Shaping Leadership Through Challenge and Change

A recent graduate of the ILM Level 7 Leadership and Management programme, Lleucu Siencyn joined the course in 2024 at a pivotal point in her career as she was seeking a fresh challenge and new professional direction.

“I’d completed ILM Level 5 a few years earlier and found it a fantastic experience,” Lleucu explained. “So when the time felt right to push myself further, this programme felt like the perfect next step – especially as it coincided with some big changes in my working life.”

Her new position is Director of Strategy and Delivery for Adnodd, a Welsh Government arm’s length body that oversees and coordinates the provision of educational resources in both Welsh and English to support the teaching and learning of the Curriculum for Wales. As a new organisation, Adnodd required a clear strategic vision, and Lleucu — using the skills she’d learned on the programme — led the development of its very first Strategy.

A Collaborative Learning Environment

One of the most valuable aspects of the course was the structure, which blended independent study, practical application, and meaningful group discussions.

“Being part of a cohort of leaders from across the Welsh public sector was a real privilege. It gave us the chance to share experiences and reflect on situations from outside our usual environments. The group was so supportive; we all learnt a lot from each other.”

Embedding Reflection and Continuous Growth

A key takeaway from the programme was the importance of making time for reflection – and building that into everyday working life.

“It’s something we all know we should do, but rarely make space for. The programme taught me that meaningful reflection takes discipline, and that it’s worth the effort. It’s now a regular part of how I approach my work.”

Stepping Into a New Role With Confidence

The impact of the course has been both personal and professional. As well as gaining clarity and confidence, Lleucu has been able to successfully transition into a new role in a new sector, with a stronger toolkit and a deeper sense of empathy.

“I wanted this process to be a collaborative one, involving staff and stakeholders to gather ideas and listen to their views on our priority areas. The frameworks and resources shared on the course gave me the tools to shape the process in a collaborative way, with the principle of shared leadership at the heart of the work.”

Creating a Culture of Learning

Lleucu began the programme shortly after securing the role at Adnodd , and received strong support from her organisation from the outset.

“I was very generously supported throughout the process by Adnodd, who allowed me to take time out to attend in-person and online sessions and encouraged my studies. I think it's very important for an organisation to invest in its people and to encourage a culture of learning and reflection. The fact that I was supported to do the course from the beginning of my new role demonstrated that Adnodd, as a new company, values its people.”

That early backing has helped shape the organisation’s culture from day one. “With the support of the CEO, others in the team are also encouraged to take time out to learn and reflect.”

A Practical Toolkit for Future Leadership

Looking ahead, the learning continues to shape how Lleucu works – especially in terms of creativity and collaboration.

“I’ve come away with tools I use every day, whether it’s dealing with challenges or building on what I do best. The programme encouraged innovative thinking and gave me space to understand how I lead and where I want to go next.”