Abstract
This research study explores the profound impact of leadership development programmes on the career success and leadership perceptions of senior executives. The study delves into the critical role of these programmes in shaping leadership competencies, adaptability, self-awareness and strategic thinking, thus providing a comprehensive understanding of their significance.
A qualitative research approach was employed, featuring semi-structured interviews with a select sample of senior executives from a single financial institution. This approach allowed for an in-depth exploration of the experiences and perceptions of these senior leaders who had participated in leadership development programmes.
The research extracted and analysed nine overarching themes from the interviews, each supported by a range of sub-themes. These themes encompassed the role of leadership development programmes, effective leadership, career advancement, leadership skill development, organisational approaches, senior leadership traits, definitions of career success and strategies for career progression.
The study introduced a proposed conceptual model illustrating the relationship between senior executives attending leadership development programmes and their long-term career success. This model encompasses moderating variables related to the organisation, individual leaders and the programmes themselves, as well as mediating variables including opportunities, definitions of success, networking, opportunity evaluation and personal growth.
Keywords: leadership development programmes; senior executives; career success; leadership competencies; self-awareness; adaptability; organisational approaches; leadership traits.