Background 

ATG Entertainment is one of the world’s leading live entertainment groups, operating 72 venues across Britain, the USA, Germany, Austria and Spain. Yet a decade ago the organisation faced a pressing talent challenge. Internal candidates struggled to progress into leadership, often leaving to gain experience elsewhere.

Engagement data told a similar story: only 33% of employees saw themselves building a long-term career at ATG and just 40% believed there were meaningful opportunities for development. Loyalty to individual theatres was strong but connection to the wider organisation was weak. Without progression pathways ATG risked losing promising people and valuable knowledge.

Approach 

In 2014, ATG launched Rising Stars, a leadership development programme designed to identify, nurture and retain emerging talent from across the business. Led by Head of Talent Development Paul Williamson and learning consultant Nicky Stone the initiative set out to create confident, self-aware leaders who embody ATG’s values and bring the organisation closer together.

Working with the Academy of Executive Coaching (AoEC), ATG initially trained 24 managers as certified coaches, later expanding and professionalising the practice through the AoEC Practitioner Diploma. Each participant is paired with an internal coach and joins a structured two-year journey blending workshops, group coaching and real-world projects.

“ATG’s Rising Stars has transformed internal career development, creating a self-sustaining culture of learning where future leaders grow, stay and inspire others”

The programme begins with a two-day residential induction at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre to build trust and connection. Participants then attend workshops on leadership, communication and managing change, culminating in a graduation event where they pitch business improvement projects and present their leadership journeys to colleagues and family.

Senior executives actively support applications, join interview panels and attend graduations, ensuring that Rising Stars is fully embedded in ATG’s wider talent strategy.

Outcome

Over 11 years, Rising Stars has become a defining part of ATG’s culture. More than 400 applications have been received, with 142 participants completing the programme and over 1,000 hours of learning delivered. It has become the organisation’s primary route to leadership, with half of ATG’s West End theatres now led by Rising Stars alumni.

Participants show measurable growth: 80% report improved confidence, 75% greater self-awareness and 77% remain with ATG. Alumni stay 4.2 years longer, saving £1.3 million in recruitment costs.

The arts industry has taken notice too. Industry publication The Stage described the initiative as “unmatched elsewhere in the sector,” while senior leaders call it “invaluable.”

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