
Reflections on the 2024 Senior Executive IELP: a transformative journey in leadership
The 2024 Senior Executive Integrity and Ethical Leadership Program (IELP) offered participants a deeply transformative learning experience through its thoughtfully curated modules. The program brought together a diverse group of leaders from across the public sector, fostering insightful discussions and practical strategies to enhance ethical leadership.
Key highlights from the program
Day 1: Systems, governance and culture
The program commenced with an engaging session by The Westminster Tradition Podcast host, Danielle Elston presented a case study on the critical learnings from Robodebt. The deep dive into the outcomes underscored why this case is a pivotal learning for all public servants, emphasising accountability and systemic integrity.
Marlo Baragwanath, Victorian Ombudsman, shared her inspiring leadership and integrity journey, offering valuable insights into how they have navigated ethical dilemmas in the public sector. Lead program facilitator, Elizabeth Langdon, facilitated a thought-provoking discussion on Building Integrity in Leadership to wrap up the day. She encouraged participants to reflect on their organisations’ practices and consider tangible ways to foster integrity in their leadership roles.
Day 2: Systems thinking and ethical leadership in practice
Systems thinking expert, Cass Spong, led a comprehensive session on Systems Thinking and Leadership, highlighting key principles for effecting meaningful change. Participants worked through activities to see the system as whole; the role you play within the system; and how to cultivate a culture of Frank and Fearless Advice.
Renowned public sector leader, John Merritt, drew from his extensive leadership experience to deliver an inspiring discussion on how to be a passionate leader, follow your own personal values and the interplay between integrity and leadership.
Day 3: Ethical decision making in the public sector
Dr Tim Dean from The Ethics Centre, further enriched the cohort with a session on Ethics in Practice.
Dr Dean highlighted the importance of aligning purpose and values with ethical leadership, offering techniques to recognise and address ethical blind spots. Participants explored practical strategies for thoughtful, bias-aware decision-making and gained a deeper understanding of how shadow leadership influences organisational culture. Participants left equipped with actionable strategies to tackle complex decisions with curiosity and intentionality.
Day 4: Advancing inclusive leadership
The final day centered on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), with Div Pillay of MindTribes leading an impactful session on Inclusive Leadership in the Public Sector. Participants explored intersectionality, DEI strategies, and ethical practices, gaining tools to build workplaces where every voice is valued.
Through candid discussions and interactive activities, the session reinforced the importance of authenticity and inclusion in leadership, offering participants a renewed commitment to fostering equitable and inclusive environments.
Left to right: Div Pillay, Jennifer Sicra, Amanda Stevens, Jenny Galea, Kylie Finnigan, Sarah Young, Mark Taylor, Elizabeth Langdon, Simon Heath.
Looking ahead to 2025
The next Integrity and Ethical Leadership Program kicks off on Tuesday, 6 May 2025, offering another opportunity to join this transformative journey. Registrations by 14 March 2025 will receive a 15% discount.
Our program continues to be a cornerstone in developing principled leaders who drive positive change within their organisations and communities. Take the first step toward becoming an ethical, inclusive, and impactful leader in the public sector.