The Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Centre (SAIC) in Scotland is calling upon emerging leaders from across the sector to take part in its Leadership Development Programme, which it says is the only scheme of its kind that’s specifically-designed for people working in aquaculture.
Delivered in partnership with Skillfluence, the initiative aims to equip participants with the tools, skills and confidence to lead under pressure and build successful teams, as well as providing one-to-one coaching and mentoring throughout. Workshops will focus on motivating team members, public speaking, managing conflict successfully and more.
The programme has been designed to support a growing and diverse workforce, as well as addressing the need to boost managerial skills to prepare the next generation of leaders to step into senior positions. All areas of the sector will be included – from finfish and shellfish to seaweed and the supply chain. Past participants have included aquaculture farm managers, logistics planners, environmental analysts, innovation officers and fish health specialists.
Cooke Aquaculture Scotland Assistant Supply Chain Manager Nicola Forrester said the course helped her to step out of her comfort zone and learn to be a more effective leader.
“Working in the aquaculture supply chain can be complex and fast-paced, so it is crucial to lead by example and create cultures and environments that boost morale,” she said.
This year’s agenda has been adapted to incorporate face-to-face sessions which participants found especially valuable. These have been scheduled in accordance with the seasonal peaks and troughs of seafood production cycles.
“Given aquaculture’s roots in remote and rural locations, managerial roles can often mean working in isolation and managing disparate teams. This is no mean feat for any manager, but the diverse nature of the sector also means dealing with a range of specialisms and challenges on any given day – from office-based tasks to supply chain management and on-farm support,” SAIC Director of Engagement and Innovation Sarah Riddle said.
“People are the core of any business and by supporting future leaders we can help to build the workforce we need to nurture a successful, sustainable Scottish aquaculture sector,” she said. “We want to support the young leaders in this programme specially designed to help people build confidence, and improve communication and other soft skills. It also offers participants the chance to get together with others at a similar career juncture and build professional networks of like-minded people.”
Up to 25 spaces are available for the Leadership Development Programme, and the two-day kick-off session takes place on 25 and 26 April at the Dunblane Hydro Hotel. Applications close on 7 April.
For more information, visit: www.sustainableaquaculture.com/skills-training/leadership-development-programme
