Leading People at The University of Manchester
People are at the heart of our University. This page is designed to support all colleagues who lead and manage others, whether you are new to the role or an experienced leader. Here you’ll find professional development resources to build the skills, behaviours and knowledge needed to create and lead inclusive, effective and inspiring teams. Together, we empower our people to thrive and contribute to the University’s mission.
New to Leading People
Explore manager accountabilities, Manager Essentials, and support for new People Leaders.
People Leader Induction
Develop your Leadership
Develop leadership skills through a 6-month programme for new and growing People Leaders.
People Leader Programme
The 'Focus On' Series
Short tactical workshops on core people leader topics to support People Leaders to understand accountabilities. good practice and relevant University of Manchester processes in the following topics:
Focus on Conversations
A 3 hour workshop that equips people leaders with the mindset and skills for effective conversations that build trust, enhance performance, and foster psychological safety.
Focus on Performance
This 3 hour workshop, supports People Leaders to enable and sustain high performance with their direct reports by having a positive impact on individual performance and development, as well as understanding the tools available to address underperformance when required.
Focus on Recruitment
For all colleagues taking part in a recruitment panel, the Recruitment development suite involves mandatory eLearning and an optional 3 hour workshop focusing on shortlisting and interviewing candidates and provides the opportunity to explore best practice to conduct fair, effective and equitable recruitment experiences.
Focus on Induction & Probation
This 3 hour workshop equips people leaders with the knowledge and practical skills to deliver effective induction and probation experiences for new starters that support engagement and performance.
Focus on Resolving Issues at Work
This 3 hour workshop equips people leaders with the knowledge and practical skills to identify and address workplace issues early, using a restorative and person centred approach.
Focus on Absence
Equips people leaders with the clarity and confidence to manage absence effectively and fairly. Builds practical skills for applying policy consistently, supporting wellbeing, and handling sensitive or complex situations with confidence. An eLearning module followed by a 3 hour workshop.
Focus on Supporting Diverse Needs
This 3 hour workshop gives people leaders the knowledge and practical skills they need to confidently support neurodivergent and disabled colleagues at the University of Manchester. Through activities, discussion and real‑life scenarios
Leading with wellbeing
Leading others also means supporting their wellbeing, and your own. This section brings together courses that focus on recognising and responding to stress, understanding and promoting positive mental health, and creating a supportive work environment. These courses offer practical strategies to help you lead with empathy, maintain resilience and foster a healthy, open culture within your team.
Mental Health
Start course: Mental Health and Wellbeing in the Modern Workplace
Stress
Start course: Introduction to Stress Management for Line Managers & Leaders
Wellbeing
Start course: Managing with Wellbeing in Mind
Manager Essentials
Manager Essentials serves as your comprehensive guide - a one-stop shop for everything you need to know and do to support your team effectively. Resources on best practice, policies, processes and support in the following areas: starting at the University, employment changes, leadership, leave, absence, wellbeing, IT access and more.