The Academy is a free leadership development programme, specifically for high potential leaders currently in, or identified for, executive roles in the future.

The 2023 Academy begins on 27 June with an online session, followed by a four-day residential programme, 10 – 13 July in London; the deadline for applications is 4 June. More below.

Founded in 2008, the American Express Leadership Academy builds the personal, business and leadership skills of high potential non-profit and social purpose leaders through multi-day, in-person training. In keeping with this vision, the Academy was launched in partnership with Common Purpose in 2010. Please click here to learn more about the Academy.

This year’s programme is designed to support a new generation of Resilient Changemakers and will convene 50 participants who will meet with established non-profit leaders, senior leaders from a range of other sectors and American Express senior executives. We are looking for:

High potential leaders, currently in or identified for executive roles in the future, having an average of five to eight years of experience in the social sector or equivalent.
High potential leaders that are at a unique transition point in their professional trajectory where the American Express Leadership Academy can help to accelerate their growth.

These leaders will:

Be in roles that require them to accelerate their ability to influence inside and outside of their organizations.
Have a track record of innovation, embracing change, and want to transform their team, organization and community.
Have a desire and readiness to be supported in public speaking and tell their story to a broader audience.
Work for a registered non-profit and / or social enterprise organization
Be able to fully commit to all parts of the American Express Leadership including attendance at the in-person Academy, online sessions, engagement with peers, and commitment to being active in the community of Resilient Changemakers we are striving to develop.

The programme is fully funded by American Express. A competitive selection process will determine the final 50 participants who will join the 2023 Academy in London in June. The deadline for applications is Sunday 4 June. The application form can be found here.

Fully-funded support programme for Leadership Development in the non-profit sector - By American Express