Ethnic Minorities into Leadership Birmingham

Thursday 27th February 2025
▶︎ In partnership with the FDA

Now in its fourteenth year, the annual Ethnic Minorities into Leadership conference has established itself as the key event for those interested in enhancing the capabilities & leadership opportunities for Ethnic Minority Civil Servants. The conference and speakers will examine how ethnic minority individuals, at any grade, can continue to overcome barriers, build networks and become the leaders they aspire to be.

Drawing on the strengths of previous events, this year's conference will centre on driving professional development. It will offer hands-on advice, practical steps and coaching on how to adapt to new environments, expand networks, utilise opportunities effectively and further your career in times of change.

Attendees will hear from inspirational speakers, of all levels, from both within and outside the Civil Service. Plus learn valuable strategies on how to manage the challenges of modern leadership and help ensure the Civil Service doesn't lose momentum in recruiting, retaining and rewarding black, Asian and ethnic minority leaders.   

This event is CPD-Certified and will contribute to your professional development.

Why attend?

• Examine the barriers & enablers affecting your progression
• Receive hands-on advice & coaching for your professional development 
• Gain a deeper understanding of the skills, qualities and competencies required to be a successful leader
• Hear from senior Ethnic Minority leaders on how to succeed 
• Network with peers & counterparts from across the public sector also trying to further their careers 
• Hear from inspirational speakers of all grades and levels from across the public and private sectors

08:30

Registration 

09:20

Chair's Welcome and Introduction

CHAIR: Prudencia Orridge, Customs Fraud Lead, HMRC

09:30

Opening Address

Purpose-driven leadership: leading with purpose and inspiring a positive culture of inclusion in challenging times

Justin Placide, Head of Ministerial Briefing, Business Management and Fiscal Events, Department for Energy Security and Net Zero; Co-Chair of The FAME Network and The Civil Service Race Forum

10:05

Transition to breakout sessions

10:15

Breakout session A: Communicating for results: how to negotiate with confidence 

Cath Baxter, Professional Voice and Public Speaking Consultant & former Head of Voice, Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts

10:15

Breakout session B: Preparing for your next role: are you ready for a promotion?

Richard Hillsdon, Civil Service Selection Consultant, ex-Senior Civil Servant

11:15

Refreshments & Networking

11:45

Plenary Address 

Authenticity: determining your personal leadership style and priorities with confidence

Onen Eyong, Evidence Impact Area Coordinator, Office for Product Safety and Standards, Department for Business and Trade 

12:20

Transition to breakout sessions

12:30

Breakout session C: Introversion in Leadership: unleashing your quiet power

Dina Rana, Executive Coach, Dina Rana Coaching

12:30

Breakout session D: Writing to impress: an interactive masterclass on selection and promotion

Richard Hillsdon, Civil Service Selection Consultant, ex-Senior Civil Servant

13:30

Networking Lunch

14:30

Afternoon Plenary Address 

Leading from the middle: developing your profile and creating impact at any grade

Saima Rafiq, Head of Inclusive Recruitment, Ministry of Justice

15:10

Closing Address 

From imposter to empowered: rewriting the story to smash your own glass ceiling

Trevor Sterling, Senior Partner, Moore Barlow; Founder, Be The Ladder

15:50

Chair's Closing Remarks

CHAIR: Prudencia Orridge, Customs Fraud Lead, HMRC