Empowering The Next Generation of Business Leaders

The Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the University of Edinburgh, presents the Rising Stars Development Programme – a six-session, in-person leadership training course in Edinburgh designed to accelerate the growth of early-career professionals and aspiring future leaders.

Building on the success of our Rising Stars Networking Evenings, the programme combines academic expertise, hands-on learning, and real-world insights from senior business leaders – offering professional development training in Edinburgh that helps businesses invest in emerging talent and strengthen their leadership pipeline.

Who Should Apply

The programme is tailored for:

  • Early-career professionals ready to step into leadership roles in the business community.
  • Identified “rising stars” within organisations.
  • Ambitious individuals seeking to expand their professional toolkit, business acumen, expand their networks and personal brand.

What Participants Will Gain

Participants will:

  • Develop strategic thinking skills using AI and innovation tools.
  • Strengthen emotional intelligence and resilience.
  • Gain practical approaches to leading high-performing teams.
  • Enhance communication and presentation skills.
  • Build a personal leadership brand that supports career progression.
  • Expand their professional network across sectors.

For Employers: Invest in Your Future Leaders

Developing the next generation of leaders is vital for long-term business success. By enrolling employees, organisations can:

  • Build strong succession planning pathways.
  • Retain and engage top talent.
  • Support a culture of continuous learning.
  • Strengthen leadership capacity across Edinburgh’s business community.

Key Dates & Sessions

All sessions are in person at the Edinburgh Futures Institute at the University of Edinburgh, and run from 9:00 – 12:15.

  • Session 1: Beyond Gut Feel – AI-Enhanced Strategic Thinking (22/01/2026)
  • Session 2: Emotional Intelligence & Self-Management (5/02/2026)
  • Session 3: Leadership & Team Dynamics (19/02/2026)
  • Session 4: Effective Communication & Presentation Skills (05/03/2026)
  • Session 5: Developing Your Leadership / Personal Branding Roadmap (19/03/2026)
  • Session 6: Innovation & Problem Solving (02/04/2026)

Programme Fee

  • Member Rate: £1,500 + VAT
  • Non-Member Rate: £1,700 + VAT
  • Registration deadline: 08/01/2026

Cancellation Policy

  • Full refund available for cancellations made 28 days or more before the programme start date.
  • No refund for cancellations received less than 28 days before the start date.
  • Substitutions are permitted at no extra cost if arranged 14 days or more before the programme begins.
  • Please note: refunds cannot be offered for missed individual sessions.

For full information view our  brochure here.

For bookings, contact training@edinburghchamber.co.uk or call 0131 221 2999.