about the programme and how to apply, on the PPMA website!

Looking at the benefits in more general terms across all our programmes, they’re a great way of accessing professional and personal development, and taking more control of your future. The networking opportunities are invaluable, and they are also an opportunity to gain a broader view about our business, our profession and to take time to reflect.

It’s really important that as a profession, we think about succession planning, that we nurture talent, that we think about succession planning, and the PPMA has a valuable part to play in that.

If you would like to find out more about any of our talent programmes or would like to be part of this year’s Peer into the Future cohort, then visit our website

We wish all of our Talent Programme participants the best of luck, and hope that you all have an amazing time!

Gordon McFarlane

PPMA President