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Q&A: Aspiring Public Health Leaders Programme (Cohort 9)

When

2 July 2026    
14:00 - 15:00

Event Type

  • Training & Development
  • Workforce

Applications are now open for Cohort 9 of the Aspiring Public Health Leaders Programme (formerly the Aspiring Directors of Public Health Programme).

The programme, provided by the University of Birmingham, supports the development of senior leaders capable of system-wide, collaborative leadership to improve population health outcomes. It combines in-person and online immersive workshops, coaching, and reflective practice to prepare participants for senior public health roles.

Eligibility

This programme is aimed at individuals who:

  • Have at least 2 years’ experience in public health leadership roles; and
  • Aspire to move into a senior leadership role (e.g. Local Authority Director of Public Health, ICB Director of Population Health, Deputy Director roles in UKHSA or OHID) within the next three years; or
  • Are currently occupying a similar role on an interim basis.

This year, we would particularly welcome applications from people living or working in areas that are undergoing local government reorganisation that may create new Director of Public Health posts.

Application Process

  • Applicants must secure a sponsor (line manager or organisational sponsor), who will complete the sponsor form included in the application pack. As this is a key part of the selection process, applicants should allow sufficient time to coordinate with their sponsor ahead of the deadline.
  • The programme providers will host a 1-hour live Q&A session on 2 July at 2pm to support prospective applicants and answer any questions about the programme or application process.
  • Applications should be submitted by email to bli@contacts.bham.ac.uk.

Key dates:

  • 1-hour live Q&A session:  2pm on 2 July 2026 Register here
  • Application deadline:  12pm on Friday 31 July 2026
  • Notification of application outcomes:  10 October 2026
  • Programme start date (Module 1):  2 December 2026

If you have any further queries, please don’t hesitate to contact Caroline and Joe via phworkforcestrategy@dhsc.gov.uk.

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