Background
As one of the UK and Ireland’s leading renewable energy companies EDF Renewables (EDFR) is dedicated to combatting climate change. However, with 47 operational sites and a growing team it faced challenges in leadership development and cross-regional collaboration. Operating locally meant employees expressed concerns about isolation, a lack of inclusivity and siloed operations. In response EDFR sought to overhaul its leadership training to foster openness, belonging and strategic, rather than operational, leadership that could drive the business forward.
The Inspire Leadership Programme was developed to address these challenges, focusing on enhancing leadership capabilities, embedding inclusivity and strengthening emotional intelligence. Traditional management training had proved insufficient and EDFR wanted to create real, lasting change.
Approach
In partnership with t-three EDFR launched the Inspire Leadership Programme, an 18-month initiative designed to instill new leadership behaviours and bridge cultural divides. The programme kicked off with a thorough diagnostic phase, involving interviews with senior leaders, employee surveys and listening groups, providing insights into barriers and shaping a tailored learning journey.
The programme used a variety of interactive and innovative learning methods. These included psychometrics, 360-degree feedback, immersive workshops, forum theatre and real-time scenario simulations to enhance emotional intelligence and inclusivity. A standout component was the non-anonymous 360 feedback tool called the ‘Inclusivity Truth Teller,’ which provided candid insights into leaders’ inclusive behaviours and their impact on teams.
“The Inspire Leadership Programme has helped transform leadership at EDF Renewables, driving inclusivity, trust and enhanced collaboration across the business”
Additionally, a ‘Making it Real’ activity simulated real-world leadership challenges, where participants worked on a scenario focused on meeting an accelerated Net Zero target. Participants received real-time feedback on their leadership styles, offering immediate insights and growth opportunities.
Outcome
The Inspire Leadership Programme has had a transformative impact on EDFR’sleaders. Achieving a net promoter score of 9.1, the programme was praised for its deep impact on leadership and inclusivity. Over 150 leaders participated and 88% set goals, with 74% achieving them as verified by peers.
Key metrics from the company’s 2024 survey demonstrated the programme’s success: confidence in leadership decision-making improved by 8% while employee inspiration from EDFR’s mission rose by 7%. Inclusivity scores increased by 6%, with more employees agreeing that all backgrounds were treated fairly at EDFR.
The programme also brought lasting cultural change, with participants now fostering trust, valuing flexible working and ensuring psychological safety. EDFR continues to build on the programme’s success, embedding these practices throughout the organisation to create an inclusive, empowered workforce supporting their net-zero mission.