Core Competency Programme

Refine your command of the core skills that enable high-performance as a chief of staff.

Overview

The Core Competency Programme forms the cornerstone of CSA’s educational offerings, equipping participants with essential skills critical to the chief of staff role.

Duration: 10 months, with modules open from February to November

Structure: Complete one module and accompanying assignment per month

Commitment: Approximately four hours of learning per month

Assessment: Each module includes an assignment that must be completed to pass

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Learning Format

A mixed modality learning platform that connects active chiefs of staff, with subjects tailored to optimoise your role.

This programme allows you to discuss critical skills with other chiefs of staff, whilst completing the module at your own pace.

Live Discussion Groups

Each month you can attend a member led discussion group to connect with peers and dive deeper into the topic.

Monthly Modules

Modules are released on a monthly basis, with approximately four hours of learning per module.

Assessment

Each module will include a final assessment to apply your learnings practically.

“Joining CSA as a seasoned career chief of staff, I wasn’t sure if the Core Competency programme was right for me – but I soon learnt it was a perfectly balanced programme that brings together lots of tools, learnings and practical tips from top class lecturers, complimenting my existing skillset and joining the dots on individual strategic initiatives I am  focused on delivering in my day to day role. The opportunity to attend the monthly webinars and connect with fellow chief if staffs on the subject, building a strong professional network, is an added bonus!”

Miriam Reid, Chief of Staff, Beazly

Featured Core Competency Module

Leading Without Authority

Keith Ferrazzi

Founder, Ferrazzi Greenlight

Learn to lead by using tools of influence when leading cross-functional teams and implementing organisation-wide strategy. 

Keith Ferrazzi is the author of the New York Times bestselling books ‘Never Eat Alone’ and ‘Who’s Got Your Back?’. Keith is a recognized global thought leader whose methodologies are adapted to a twenty-first century with a radical new workplace operating system. 

Core Competencies

Project Management

Prof. Yael Grushka-Cockayne

The Darden School of Business

A masterclass that recognises the role of chiefs of staff as overseers of organisation-wide projects, applying project management techniques. 

Navigating Government 

James Copsey

Lead Partner, KPMG Australia

Governments play a key role in shaping business practices, organisations need to understand how to navigate these complexities. 

Negotiation & Soft Power 

Prof. Connson Locke

London School of Economics 

Learn how to manage difficult conversations with stakeholders and negotiate win-win outcomes for your principal and organisation.

Organisational Culture

David Bryum

Human Synergistics Australia

As the conduit between leadership and staff, learn how chiefs of staff can ‘take the organisational pulse’ to optimise culture for performance.

Change Management

Prof. Patrick Dawson

University of Aberdeen

Learn how to defuse pressures and ensure the implementation of necessary change while minimising damage to organisational culture.

Crisis Communications

Amanda Coleman

Crisis Communications Expert

Acting as a liaison between key stakeholders, this session positions chiefs of staff as ‘chief convenors’ who can provide clarity during crises.

How to Think Strategically

Ken Whitton

Organisational Strategy Expert

Uncovering the drivers – and barriers – to success is a vital process as a chief of staff, as well as understanding the critical relevance of ‘strategic thinking.’

Stakeholder Engagement

Prof. Lite Nartey 

INSEAD, Fontainebleau France

Manage the vital relationships that affect organisational performance and reputation, prioritising stakeholders levels of influence.

Communicating with Influence

Zoë Arden

Leadership Communications Expert

Develop capabilities and skills in influencing and engaging others, including creating an inspiring leadership narrative.

Learn more about our world-first chief of staff education programmes.