Good Employment Charter leadership series – Leading Forward: Lessons from This Year, Priorities for the Next (Stockport)
As the year draws to a close, this session creates space to step back and reflect on what has worked, what has not, and what needs to change moving forward. Strong leadership is not just about driving performance in the moment, but about learning, adapting and setting a clear direction for what comes next.
We will explore the key leadership lessons from the past year, from managing pressure and navigating uncertainty to keeping teams aligned and motivated when priorities shift. Just as importantly, we will look ahead to the coming year, focusing on how to reset direction, sharpen focus and build momentum early.
This is a practical, forward-looking session designed to help you reflect with purpose and leave with clear priorities. You will gain simple, actionable ways to strengthen communication, improve accountability and create a culture that is ready for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
About the Speakers:
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.
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.
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]
