By Melanie Robertson, Head of Department of Fashion, Nottingham Trent University
I wanted to share my experience of the CHEAD Creative Leadership Programme; it has made a real impact on me, both personally and professionally. Writing this blog has also given me the chance to pause and reflect on what resonated most, and how I've applied those learnings to my own leadership practice.
To be honest, I was already comfortable with my leadership style. Over 25 years of leading teams in both industry and higher education, I've learnt a lot. But I felt it was time for a refresh and to explore what a creative leadership programme could offer beyond the more traditional management courses I'd attended in the past.
The timing couldn't have been better. Following the merging of our two Fashion departments, my team had effectively doubled in size, bringing together different cultures, working practices and expectations. It felt like the ideal time to revisit my leadership approach.
Having attended several leadership courses over the years, I expected the usual business models and those role-play exercises that everyone participates in but secretly dreads. Instead, I found something completely different. The programme was engaging, thought-provoking and deeply reflective. What resonated most wasn't any one session or activity, but the holistic journey. It gave me the space to reflect on my values, leadership approach and sense of purpose, helping me lead with greater clarity and authenticity.
One of the most valuable aspects of the programme was sharing the experience with an inspiring group of creatives from different institutions and disciplines, including artists, poets, architects, illustrators and designers. The programme created a safe space to share challenges, aspirations and experiences, which was surprisingly cathartic. I completed the programme not only with renewed confidence, but also with trusted peers, fresh perspectives and friendships that have continued beyond it.
I'll admit I was initially a little sceptical about some of the earlier activities. But I soon came to realise how exploring embodied leadership helped me appreciate the importance of presence, self-awareness and creating space to think and breathe. It reinforced my values and helped me become more intentional in how I lead.
Since completing the programme, I've adopted a more collaborative and co-creative approach, placing greater emphasis on trust, empathy and deep listening. I've applied these principles in leading a Ways of Working project, using Appreciative Inquiry to engage my team in finding sustainable solutions to workload challenges. The process required courage and openness, but strengthened trust, transparency and collective ownership across the department.