Release date: 23 September 2026
Business leaders across West Sussex are being encouraged to apply for the next cohort of "Future CEO". This fully funded business leaders' development programme is designed to help ambitious business owners strengthen their leadership capabilities, tackle business challenges and drive future success through a small, carefully selected peer group.
Delivered by the West Sussex Growth Hub, Future CEO brings together a carefully selected group of eight to ten business leaders in a confidential and supportive environment where they can step away from day-to-day pressures, gain fresh perspectives and focus on the bigger picture.
Through professionally facilitated sessions, participants work through live business issues, drawing on the experience and insight of fellow leaders to explore new approaches, challenge assumptions and identify practical actions they can take back into their businesses.
Whether navigating periods of growth, planning for the future, improving performance or addressing people-related challenges, participants benefit from honest discussion, constructive challenge and dedicated time to focus on strategic priorities.
Previous participants have described the programme as a transformative experience that helped them increase their confidence as leaders, make better decisions and gain greater clarity about the future direction of their business.
Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills, Councillor Yvonne Gravely, said: "Businesses succeed when leaders have the confidence, skills and support to make the right decisions at the right time. Future CEO gives business owners the chance to step back from day-to-day challenges, broaden their thinking and gain fresh insight from other experienced leaders.
"As a council, we're committed to investing in the growth ambitions of our business community because successful businesses create jobs, drive innovation and strengthen the local economy. Future CEO is a fantastic example of that commitment in action, and I would encourage eligible businesses across West Sussex to apply."
To be eligible, businesses must:
- Be based and operating in West Sussex
- Have been trading for at least two years
- Have an annual turnover between £100,000 and £1 million
- Employ a minimum of three people
- Have a business owner or senior leader able to commit to the programme
The programme is delivered by the West Sussex Growth Hub, which provides free and impartial business advice and support to small and medium-sized enterprises across the county.
Applications for the next Future CEO cohort are now open. Places are limited and early registration is recommended. Business leaders interested in joining the programme are encouraged to register their interest by contacting wscc.growthhub@westsussex.gov.uk.
