West Coast Leadership Programme 2019
The 2019 West Coast Leadership Programme wrapped up on Thursday in Greymouth with fifteen new graduates from a range of West Coast industries and sectors.
Facilitated by Development West Coast (DWC) and delivered by the New Zealand Institute of Management and Leadership (NZIML), the seven-month programme held across the Coast included workshops on the core facets of leadership and management.
DWC events coordinator Rachel Doolan says the programme offers a unique learning opportunity for new team leaders and those progressing in their careers to build their leadership capabilities, advance their knowledge and deliver results.
“The current pool of graduates is an enthusiastic group who will apply what they have learned to their own careers and businesses,” Rachel says.
Since its launch in 2001, the content of the programme has been constantly evolving to meet the needs of the region. Close to 90 West Coasters have now graduated from DWC’s Leadership Programme.
Past graduates include Buller Mayor, Jamie Cleine, and local government officials. Other graduates have gone on to join boards of West Coast and New Zealand businesses, not-for-profit organisations and community groups.
DWC Chair Renee Rooney graduated from the Leadership Programme in 2015 and stresses its importance for the West Coast.
“This programme is a fantastic opportunity for growing and supporting our West Coast talent pool. Having more people in our communities with strong leadership capabilities is of immense importance to our region for its growth, success and sustainability into the future,” Renee says.
“Holding a programme of this calibre locally ensures participants don’t have to travel off the Coast to other cities to attend. But more importantly, it provides a setting for current and future Coast leaders to network amongst each other, build relationships and keep connected.”
Therese Le Porte from NZIML said the graduation marked the close of some great discussions throughout the series of workshops.
“I hope it will mark the start of a network of local leaders who will continue to share conversations and ideas about leadership and work on the West Coast,” she says.
Travis Terry from Ngāi Tahu Forestry participated in the programme saying it gives you a great foundation to grow in a management role.
“I would recommend the DWC Leadership Programme for anyone starting out in a management role or working in a leadership role and wanting to grow their capabilities to further their career.”
For expressions of interest for the programme next year contact Rachel at DWC on 03 769 7000 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Previous Leadership and Governance graduates:
2018 Graduates
2017 Graduates
2016 Graduates
2015 Graduates
2013 Graduates