Events

Full Day Leadership Masterclass

Join us for a one-day leadership masterclass that’s designed to give you proven tools, practical skills, and the confidence to lead more effectively.

This full-day event on Thursday 22nd January includes three highly practical workshops, delivered in partnership with JJ Lynch, Managing Director of Leading Edge Leadership, a recognised expert in developing managers across the UK.

Why This Day Matters
According to Gallup, managers account for 70% of variance in employee engagement, and organisations with highly engaged employees see 59% less turnover.  A CIPD survey found that two-thirds of employees leave their role due to poor management.

Good managers don’t just manage performance — they retain talent, boost productivity, and build resilient teams.

This day focuses on the three biggest areas managers struggle with, and where development has the biggest impact on retention and results:

1 - How to Excel as a Manager

Identify the 7 traits of excellent managers and how they impact culture.

Learn how to “grow” yourself — and others — as effective leaders.

Discover your preferred management style and how it affects your team.

- Why it matters: 58% of employees say they’ve left a job because of their manager. Managers who understand their style and actively grow themselves create higher trust and loyalty.

2 - How to Manage Performance

Learn the right way to write SMART objectives that drive clarity and accountability.

Master the art of informal conversations that matter.

Apply the 20:80 rule to ensure performance reviews are engaging and effective.

- Why it matters: Employees who receive meaningful feedback are 3.5x more likely to be engaged. Clear expectations and consistent reviews reduce frustration and increase commitment.

How to Hold a Challenging Conversation

Master the 4-Step Challenging Conversation Model: environment, information, understanding, and action planning.

Develop techniques to handle feedback, conflict, and sensitive issues with empathy.

Practice real-world roleplays to gain confidence in handling tough situations.

- Why it matters: 57% of employees report that their managers avoid difficult conversations. Yet, teams with open, honest communication are 50% more likely to have lower turnover.

About Your Trainer: JJ Lynch

JJ Lynch, Managing Director of Leading Edge Leadership, has spent decades helping leaders and managers develop practical skills that make a real difference. Known for his engaging, fast paced and interactive style, JJ is passionate about making leadership simple, effective, and human.

He has trained leaders across sectors, equipping them with the tools to manage people, boost performance, and create cultures where employees want to stay.

The Details

Date - Thursday 22nd January 2026

Timings - 9.00am-4.00pm - training to be delivered from 9.30am - 3.30pm

Venue - The Business & Technology Centre, Bessemer Drive, Stevenage, Herts. SG1 2DX

Cost - £250 per person including lunch, drinks and refreshments

Invest just one day. Walk away with skills, strategies, and confidence that will transform the way you lead your team — and keep your best people engaged.

We’d love to welcome you on Thursday 22nd January. To reserve your spot please email sarah.leete@lawrencedeanrecruitment.co.uk