Women in Leadership at Otago (WiLO) programme

The University of Otago is committed to building and sustaining staff capability. Investment in staff is essential in order to “sustain Otago's capability as a vital and collegial University” (University Strategic Document 2012).

Leaders have an important role in any organisation and the Women in Leadership at Otago Programme ( WiLO ) explores the qualities and skills associated with leadership and management. In order to do this the programme will focus on:

• The context for leadership at the University of Otago
• Developing leadership skills
• Planning your on-going professional development as a leader

The programme is offered to both academic and professional staff women from all Otago campuses.

Who is eligible for the programme?

To be eligible for this programme you should normally have a leadership role such as:

• Coordinating a team / service concerned with administration, teaching, research or innovation/enterprise
• Chairing committees at divisional or university level
• Overseeing significant duties in your department, such as director of postgraduate or research activities

Further criteria include:

• An interest in and/or demonstrated willingness to accept leadership or decision-making roles within the University
• A commitment to the full programme (see below)
• A willingness to engage with a variety of learning approaches and methods including group work, action learning and self-reflection

2025 programme

1. An introduction to the programme on 3 April 2025 via Zoom, 2:00pm-3:30pm.
2. A two-and-a-half day course in Dunedin (13–15 May 2025) focusing on leadership and management. In this course the context for leadership at Otago is explored, developing leadership skills and establishing ongoing professional development to enhance your leadership capability. The course will be facilitated by University staff.
3. Peer mentoring – you will be part of a peer learning group, who will plan to meet regularly over the ensuing six months. This group will support you to achieve your personal development goals that have been identified.
4. The programme concludes with a one-day wrap-up session on 20 November 2025 in Dunedin. At this event you will report back to the wider group on progress.

How to apply

Please submit a completed application form with a brief CV and short written statement (no more than one page).

WiLO Application Form (PDF)

Applications must be endorsed by your Dean (Health Sciences), Pro-Vice-Chancellor, or Divisional Head, and close at 5:00pm on Wednesday, 18 December 2024.