The Defence Leadership and Business Group (DLaB) is proud to officially launch the Leadership Edge, the first leadership development framework for the whole of defence.
The Leadership Edge Framework (LEF) and Leadership Edge Programme (LEP) are central to defence’s strategic ambition to cultivate inclusive, adaptive, integrative, and high-performing leadership. These initiatives underpin key transformation efforts, including Raising Our Standards (RoS), Defence Reform, and the evolution of defence leadership education and training.
Both initiatives drive coherence and integration across defence leadership education.
The LEP delivers a suite of flexible, accessible learning interventions, including digital modules, residential courses, and blended learning formats, all delivered via the Defence Learning Environment (DLE).
The LEF provides a standardised conceptual model adaptable to single Service and Whole Force needs.
It has been adopted across defence and beyond, shaping leadership development at multiple levels:
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within defence: LEF informs the Command, Leadership and Management (CLM) modules of the Advanced Command and Staff Course (ACSC), Higher Command and Staff Course (HCSC), and Royal College of Defence Studies (RCDS). It also underpins frameworks such as the Army Leader Competency Framework, Royal Navy Behaviour Framework, and the Professional Development Skills Framework (PDSF), as well as the KEYSTONE Programme for Grade 6 and 7 Civil Service leadership
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across government and industry: LEF has influenced leadership standards in organisations including the NHS, Fire Service, College for Policing, and the Department for Environment and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). It has also attracted interest from industry partners such as BAE Maritime
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internationally: LEF contributed to NATO’s inaugural competency framework for leadership in multinational operations, reinforcing its global relevance
The LEP offers tailored development pathways for individuals, teams, and organisations.
Key features include:
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bridging gaps between promotion and development opportunities
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promoting self-directed learning and ownership of personal growth
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reducing training costs through reusable, scalable resources
The programme employs adult learning (andragogic) and self-determined education (heutagogic) principles, enabling learners to curate personalised development journeys.
The LEP integrates a range of tools and resources into a seamless learning experience:
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Self-assessment tool (DLE): enables learners to evaluate their leadership attributes against the framework
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360-degree feedback tool (DLE): provides peer-rated insights equivalent to the self-assessment tool
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Leadership edge portal (DLE): a comprehensive repository of multimedia learning resources
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online modules: fifteen interactive modules aligned with the framework’s eleven dimensions
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diverse interventions: residential courses, blended learning, master classes, and forums offer networking opportunities across defence, the public sector, industry, and partner nations
RoS is a defence-wide initiative aimed at reinforcing professional standards and behaviours. LEF and LEP contribute directly to this agenda by embedding inclusive leadership principles and collaborating with senior leaders. The Defence Leadership Centre (DLC) team continues to advance this work by ensuring defence leaders are equipped to meet the demands of contemporary operating environments.
Leadership Edge represents our commitment to future-ready leadership. By fostering inclusive, evidence-informed, and flexible development, LEF and LEP support defence’s reform agenda and uphold the highest standards of professional leadership.
The DLC has been responsible for the development of the Leadership Edge.