Denver South and University of Denver launch leadership academy for new managers

GREENWOOD VILLAGE, Colo. — Denver South will launch a new leadership development program this fall aimed at first-time managers and emerging leaders in the region.

The Denver South Leadership Academy, developed in partnership with University of Denver Executive Education, will begin Sept. 15 and run through Nov. 10. The nine-week hybrid program will combine in-person sessions at Denver South’s offices with live online instruction.

According to Denver South, more than half of first-time managers receive no formal training and 26% report feeling unprepared to lead others. The organization said the academy was created to help employers develop leadership skills among employees transitioning into management roles.

“Strong local leaders are essential to the long-term success of our region’s businesses and communities,” said David Worley, president and CEO of Denver South.

The program will focus on leadership styles, coaching and employee management, decision-making, delegation, team development, feedback and conflict resolution. Participants will complete leadership assessments, collaborate with peers and develop a personalized leadership roadmap.

Denver South partnered with the University of Denver Executive Education to design and deliver the curriculum.

“One of the biggest challenges in leadership development is making sure the learning continues after participants return to their day-to-day responsibilities,” said Erin Flaherty, executive director of Executive Education at the Daniels College of Business. “Participants will not only explore core leadership practices, they will apply them and leave with a clearer roadmap for how they want to lead.”

Graduates will receive a University of Denver microcredential upon completing the program.

Enrollment is limited to 15 participants per cohort. The academy is open to employees of Denver South’s primary employer organizations.

Denver South said it will subsidize 50% of the program cost for eligible employers located within the Denver South region for the inaugural cohort. Applications are open through Aug. 14.