How Sponsorship Supports Career Progression for Underrepresented Talent

Leadership sponsorship programmes provide a structured, step-by-step approach to accelerating career progression for underrepresented talent by combining advocacy, visibility, and leadership development.

Identify underrepresented talent with high potential

Organisations begin by identifying employees from underrepresented groups who demonstrate leadership potential, ambition, and readiness for progression.

Pair employees with a senior sponsor

Selected employees are matched with senior leaders who actively provide advocacy, guidance, and access to career-advancing opportunities.

Develop visible leadership skills through sponsorship

Sponsorship programmes focus on building communication, influence, and leadership behaviours that support progression into senior roles.

Increase visibility through high-impact opportunities

Sponsors help employees gain exposure by assigning high-impact projects and ensuring contributions are recognised by key decision-makers.

Collapse perceived gaps to senior leadership

Through guidance and advocacy, sponsorship reduces perceived barriers and clarifies pathways from current roles to future leadership positions.

Support diverse and authentic leadership styles

Sponsorship encourages individuals to lead authentically, recognising and valuing diverse leadership approaches rather than promoting conformity.

Track career progression and organisational outcomes

Effective sponsorship programmes measure outcomes such as confidence, visibility, retention, and progression to ensure tangible business impact.