Common Purpose runs leadership development programmes that enable people from different backgrounds, sectors, geographies and generations to work together to solve common problems. In the process, it gives participants the inspiration, skills and connections to become better leaders, both at work and in society.

Founded in 1989 as a not-for-profit social enterprise, Common Purpose now runs local programmes for leaders in cities across the world, and global programmes for leaders from over 100 countries across six continents. This year, 4,000 leaders will become Common Purpose alumni.

Leadership development

Common Purpose has created a leadership development approach that is distinctive, different and sets it apart.

As Common Purpose has developed, two big leadership themes have become central to its thinking: Leading Beyond Authority and Cultural Intelligence. Both ideas concern leadership beyond traditional boundaries and organisational structures, where different skills are needed to achieve success or manage complex change, and both run through every Common Purpose programme.

Common Purpose uses this robust, intellectual framework of thought leadership and combines it with experiential learning techniques. Participants are taken out of the classroom into the city to hear from other leaders about the issues they face. Common Purpose is known for its unique convening power which enables it to provide access to leaders across all sectors and at senior levels in cities around the world. This gives participants rare insight and first-hand experience.

Global reach

Common Purpose’s global reach continues to expand rapidly; offices are established across Germany, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Ireland, Singapore, South Africa, Turkey and the UK, with Brazil and the USA following soon. Common Purpose can also draw on the resources of its partners and its worldwide network of 50,000 alumni to deliver programmes across the world.