Apply now

Who Should Apply?

Different is for professionals from the global majority who are ready to step into bigger roles and make a bigger impact.

We welcome applications from those operating at Tier 3 or Tier 4 leadership level in:

  • Local authorities

  • Combined authorities

  • Central government

Programme Timetable

Closing Date for applications: Friday, 19th December 2025

Selection: February 2026

Two day assessment centre: March 2026

Programme Commencement: April 2026

Ready to Apply?

Applications are open now for our next Different Leadership cohort.


To apply, you’ll need to upload:

You’ll be taken to our main site, tile-hill.co.uk, to submit everything securely.

Apply now

Talk to us before applying

If you’re a senior leader, HRD or CEO thinking about applying - or nominating someone from your team - this is a great moment to talk it through.

Fill in the form, and one of our team will be in touch for a quick, friendly chat about the programme, what to expect, and whether it’s the right fit for you.

FAQs for delegates

  • Different is designed for senior public sector leaders from the global majority who are ready to move into executive roles. Most delegates come from local government, combined authorities, or related public bodies.

  • Delegates are typically Heads of Service, Assistant Directors, or newly appointed Directors - though we consider each application on its merits. The key factor is readiness and ambition to move into senior leadership.

  • Delegates describe Different as “transformational” - an experience that builds confidence, courage, and a lasting network of peers who look like them and champion their success. You’ll gain clarity on your leadership identity, the tools to lead through complex social and political change, and a renewed sense of purpose and possibility. Many participants have gone on to secure senior promotions, lead organisational transformation, and shape more inclusive workplaces.

  • Different includes a mix of in-person workshops, online sessions, coaching, and peer learning. Each module builds on the last, blending real-world leadership challenges with practical learning and reflection.

  • Expect around 8–10 days in total across six months, including residentials and preparation time. We recognise that delegates are busy senior leaders, so the programme is designed to be immersive but manageable alongside work.

  • Yes. We ask that your Chief Executive or HR Director supports your nomination. Their backing helps ensure you have time and space to fully engage in the programme and strengthens your leadership impact once you return to your organisation.

  • You’ll need to submit a short form, your CV, and responses to a few reflective questions. These help us understand your goals, readiness, and what you hope to gain from the experience.

  • We receive a high volume of applications, and spaces are limited. We encourage reapplication in future cohorts, and our team can offer light-touch feedback to support your growth.

  • Delegates come from across local government – local authorities and combined authorities from the global majority They’re ambitious, values-driven leaders who care deeply about inclusion, public impact, and meaningful change.

  • You’ll join a growing alumni network of public sector leaders committed to changing the face of leadership. Many continue to collaborate, mentor new delegates, and contribute to the national conversation about representation and leadership in the public sector.

FAQs for sponsors

  • Different is a national leadership development programme designed to accelerate and empower senior public sector leaders from diverse backgrounds. It equips participants with the confidence, skills, and network to thrive in executive roles and to reshape leadership across local government and beyond.

  • We welcome nominations for talented senior leaders from the global majority working in local government, combined authorities, and related public bodies. Delegates are typically Heads of Service, Assistant Directors or Directors with ambition to progress to Corporate Director level within the next 12–24 months.

  • Sponsoring a delegate is an investment in your organisation’s future leadership. 30% of our first cohort went on to secure Corporate Director roles, demonstrating the tangible impact of the programme. Different builds leadership capability, confidence, and diversity - strengthening your succession pipeline and helping leaders navigate change, devolution, and complex community challenges.


    The programme operates on a not-for-profit basis, with all surplus funds reinvested to enhance the cohort experience.

  • Sponsors play a key role in enabling their delegate’s success. This means supporting their participation (time and space to attend modules), engaging in a short sponsor briefing at the start, and providing feedback or reflection time throughout the programme as well as opportunities to develop in real time.

  • The programme runs across several modules over six months, with in-person workshops and virtual touchpoints. Between sessions, delegates complete light reflection and preparation work - typically a few hours per month. The second 6 months is devoted to putting into practice what the delegates have learned through action learning sets and further development through tailored coaching/mentoring.

  • Delegates leave the programme with renewed confidence, sharper leadership skills, and stronger peer networks. 30% of our first cohort progressed into senior executive roles, while many others have led transformation and improved inclusion within their organisations.


    As one delegate put it, “It’s difficult to overstate the impact - it’s opened my eyes to opportunities I once thought were hidden.”
    With evaluation through the University of Birmingham underway, Different represents a nationally recognised investment in leadership excellence.

  • It costs £7,500 to sponsor a delegate. The cost is intentionally designed to be fair and accessible -  it’s cost-neutral to Tile Hill and Newtrality, and not run as a commercial initiative. Any surplus is reinvested to enhance future modules and delegate experience. The fee includes all tuition, 1:1 virtual coaching and access to first-class facilitators, guest speakers, and a growing national network.

  • Yes. Many local authorities and combined authorities choose to nominate multiple delegates to strengthen their senior leadership pipeline and share cross-organisational insights. We welcome multi-delegate nominations or partnerships across regions.

  • Yes - we intentionally limit numbers to maintain a high-quality, personal experience. Early applications are encouraged.

  • We regularly collaborate with senior leaders and partner organisations to enrich the programme.

    Please get in touch to discuss opportunities.