This week, a Scottish university is joining forces with three local authorities to develop the next generation of public service leaders.
Public management experts from Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh (QMU) have worked with the councils to develop a high impact masters programme that will improve the delivery of public services across the country.
Working in partnership with the University, City of Edinburgh Council, Dundee City Council and Orkney Islands Council have combined academic and practical skills to develop the new MSc Public Services Leadership. The unique programme, which has been co-designed by public sector academics and staff from the three councils, combines the latest research into leadership with a working knowledge of the practical challenges of public service delivery.
Dr Elliott, Lecturer in Business at Queen Margaret University, said: “This programme will equip staff to deliver successful outcomes in the communities they serve at a time of significant change.”
Over 50 council staff are enrolled on the leadership programme which they will study on a part-time basis. They will each dedicate a minimum of two and a half years to the masters degree. One of the key philosophies behind the programme is the concept of coaching as a fundamental component of leadership.
Dr Elliott concluded: “We commend Edinburgh City Council, Dundee City Council and Orkney Islands Council for taking a pro-active approach to developing the skills of their staff to ensure success in challenging times. The philosophy behind the joint initiative also confirms QMU mission to provide socially relevant courses and research that respond to the most pressing needs of society and ultimately improve quality of life.”
This course builds on the work that Queen Margaret University recently carried out with the Welsh Government when it delivered a postgraduate certificate in public service governance to 21 public service workers across Wales.
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