SCOTLANDS RURAL Leadership Programme returns this year with a virtual twist.

Rural business owners or managers looking to develop their management skills and grow their companies are invited to join the The Scottish Enterprise-led programme which has produced more than 630 graduates over the past 14 years.

The programme will be facilitated by SAC Consulting and will move online as a result of the coronavirus pandemic and this year will have a key focus on self-development.

It will run from October 2020 to March 2021, and will involve more than 40 hours of workshops, team tasks, group discussions and one-to-one coaching sessions, made up of short one to two-hour sessions.

SAC Consulting is looking to recruit 40 applicants from across Scotland who have ambitions for the future of their business and recognise the need to change their business model, learn new skills, embrace digital technologies and a new way of working, and respond to their customer’s needs.

Business Manager at SAC Consulting, Iain Riddell, said: “We’re living in unprecedented times when the business environment is affected, and perhaps changed for ever, by the twin uncertainties of Covid-19 and Brexit.

“However, with disruption comes opportunities for our rural business leaders. Businesses will need strong leadership if they're to get through a period of intense change and take advantage of opportunities that will arise in future," he continued.

“This year, the virtual format offers an added bonus for participants as it will mean less time away from your business.”

The cost of the programme is £400 (plus VAT) and applications are invited until August 31.

In the meantime, potential applicants can join an information webinar on Wednesday, August 12 at 1.30pm to find out more about the programme.

To register your interest in the programme or to receive webinar joining instructions, contact Aileen Carr at: Aileen.Carr@sac.co.uk.