Confidently switch between manager and leader to drive performance, culture and change

In today’s fast-paced public sector, success relies on your ability to shift seamlessly between managing tasks and leading people.

This full-day, interactive program is designed for APS professionals who want to strengthen their ability to exercise authority with clarity, build influence with purpose, and respond confidently in complex or ambiguous environments.

You’ll explore the differences and overlaps between management and leadership and learn when — and how — to apply each. Through realistic APS scenarios, group activities, and practical tools, you’ll build the capabilities needed to drive performance, shape culture, and support your team through both stability and change.

Whether you’re supervising a team, managing projects, or supporting decision-making, this workshop offers strategies and space to refine how you manage and lead—and do both well.

WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?

Management is about getting things done. Leadership is about setting direction and bringing others along. In the public sector, you’re expected to do both — often at the same time.

This program is designed to help you understand and strengthen both capabilities. You’ll gain clarity on what it means to manage systems, processes, and performance — and how to lead people, influence culture, and support change.

Using public sector-relevant scenarios and frameworks, this session goes beyond theory and gives you tools you can apply straight away. You’ll also have the chance to practise in a safe environment through scenarios, discussions, and reflective exercises.

BY THE END OF THIS COURSE, YOU WILL BE ABLE TO:

• Understand the distinct and complementary roles of management and leadership in the APS — and know when to apply each.
• Exercise formal authority with greater skill and confidence, in line with APS values, legislation, and policy expectations.
• Use practical tools and frameworks to manage people, systems, and performance while also leading teams through ambiguity and change.
• Build greater self-awareness and communication capability to influence, engage, and support others effectively.
• Apply learning through real APS scenarios involving strategic decision-making, feedback, delegation, and adaptive team leadership.

If you would like to learn more about this course or our other offerings, please contact the IPAA ACT team at 02 6154 9800 or capability@act.ipaa.org.au.

Courses that do not reach the minimum required participants 14 days before the commencement date will be cancelled with a full refund.

If you work for the federal or ACT public service, or in the broader public-for-purpose sector, you’re most likely already a member of IPAA ACT. Check our membership list if you’re not sure.