Good Employment Charter leadership series: Leadership That Supports Growth and Change (Salford)
As businesses grow and evolve, leadership needs to adapt to new challenges and opportunities. This session focuses on how to lead effectively through change, maintain team engagement, and build a culture that supports performance and accountability.
We will explore practical approaches to communication, performance management, and development, helping you create an environment where your team can perform at their best. Whether you are managing a growing team, navigating change, or looking to strengthen your leadership impact, you will leave with clear, actionable ideas to drive both people and business forward.
About the Speakers:
An exiled Scotsman, Ian has spent his career working on environmental and public health issues – and the socioeconomic policies that underpin them – from community to international levels.
Starting his career as an environmental health officer with Carlisle City Council, he has worked in delivery, policy and leadership roles for Edinburgh City Council, the Health and Safety Executive, the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, The World Health Organisation (Euro), the UK Public Health Association, Groundwork UK and The Growth Company.
Since March 2019, he has led the development and implementation of the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter, – an initiative established by the Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham in his first term and now a major policy foundation to help address employment related inequalities and build economic and social resilience in his second.
Gillian is an experienced chair, non-executive director, advisor, and mentor, with a strong track record of supporting purpose-driven organisations that prioritise people and growth. Currently holding a number of NED role, Gillian serves as Chair of Back on Track, a Manchester-based charity, and as a Board Member of the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter.
With extensive leadership experience in global retail, Gillian has held pivotal roles within IKEA Group across diverse international markets. She was CEO for IKEA in China, UK & Ireland, and more recently, led IKEA’s global consumer experience. Her career has been defined by a passion for making a meaningful difference to both people and businesses. She is known for driving business growth and sustained profitability by fostering inclusive organisational cultures and transforming business practices.
Gillian’s leadership at IKEA UK led to a significant milestone in 2017 when the company became the first large retailer to achieve accreditation as a Real Living Wage Employer. This achievement highlights her long-term commitment to humanistic values—believing that when employees receive fair compensation and positive working conditions, it not only boosts their well-being but also enhances customer experiences, driving long-term growth and success for the business.
Neal has spent his career working to build the effectiveness of people and the organisations they are part of; first as an HR Director and later as a Learning and OD Consultant. Neal has worked in large organisations in in sectors ranging from Pharmaceuticals to FMCG , Chemicals and Higher Education. He has also served as a Non-Executive Director in the NHS and with a regional orchestra. Neal is an accredited user with multiple psychometric tools including StrengthScope, MBTI, Wave, and Extended DISC. Neal is an accredited practitioner with the International Coaching Federation (ICF ACC), and is qualified to use the Three Brains Coaching model.
Interested In The Event?
If you’re interested in attending, you can book online here.
For any further enquires about this event, contact [email protected]
