2026: The End of Funded Senior Leadership — and the Rise of Strategic Investment

2026 marks a significant turning point for leadership development in the UK, driven by two changes that are converging at exactly the same time.

On the one hand, the tax environment is becoming more complex and more demanding. Higher employer National Insurance, increases in capital gains tax, frozen income tax thresholds and reduced inheritance tax relief are all adding pressure for business owners and senior leaders. Alongside this, organisations are being pushed towards greater digitisation, automation and governance, with further compliance changes already on the horizon. The result is an environment where leadership judgement, strategic thinking and the ability to manage change are no longer optional capabilities.

At the same time, public funding for the Level 7 Senior Leader apprenticeship is being withdrawn for most adult learners from January 2026. While existing apprentices will be protected, the pipeline for developing future senior leaders through publicly funded routes is narrowing rapidly. For many organisations, advanced leadership development will now need to be funded directly, outside of the apprenticeship system.

Together, these shifts are changing behaviour. Employers are becoming far more selective about where they invest. Senior leaders want development that is flexible, credible and clearly aligned to real organisational challenges, not programmes designed primarily to fit funding rules.

At Next Level Impact, as a private training provider, we are already seeing this change play out. Demand is moving towards high-impact, professionally recognised programmes that can be delivered flexibly, linked directly to strategic priorities, and provide tangible return on investment. In a more constrained and uncertain environment, organisations are looking for development that strengthens leadership capability quickly and meaningfully.

The message for 2026 is clear. Public funding routes may be narrowing and tax pressures increasing, but the need for strong leadership, strategic capability and professional credibility has never been greater. Those organisations that continue to invest thoughtfully in their leaders will be best placed to navigate complexity and drive sustainable growth.

#LeadershipDevelopment #SeniorLeadership #Level7 #Apprenticeships #TaxChange #PrivateTrainingProvider #ProfessionalGrowth #NextLevelImpact

Leading Through Coaching: Unlocking Potential at Kingsbridge

Next Level Impact has recently completed an executive coaching series with managers at Kingsbridge, focused on developing leadership capability through coaching rather than command-and-control approaches.

The programme was designed to help managers lead through better conversations. It began with coaching fundamentals and naturally expanded to include emotional intelligence, people and performance management, learning in the workplace, and behavioural insight. These areas were explored because they directly strengthen a manager’s ability to coach effectively in real, high-pressure healthcare environments.

Throughout the series, managers reflected on how they communicate under pressure, how they respond emotionally in challenging situations, and how their leadership behaviours influence team confidence, engagement and performance. Practical frameworks such as personality insight and the SCARF model were used as lenses to support awareness, adaptability and trust, rather than as labels or theoretical constructs.

What made this programme particularly impactful was the way learning was applied immediately in practice. Managers tested new approaches in real conversations, supported learning and cross-training within their teams, and used coaching to balance compassion with accountability. Feedback from participants highlights meaningful changes in how conversations are approached, how teams are supported, and how potential is developed day to day.

Leading in healthcare requires more than technical expertise. It requires judgement, emotional awareness and the ability to bring out the best in others. The managers who took part in this coaching series demonstrated these qualities throughout, and their commitment to developing themselves and their teams is clear.

We would like to congratulate everyone involved and thank Kingsbridge for its continued investment in coaching-led leadership. The impact of this work is already being felt, and it provides a strong foundation for continued growth and development across the organisation.

Featured Learner: Calvin Chen CMgr FCMI, MBA, MSc, PgCert, BSc(Hons) Associate Director, Clinical Operations — Shionogi Europe (SBV)

A Journey of Lifelong Learning and Leadership Excellence

Calvin Chen is a distinguished leader in the pharmaceutical sector, currently serving as Associate Director of Clinical Operations at Shionogi Europe, where he plays a pivotal role in driving operational excellence across international clinical trials. With a robust academic background and a deep commitment to professional growth, Calvin exemplifies the calibre of leader who continually seeks to enhance capability and inspire others.

Motivation and the CMI Pathway

Calvin’s professional development journey began in 2019 when he first discovered the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) while researching Executive MBA programmes. Drawn to the CMI’s global recognition, structured approach, and emphasis on applied leadership, Calvin chose to pursue a CMI qualification as a practical, high-impact alternative to traditional academic routes.

“The CMI offered a flexible, respected pathway to strengthen my leadership skills and connect with a professional community dedicated to continuous growth,” Calvin explains.

Next Level Impact and Mentorship

Calvin has successfully completed multiple Chartered Management Institute (CMI) qualifications, including the Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership, the Level 7 Diploma in Leadership Coaching and Mentoring, and most recently the Level 8 Certificate in Strategic Direction and Leadership. Under the mentorship of Martin Rice, NLI’s CEO, Calvin developed greater strategic insight and a deeper understanding of leadership at the highest organisational level.

“Martin’s direct approach and dedication made the learning experience outstanding,” Calvin reflects. “His feedback was always clear, constructive, and fast — helping me link strategic theory with real-world leadership practice.”

He later expanded his leadership development through further CMI learning, continuing to focus on practical application and professional excellence.

Impact and Application in Practice

Calvin credits his CMI studies with transforming his strategic thinking, communication, and decision-making capabilities. The learning experience strengthened his confidence as a leader and supported his advancement within the global pharmaceutical sector.

“I’ve been mentored and coached by outstanding professionals throughout my career, and I want to pass that on,” Calvin shares. “Through my CMI studies, I’ve been able to understand how to introduce a coaching culture within our organisation — empowering colleagues to learn, grow, and take ownership of their development.”

Advice for Future Learners

To those considering studying with the Chartered Management Institute and Next Level Impact, Calvin offers this advice:

“Don’t hesitate — CMI qualifications are globally recognised and help you develop the leadership capabilities that truly matter. The mentoring and support from Martin and the NLI team are exceptional — responsive, insightful, and tailored to your personal goals.”

Connect with Calvin

🔗 LinkedIn: Calvin Chen MSc MBA CMgr FCMI

Celebrating IMC Zimbabwe’s Achievement: Raising the Bar for Professional Consulting Standards

At Next Level Impact, we are delighted to celebrate the recent success of IMC Zimbabwe, who have officially achieved full compliance and accreditation following a comprehensive international assessment.

It was a privilege for me to lead the assessment on behalf of the International Council of Management Consulting Institutes (ICMCI). Throughout the visit, the Zimbabwean team demonstrated not only a deep commitment to professional excellence but also the warmth, hospitality, and integrity that truly embody the values of the consulting profession.

From the very first meeting, it was clear that IMC Zimbabwe’s leadership and members share a clear vision: to elevate the standards of management consulting across the region, promote ethical practice, and nurture a new generation of Chartered Management Consultants (ChMCs). Their professionalism, collaboration, and forward-thinking approach stood out as exemplary.

This achievement represents more than a successful audit — it’s a testament to Zimbabwe’s growing role in the global consulting community and to the passion and capability of those driving its development.

A sincere thank you to everyone involved in the process, and in particular to the IMC Zimbabwe team, whose dedication and hospitality made this assessment both productive and inspiring.

Congratulations once again to IMC Zimbabwe on this well-deserved recognition — a milestone that strengthens not only their national impact but also the shared mission of ICMCI to advance professional consulting standards worldwide.

Driving Excellence Through Internal Auditing at NINCCC

Congratulations to our colleagues at NINCCC on successfully completing their Internal Auditor training!

This achievement reflects their commitment to ensuring that high standards of quality and compliance are consistently upheld across the network. By strengthening its internal auditing capability, the team is helping to drive continuous improvement and support the ongoing delivery of excellence in everything it does.

Well done to all involved – your efforts will make a real difference in maintaining and enhancing standards across the organisation.

New Associate Announcement

We are delighted to welcome Rudo Angeline Samakomva as a new Associate. Rudo is a seasoned Human Resources and Business practitioner with over three decades of managerial, leadership, consulting, and board experience. Her career spans multiple sectors, including manufacturing, mining, financial services, insurance, health, printing and packaging, and the NGO sector.

Rudo is the Founder and Lead Consultant of Samara Corporate Consultants Limited, a Human Capital and management consulting firm. She is also a Certified Management Consultant (CMC) and holds a Master of Business Leadership (MBL) from UNISA, a BSc Honours in Psychology from the University of Zimbabwe, and an IPMZ Diploma. These academic achievements, combined with her wealth of practical experience, highlight her ability to bridge both human and business dimensions of organisational success.

Throughout her career, Rudo has held senior positions such as Executive Director and shareholder at Pacprint (Pvt) Ltd, Head-Group HR at Bindura Nickel Corporation/Freda Rebecca and Interfin Holdings, and HR Manager at Delta Beverages. She began her professional journey as a Manpower Services Officer at Olivine Industries and currently contributes her governance expertise as a non-executive board member for St. Anne’s Hospital, Vivat Health Solutions, and Audiomax (Pvt) Ltd.

Specialist Areas of Expertise

• Strategic Human Resources & Policy Development

• Organisational Development & Change Management

• Talent Acquisition, Development & Performance Management

• Compensation, Benefits & Employee Relations

• Training, Coaching & Mentorship

We look forward to the expertise and insights Rudo will bring to our network.

Great Choice Flooring Ltd's Founder Paul Baker Earns Prestigious CMI Strategic Direction and Leadership Diploma

In a remarkable journey marked by dedication, perseverance, and an unyielding commitment to excellence, Paul Baker, the founder of Great Choice Flooring Ltd, has achieved a remarkable milestone: the completion of the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) Strategic Direction and Leadership Diploma. This doctoral-level qualification stands as a testament to Paul's exceptional skills and visionary leadership, setting a new standard for strategic management within his company.

Paul's fascination with leadership ignited early in his career, influenced by the profound impact of exceptional leaders he encountered, including a notable Captain during his time in the armed forces. Recognizing the pivotal role of leadership in shaping team dynamics and performance, Paul was inspired to infuse these principles into the fabric of Great Choice Flooring Ltd.

Embarking on a journey of continuous learning and development, Paul progressed through the rigorous levels of training, culminating in the daunting Level 8 course. Despite initial doubts, Paul's resolve, coupled with mentorship from Martin, fortified his capabilities and propelled him to new heights of strategic acumen.

Reflecting on his transformative journey, Paul highlights the challenges encountered, notably in deciphering the intricate questions posed at Level 8. However, through tenacity and strategic deconstruction, Paul overcame these hurdles, emerging with newfound clarity and proficiency.

The impact of Paul's enhanced leadership capabilities reverberates throughout Great Choice Flooring Ltd, permeating its operations, culture, and overall success. Through deliberate actions informed by his CMI training, Paul has fostered a workplace culture characterized by harmony and discipline, catalyzing heightened performance and employee satisfaction.

Looking ahead, Paul envisions leveraging his expertise to steer Great Choice Flooring Ltd through evolving landscapes, particularly in addressing the rising threat of online sales. Armed with strategic insights gleaned from his diploma, Paul is poised to navigate challenges and seize opportunities, ensuring sustained growth and impact for his company.

In offering advice to fellow entrepreneurs and business owners, especially those with limited academic qualifications, Paul advocates for perseverance and a willingness to embrace challenges. He underscores the transformative power of education and the invaluable support offered by institutions like Next Level Impact.

Receiving recognition for his exceptional achievements brings a profound sense of fulfillment for Paul, underscoring the culmination of countless hours of dedication and sacrifice. With his sights set on the future, Paul stands ready to lead Great Choice Flooring Ltd to even greater heights, fueled by the indomitable spirit of innovation and excellence.

Join Our Team of CMI Assessors and Tutors at Next Level Impact!

Are you passionate about management and leadership education? Do you want to shape the next generation of leaders? Next Level Impact, a leading provider of professional qualifications for the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), is expanding our team of assessors and tutors! We offer a dynamic and rewarding opportunity for self-employed contractors to work with us on CMI programmes, from Level 3 (supervisor level) to Level 8 (doctoral level).

About the Role:

As a part of our team, you will:

• Assess and Tutor Across a Range of CMI Levels: Engage with learners at all stages of their management and leadership journey, from emerging supervisors to experienced doctoral candidates.

• Flexible and Remote Working: Enjoy the flexibility of remote work and manage your own schedule as a self-employed contractor.

• Collaborate with Industry Experts: Join a network of professionals dedicated to excellence in management education.

• Contribute to Lifelong Learning: Help shape the future of management by supporting learners in achieving their qualifications.

What We're Looking For:

• Qualified and Experienced Professionals: You should hold relevant qualifications and have substantial experience in management and leadership.

• Passionate Educators: A genuine passion for teaching and a commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

• Excellent Communicators: Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential for guiding and assessing learners effectively.

• Self-Motivated and Organised: As self-employed contractors, you will manage your own time and responsibilities, so organisational skills are key.

Why Join Next Level Impact?

At Next Level Impact, we value innovation, integrity, and a learner-centric approach. We believe in investing in our team and providing opportunities for professional growth. As we expand our CMI programmes, we're looking for individuals who share our vision and commitment to high-quality education.

Apply Now!

If you're ready to make a difference and join a team that's transforming management education, we want to hear from you. To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter detailing your experience and qualifications to info@nextlevelimpact.com.

Join us at Next Level Impact and be a part of something transformative. Let's take management education to the next level together!

Martin Rice will be judging the Chartered Manager of the year Award 2024

We are pleased to announce that Martin Rice will be judging the Chartered Manager of the year award at the CMI Awards of Excellence 2024 with @Chartered Management Institute 🌟

These awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of CMI learners, training providers and managers & leaders.

Find out more here:

https://www.managers.org.uk/community/awards/chartered-manager-of-the-year/ #CMIAwards #CMIConfidence

Embarking on a Journey of Excellence: Next Level Impact Welcomes New Cohort of CMI Level 7 Diploma Candidates

In a moment brimming with promise and anticipation, Next Level Impact is delighted to extend a warm welcome to the latest cohort of candidates accepted onto the esteemed CMI Level 7 Diploma in Strategic Management and Leadership program. These individuals, handpicked for their exceptional potential and dedication to leadership excellence, are poised to embark on a transformative journey towards achieving this prestigious qualification.

As they set foot on this path of professional growth and development, it's important to recognize the significance of the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) and its renowned Level 7 Diploma. CMI, a globally recognized authority in leadership and management education, empowers aspiring leaders with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to navigate today's complex business landscape with strategic foresight and proficiency.

Securing acceptance onto the CMI Level 7 Diploma program is a testament to the candidates' ambition, drive, and commitment to personal and professional advancement. Over the course of this rigorous program, they will delve deep into advanced strategic concepts, honing their leadership capabilities and expanding their managerial toolkit to effectively address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

As the premier provider of CMI and related professional qualifications in Ireland, Next Level Impact takes great pride in guiding aspiring leaders on their journey towards excellence. Through our comprehensive curriculum, expert guidance, and supportive community, we are dedicated to nurturing the next generation of visionary leaders who will drive innovation, foster growth, and shape the future of businesses and economies.

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, leadership and management qualifications have never been more crucial. By investing in their professional development and embarking on this transformative journey, our candidates elevate their own career prospects and contribute to the overall resilience and competitiveness of the UK and Irish economies.

To our esteemed candidates, we extend our heartfelt congratulations on this momentous milestone and our best wishes for a fulfilling and successful journey ahead. As you embark on this transformative path, know that Next Level Impact is here to support and empower you every step of the way.

For those aspiring to unlock their leadership potential and join our esteemed cohort of CMI Level 7 Diploma candidates, we invite you to explore our website at www.nextlevelimpact.com and discover how you can take the next leap in your professional journey. Together, let us embark on a journey of growth, discovery, and unparalleled achievement.

🎉 Exciting Training Session at North Down Implant and Orthodontic Clinic! 🎉

I had the pleasure of leading a brand standards training session at North Down Implant and Orthodontic Clinic today, and I'm thrilled to share how impressed I am by the team's dedication and enthusiasm!

During the session, we discussed various strategies to enhance the patient experience, and I was blown away by the team's innovative ideas and suggestions. Their insights on improving internal communication, streamlining processes through process mapping, and driving continuous improvement across all aspects of the practice were truly remarkable.

I want to extend my sincere congratulations to the entire team for their active participation and valuable input. It's clear that their commitment to excellence will greatly benefit the clinic and its patients. Special kudos to the practice owner, Michael, for fostering a culture that values staff development and empowerment. By giving the team opportunities to work on the business as well as in the business, Michael is truly unlocking their full potential.

Here's to a bright future ahead for North Down Implant and Orthodontic Clinic! 🌟 #Teamwork #PatientExperience #ContinuousImprovement #Dentistry

Celebrating 15 Years of Unleashing Potential at Next Level Impact

As the CEO of Next Level Impact, I am thrilled to mark a significant milestone in our journey – our 15th anniversary. This momentous occasion is not just a reflection of the years gone by, but a testament to the relentless dedication, hard work, and passion of our team and everyone who has supported us along the way.

From our humble beginnings to becoming a leader in unleashing the potential of individuals and organizations, our journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Our commitment to providing executive coaching, tailored programs, and bespoke consultancy support has been unwavering. Together, we have navigated challenges, celebrated successes, and made a lasting impact on the many clients we've had the privilege to work with.

A special thank you to our clients, partners, and the dedicated team at Next Level Impact. Your trust, collaboration, and support have been integral to our success. As we look to the future, we are excited to continue this journey of growth and transformation.

Here's to the next chapter of innovation, impact, and excellence. Happy 15th Anniversary, Next Level Impact!

Martin Rice
CEO

#NextLevelImpact #Anniversary #CelebratingSuccess #Teamwork #Growth #Impact

Something BIGGER is coming in 2024!

Next Level Impact isn't just adding new programs, we're expanding horizons in leadership, management, and coaching to empower a wider range of professionals like you!

Ready to:

• Unlock your full potential with programs tailored to diverse career paths?

• Gain industry-recognized qualifications that boost your resume and open doors?

• Experience the Next Level difference with our 5-star Trustpilot rating and expert coaching?
  

Stay tuned! The exciting reveal is just around the corner. Get ready to elevate your career, unleash your leadership magic, and master new skills with Next Level Impact in 2024. We'll be unveiling:

• Brand-new programs designed for specific needs and aspirations.

• Flexible learning options to fit your busy schedule and goals.

• Unparalleled support and guidance from our team of experienced coaches.

• Exclusive early bird offers for those who join the journey first.

Don't miss out! Follow us and be the first to know when the doors open to a brighter, more fulfilling future.
#NewYearNewYou #NextLevelLeaders #EmpowerYourGrowth #leadershipdevelopment #leadershipcoaching

Translink Nurtures Future Leaders: CMI Level 5 Certificate Achievers

Congratulations to all the new leaders and managers from Translink who successfully completed the CMI level 5 certificate and management and leadership.

Delighted to introduce our latest Featured Associate...

Dr. Dennis Ufot

Dennis is an Engineering Economist, a Fellow and Chartered Manager of the Chartered Management Institute, UK. He has over thirty years of experience in the Oil & Gas industry having held several portfolios that included the Snr. Field Engineer, Crude oil Terminal Operations; Corporate Snr. Strategy and Business Planner, Regional Business Performance Analyst, Flares Down Technical & Business Solutions Lead, the Corporate Head of Hydrocarbon Allocation and Management, the Principal Operations Readiness and Assurance Engineer, etc.

He holds a PhD in Economics from Atlantic International University, USA; an MSc. in Engineering Management (Brunel University, UK) and a HND in Mechanical Engineering (College of Technology, Calabar). He is a Corporate Member of the Institute of Engineering Technology (IET) London, the Society of Petroleum Engineers, a Fellow of The Chartered Management Institute, a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultant, Nigeria; a Certified Management Specialist of the London Graduate School; and a Member Association of Non-Executive Directors, UK.

He served in various indigenous and international committees including The World Bank-facilitated Nigerian Flare gas Reduction Committee, the Nigerian National Gas Master Plan, etc. He has presented papers on Leadership, Management, Business Planning, and in technical disciplines locally in Nigeria, and abroad at various fora including the American Productivity and Quality Centre, The IET lectures, the University of Uyo Engineering Students forum, etc.

His hobbies include reading, writing, music, travelling, meeting people, soccer, and swimming. He has authored inspirational books hosted in Amazon that include:

➢ True Leaders: are God’s Representatives on Earth for good works

➢ The chapters of life

His specialist areas of expertise include:

• Leadership Development

• Business Process Improvement

• Technical Audit

• Facility Operations Readiness and Assurance

• Executive coaching, Learning and Development

McKees - first law firm in Northern Ireland to achieve the BS 76000 Valuing People Standard

Congratulations to McKees (https://www.mckees-law.com) on being the first law firm in Northern Ireland to achieve the BS 76000 Valuing People Standard. This is a fantastic achievement and shows their commitment and support to everyone that works in the firm and compliments the ISO 9001 and Lexcel accreditations already held. #people #lawfirm #BS76000 #solicitors #valuedriven

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