Creating confident, capable leaders in a high-demand environment.

100% of learners would recommend the programme.

4.5–5 average rating across all workshops.

AHC Learning Ltd. partnered with one of the UK’s leading port operators to design a bespoke, multi-month development journey to grow confident and collaborative leaders ready to tackle the demands of a high-paced operational environment.

About The Client:

A major UK port operator, managing a network of strategically located ports across Scotland and England. With operations spanning container handling, bulk cargo, offshore renewables, and more, the organisation plays a vital role in the national supply chain and economic infrastructure.

Summary

The Developing Leader Programme was created to align with the client’s talent and succession strategy, offering practical tools and mindset shifts for a new generation of leaders. Delivered over six months, the programme featured six full-day workshops, interactive group learning, and real-time workplace application.

Alison says: “Leadership is a lot like port operations – you need a clear route, responsive tools, and great communication to keep everything flowing. This programme was about building leaders who can navigate confidently, even in rough waters.“

Workshop Themes

Leading People: Emotional intelligence, leadership styles, and self-awareness
Decision Making & Communication: Rational models, OODA loop, and communication styles
Maximising Personal & Team Performance: Prioritisation, feedback, team engagement
Adapting to Change: Leading change, mindset, empathy, and influence
Quality Conversations & Building Resilient Teams: Assertiveness, resilience, and difficult conversations
Fostering a Culture of Trust, Learning & Innovation: Psychological safety, continuous learning, and innovation

Challenges

The client needed to balance operational demands with long-term leadership development. Many learners were on-call, requiring flexible facilitation and high engagement. Learners also varied widely in experience, meaning the content had to be relevant and resonant for both emerging and seasoned leaders.

What We Did

AHC Learning Ltd. created a learner-centred, insight-driven experience rooted in reflection, collaboration, and real-world application.

Alison says:
“It’s not about running a ‘course’. It’s about sparking transformation – giving leaders the tools and confidence to shift from ‘doing’ to truly ‘leading’.“

Key Elements

Activities anchored in real scenarios from the business
Peer learning to strengthen internal networks
Tools for practical use: Covey Matrix, OODA Loop, Feedback models, Jungian-style communication styles
A strong focus on emotional intelligence, resilience and performance under pressure

Results/ Feedback

• 100% of learners would recommend the programme
• Average ratings across all modules: 4.5–5 out of 5
• Highest-rated themes: Maximising Team Performance and Fostering a Culture of Trust

Observed Impact

Increased confidence in decision-making and delegation
Clearer team roles, responsibilities, and performance expectations
Enhanced empathy and communication across departments
Growth in resilience and leadership self-awareness
Stronger cross-functional collaboration

“Alison’s delivery was excellent – fun, interactive, and impactful.”

“I’ve applied prioritisation tools directly with my team – we’re now clearer on who owns what.”

“The emotional intelligence module changed how I react – I’ve become a more thoughtful leader.”

“Networking across the business was invaluable – I’ve built strong connections.”

“This programme helped me grow into a stronger, more capable leader.”

Conclusion

The Developing Leader Programme has embedded a strong foundation for effective, emotionally intelligent leadership in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment. By putting people at the heart of development, AHC Learning Ltd. has helped future leaders rise with confidence, clarity, and credibility.

Click here to download this case study as a PDF.