The Next Execs Program is a 10-month leadership development program designed to build the capability of aspiring public sector executives. It focuses on enhancing personal leadership, strategic thinking, governance knowledge, and the ability to lead digital transformation in a complex and evolving environment.

Participants can choose between two pathways:

• The Next Execs Program (Professional Development) Pathway: Focused on experiential learning and leadership development and is 6 weeks per module.
• Graduate Certificate in Public Sector Leadership Pathway: Includes additional academic readings and assessments, which is an extra 4 weeks per module.

Program modules

The program is structured around four core modules:

1. Managing self to lead others
   Develop self-awareness and emotional intelligence to lead with authenticity and impact.
2. Strategic leadership: Leading and managing change
   Build the skills to lead strategic initiatives, manage change, and influence outcomes across systems.
3. Public sector governance
   Deepen your understanding of governance frameworks, accountability, and ethical leadership in the public sector.
4. Leading in a transforming digital environment
   Explore the opportunities and challenges of digital transformation and learn to lead in a tech-enabled future.

Program structure

The Next Execs Program offers a blended learning experience with a mix of online and in-person components.

Each unit is delivered over 6-weeks (Professional Development pathway) or 10 weeks (Graduate Certificate pathway).

Each of the four 6-week modules includes:

• 5 weeks of self-paced online learning (2 hours per week)
• 3 one-hour live online sessions
• 2 full in-person days (6 hours each).

Participants in the Graduate Certificate in Public Sector Leadership will also complete 4 weeks of additional readings, research, and assessment tasks for each module.

Key program features

• Behavioural and Strengths Assessments
  Gain insights into your leadership style and leverage your strengths for greater impact.
• Networking Opportunities
  Connect with peers, mentors, and senior leaders across the public sector and beyond.
• Insights from Industry Leaders
  Learn from experienced professionals and thought leaders who bring real-world perspectives to leadership challenges.

The Next Execs Program empowers you to lead with confidence, foster innovation, and deliver better outcomes for the South Australian community.

Download the Next Execs Program Brochure (PDF 1.1MB)

The Next Execs Program runs over 12 months and blends online and in-person learning to build strategic leadership capability across the South Australian public sector.

The next intake begins in July 2026, with registrations opening in March 2026.

Intake 2026–27: July 2026 – June 2027

• Program Launch: 21 July 2026
• Program End: Late July 2027

Includes:

• Program Launch & Overview (in-person keynote, executive panel, networking lunch)
• Four core modules combining self-paced learning, live virtual sessions, and in-person workshops
• Individual strengths debrief
• Networking & collaboration opportunities
• Program Close & Certificate Presentation

Click here to download the full schedule (PDF 81KB)

The Office of the Commissioner for Public Sector Employment reserves the right to cancel or modify programs, dates, times, venues and speakers in the event of circumstances beyond its control.

The total investment for the Next Execs Program is $12,500 (for both the Professional Development and the Graduate Certificate pathways).

This includes:

• Participation in all program modules and learning sessions
• Access to individual strengths and behavioural assessments
• Comprehensive learning materials and curated digital resources
• Expert facilitation and support from program coordinators
• In-person workshops, including catering and venue costs
• Opportunities for cross-sector networking and collaboration
• Access to post-program alumni events and leadership community

Program costs are not inclusive of travel or accommodation.

The Next Execs Program is designed for high-performing South Australian public sector managers who are ready to broaden their leadership impact and strategic influence.

The South Australian Leadership Academy recognises that leadership in the public sector is diverse and dynamic. The Next Execs Program supports this complexity by offering a flexible, hybrid learning experience that combines asynchronous online learning, live virtual sessions, and short, intensive in-person workshops.

To be eligible for either the Graduate Certificate Pathway or Professional Development Pathway, applicants must have:

• At least three years of relevant professional experience in the public sector, and/or
• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification.

Who should attend

This program is ideal for public sector professionals who:

• Are identified as ready to step into more complex leadership roles
• Demonstrate strategic thinking, innovation, and stakeholder engagement
• Are committed to inclusive, service-focused leadership
• Seek to deepen their leadership capability and broaden their system-level impact
• Are preparing for future executive or cross-sector leadership responsibilities

This is a high-impact, practice-based development program tailored for those ready to take the next step in their leadership journey.

Regional support

The program’s hybrid format makes it accessible to regional participants, combining flexible online learning with short, targeted in-person sessions to minimise travel while maximising engagement.

Express your interest

Are you ready to take the next step in your leadership journey?
The Next Execs Program offers a unique opportunity to invest in your professional growth, expand your strategic influence, and prepare for the future of public sector leadership.

If you're interested in joining a future intake, we encourage you to:

• Speak with your direct line manager
• Connect with your HR, organisational development, or learning and development team
• Explore how this program aligns with your career goals and development plan

Note: This program is currently available to South Australian Public Sector employees only.

The 2026 intake for the Next Execs Program opened on 12 March 2026 and closed 1 May 2026.

To register, please visit the below registration form.

Registrations for the 2026/2027 Next Execs Program have now closed

Registration schedule

Visit the Registration Schedule for current intake availability and key dates.

Frequently asked questions

View the Leadership Development Programs Frequently Asked Questions.

We understand that circumstances can change. Below are the cancellation terms for the Next Execs Program – Intake 2026-2027 (July 2026–June 2027):

Please note: All cancellation terms are based on working days, not calendar days.

View the Event Cancellation Policy

If you have questions about the Next Execs Program or enquiries about your current registration, enrolment status or invoicing, please contact the South Australian Leadership Academy team:

• Email: OCPSELeadershipAcademy@sa.gov.au
• Phone: 1800 317 333

Graduates of the Next Execs Program become part of the South Australian Leadership Academy’s Alumni Network, where they will be invited to:

• Participate in group coaching sessions
• Engage in peer learning opportunities
• Attend exclusive leadership events and networking forums

This ongoing connection supports continued growth, collaboration, and impact across the public sector.

To continue receiving updates, please ensure your contact details are kept up to date, especially when moving across government departments.

For more information, visit our Alumni Workshops and Events page.

Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Scholarships

For further information on scholarship opportunities please visit the Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Scholarships page.