Leading from the front – DSW’s next generation of leaders
Helping the next generation of DSW’s future leaders is the key aim of BecomingX, which in collaboration with DSW, has launched an innovative leadership development programme.
Supporting 12 professionals from across the Dow Schofield Watts network, the programme will build their leadership capabilities over the next six months whilst helping them to realise their potential.
BecomingX combines an understanding of high performance with stories and insights from inspiring and iconic people and provides personal support to challenge and overcome any limiting beliefs participants may have about their personal capabilities. It also aims to increase collaboration and build relationships and interconnectivity across DSW’s network.
BecomingX was set up by CEO Paul Gurney with Bear Grylls the TV presenter, adventurer and best-selling author.
Jonathon Jay, who recently joined the DSW network to lead DSW Wealth Planning, was surprised to find himself overcoming his own limitations – in this case, a fear of heights – on the very first day. “Heights are something I am not happy with at all, but even at the launch day I was able to put the tools learnt in the classroom to good effect,” says Jonathon.
“We were challenged to undertake the ‘high ropes’ which were 30 metres off the ground – which would have been so outside my comfort zone before day one! We also had a ‘plane crash’ activity which explored how we worked as a team under pressure.”
DSW joins the ranks of Accenture, Amazon, Deloitte, KPMG and The Commonwealth Games who also utilise the BecomingX programme to support future leaders. The 12 DSW participants will have engaging sessions focusing on leadership, business development, teamwork, communications and resilience together with exec coaching sessions culminating with a ‘graduation’ in June 2023.
“I’m really looking forward to learning how we’ll build on enhancing value across our network,” adds Pete Fendall, DSW Strategic Projects Director and a participant. “Being a challenger brand with a unique licensing model, DSW empowers people to take control of their destiny and build their own business – value creation through investment in people is a key component within our model.”