Unwrapping professional growth: A reflection on the Tri–sector Challenge
By Matthew Hotten, Senior Consultant – Leadership & Organisational Development, West Midlands Employers
As we approach the end of the year, it’s a fitting time to reflect on our professional development and set new ambitions for 2025.
This year’s Tri-sector Challenge event has been a significant highlight, offering valuable insights and experiences that will shape our paths forward. This year’s challenge brought together 86 potential leaders from 13 teams, creating an enriching environment where diverse perspectives could thrive. Participants engaged in simulations that tested their abilities to handle ambiguity, manage competing priorities, and make decisions with incomplete information—skills that are crucial for effective leadership in the public sector.
From this year’s event, several key lessons emerged:
Building cross-sector relationships: The challenge emphasised the importance of collaboration across sectors, fostering connections that will benefit participants long after the event.
Developing resilience: Participants learned to navigate challenges with adaptability, preparing them for the dynamic nature of public service.
Practical strategies: Many left with actionable strategies that they could implement in their organisations immediately.
As one participant noted, “The Trisector Challenge was a game-changer – I walked away with practical, cross-sector strategies that we’re already implementing in our organisation.”
Reflecting during the holiday season As we enter this reflective period, consider taking time to consider your own professional journey:
What skills did you develop this year? Think about how these can enhance your contributions in 2025.
What challenges did you overcome? Reflect on how these experiences can inform your approach to future obstacles.
What new ambitions can you set for yourself? Use this time to envision your goals for the coming year.
For those who missed out on this transformative experience, don’t worry—there’s still time to get involved. The next Trisector Challenge is just around the corner, ready to offer you a platform for growth and collaboration.
As we prepare for 2025, let’s carry forward the lessons learned from this year’s challenge and aim high in our ambitions. The skills developed during the Trisector Challenge will continue to be at the forefront of public sector leadership development as we navigate the complexities of modern governance.
To keep yourself ticking over until the next Tri-sector Challenge, consider exploring the 21st Century Public Servant framework developed by the University of Birmingham. This innovative tool, recently updated with ten new characteristics for our brave new world, offers valuable insights into the evolving nature of public service and can help you reflect on your experiences and set meaningful goals for the coming year.
By engaging with these concepts, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of future leadership development opportunities and realise your professional ambitions. Here’s to unwrapping a successful and impactful professional future in 2025!
