We’re proud to deliver the Executive Excellence Program in collaboration with leading facilitators and thought leaders across the public and private sectors. This program is part of the South Australian Leadership Academy’s commitment to cultivating strategic, values-driven leadership at the executive level.

This brochure provides an overview of:

• Program objectives and structure
• Facilitator biographies
• Contact details

The Executive Excellence Program is designed to challenge and inspire senior leaders to expand their influence, lead with purpose, and drive meaningful change across the public sector.

Download the Executive Excellence Program Brochure (PDF)

The Executive Excellence Program runs over several months and includes a blend of virtual and in-person experiences designed to elevate strategic leadership across the South Australian public sector.

February 2026 intake

• Program Start: Monday, 16 February 2026
• Program End: Wednesday, 17 June 2026

Includes:

• Orientation & Profile Debrief (1.5 hrs virtual or in-person)
• Webinars & Workshops on leadership, strategy, diversity, and adaptive leadership
• 1:1 Executive Coaching Sessions
• Networking & Collaboration Events
• Program Close & Reflection

Please note: Due to limited places, registration does not guarantee a place in the program. Final participant selection will be determined at the discretion of the Office of the Commissioner for Public Sector Employment (OCPSE).

Click here to download the full schedule (PDF)

The Office of the Commissioner for Public Sector Employment reserves the right to cancel or modify programs, dates, times, venues and speakers in the event of circumstances beyond its control.

The total investment for the Executive Excellence Program is $12,900 + GST.

This includes:

• Participation in all program modules and sessions
• Access to tailored executive coaching and leadership diagnostics
• Comprehensive learning materials and curated resources
• Support from expert facilitators and program coordinators
• Catering and venue costs for in-person sessions
• Access to post-program alumni events and networking opportunities

Program costs are not inclusive of travel or accommodation.

If you have any questions about payment or invoicing, please contact IPAA SA at salaexecutiveexcellence@sa.ipaa.org.au

The Executive Excellence Program is designed for senior leaders in the South Australian public sector who currently hold executive-level responsibilities and are ready to expand their strategic influence and system leadership capability.

The South Australian Leadership Academy recognises that executive leadership in the public sector is diverse and dynamic. Leadership responsibilities may vary across agencies and roles, and this program is designed to support that complexity.

While the program is intended for those at the executive and executive director level, employees at the ASO8 level (or equivalent) may also apply based on the strategic scope of their role. This includes individuals preparing for broader cross-sector or whole-of-government leadership responsibilities, where participation is endorsed by their manager or agency leadership team.

This program is designed to support leaders who are ready to take the next step in their executive journey. If you're unsure about your eligibility, we encourage you to discuss your participation with your manager or agency leadership team. Please note that the South Australian Leadership Academy (SALA) does not assess individual eligibility, except in relation to overall program capacity. You may proceed to register once your participation has been approved by your manager and authorised agency delegate.

Who should attend

This program is ideal for executives who:

• Have held their current level for at least 12 months
• Are identified as ready for more complex, system-wide leadership roles
• Demonstrate strategic thinking, innovation, and stakeholder engagement
• Act as role models for the SA Public Sector Values
• Seek to deepen their leadership impact across complex systems
• Are preparing for broader cross-sector or whole-of-government leadership responsibilities

This is a high-level, practice-based development program tailored for those already operating at an executive level.

Express your interest

Are you ready to take the next step in your leadership journey?

The Executive Excellence Program is a unique opportunity to invest in your personal and professional development. Over several months, you’ll strengthen your strategic leadership, broaden your system-level impact, and gain tools to lead with purpose across the public sector.

If you're interested in attending a future intake, we encourage you to:

• Speak with your direct line manager
• Connect with your HR, organisational development, or learning and development team
• Explore how this program aligns with your career goals and development plan

Note: This program is currently available to South Australian Public Sector employees only.

The February 2026 intake for the Executive Excellence Program opens on 15 September 2025 and closes on 7 November 2025.

To register, please visit the registration form:

2026 registrations are now closed

Registration and selection information

Due to limited participant numbers, submission of a registration does not guarantee placement in the program. The Office of the Commissioner for Public Sector Employment (OCPSE) reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to determine final participant eligibility and selection. Should a registration be revoked, the registrant will be notified in writing.

Registration schedule

Visit the Registration Schedule for current intake availability and key dates.

Frequently asked questions

View the Leadership Development Programs Frequently Asked Questions.

If you have any questions about your registration or need assistance, contact IPAA SA at salaexecutiveexcellence@sa.ipaa.org.au

We understand that circumstances can change. Below are the cancellation terms for the Executive Excellence Program – February 2026:

Please note: All cancellation terms are based on working days, not calendar days.

View the Event Cancellation Policy

General enquiries

If you have questions about the Executive Excellence Program or need general information, please contact the South Australian Leadership Academy team:

• Email: OCPSELeadershipAcademy@sa.gov.au
• Phone: 1800 317 333

Registration, enrolment and invoicing

For enquiries about your current registration, enrolment status or invoicing, please contact our delivery partner, the Institute for Public Administration Australia SA (IPAA):

• Email: salaexecutiveexcellence@sa.ipaa.org.au
• Phone: (08) 8212 7555

Graduates of the Executive Excellence Program become part of the South Australian Leadership Academy’s Alumni Network, where they will be invited to:

• Participate in group coaching sessions
• Engage in peer learning opportunities
• Attend exclusive leadership events and networking forums

This ongoing connection supports continued growth, collaboration, and impact across the public sector.

To continue receiving updates, please ensure your contact details are kept up to date, especially when moving across government departments.

For more information, visit our Alumni Workshops and Events page.

Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Scholarships

One Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Scholarship is available per intake for eligible participants of the Executive Excellence Program.

This scholarship supports greater access to leadership development for individuals from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds within the South Australian public sector.

To learn more about eligibility criteria and how to apply, please visit the Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Scholarships page.