Understanding Exeter’s Business Landscape
It is clear that Exeter is a city full of promise. Its economy, bolstered by institutions like the University of Exeter, Exeter College, Exeter Science Park, places it at the forefront of innovation and sustainability in the Southwest (University of Exeter, Exeter Science Park)
According to the Devon and Somerset Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP), the rise of digitization and automation has intensified the need for technical expertise—like coding—while also spotlighting a critical gap in leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills (LSIP Report, 2023).
This blog explores how leaders in Exeter can tackle these pressing challenges through tailored leadership training, creating workplaces that are not only innovative but also resilient, inclusive, and adaptable to change.
Understanding Exeter’s Workforce Challenges
The Skills Gap: A Double-Edged Sword
Employers across Devon and Somerset report a growing demand for employees who are “dual-skilled”—proficient in technical areas like IT and project management while also excelling in leadership, collaboration, and adaptability. However, 97% of employers seek graduates with essential skills, yet only 22% believe those graduates are work-ready. (CMI)
Small businesses, which dominate Exeter’s economy, face somewhat of an uphill battle because the resources to provide the in-depth training their workforce needs are not always available. Training and mentoring, while effective, is time-intensive and places an enormous strain on already stretched teams.
Rural Challenges Compound the Problem
Exeter is also not immune to the challenges of its rural surroundings. Employers in the region are twice as likely as the national average to face barriers related to accessibility. Limited transport options, a lack of affordable housing, and difficulty retaining young talent create a “skills imbalance,” where roles remain unfilled due to mismatched or there is a dearth of applicants.
So, how can Exeter’s leaders turn these challenges into opportunities?
Actionable Solutions: Leadership as the Catalyst
At The Ethical Leader, I’ve designed a suite of programs we call the Leadership Ecosystem, where you to address these issues head-on. Whether you’re a small business owner trying to retain talent or a manager tasked with building high-performing teams, here’s how investing in leadership training can transform your organisation.
Build a Resilient, Adaptable Workforce
The Leading Self program focuses on helping individuals develop self-awareness, resilience, and communication skills. These foundational abilities aren’t just “nice-to-haves”—they’re essential for thriving in fast-changing industries.
Actionable Tip for Leaders:
Encourage employees to invest in their personal growth. Offer them opportunities to explore leadership training that helps them understand their strengths and how to apply them effectively in a team setting.
Why It Works:
Research from LinkedIn Learning shows that over 90% of employees desire personalized, relevant training that feels meaningful to their career development When employees feel invested in, they are far more likely to remain engaged and loyal to your organisation.
Solve Retention Issues by Fostering Growth
One of the top reasons employees leave is the lack of clear career pathways. High turnover costs Exeter businesses significantly, particularly in sectors like tech, healthcare, and hospitality. Tailored leadership training creates clarity for employees, giving them a sense of purpose and progression.
Actionable Tip for Leaders:
Develop a leadership pipeline within your organisation. Identify high-potential employees and enrol them in programs like Leading Self to equip them with the skills to grow into leadership roles.
In connection with our Leading Self, we also run our Evolve Programme, which enables organisations to build the leadership DNA, enable a leadership pipeline to be established, therefore ensuring you are in a position to retain your talent.
Why It Works:
Studies show that organisations that provide leadership development see 30% lower turnover rates and higher levels of engagement. Investing in training not only creates better leaders but also builds loyalty among your workforce.
Adapt to Rapid Change with Confidence
Change is the only constant in today’s business landscape (it has always been, but particularly more obvious, post Covid). Whether navigating hybrid work models, digital transformation, or shifting consumer expectations, leaders need the tools to guide their teams through change and uncertainty.
Actionable Tip for Leaders:
Prioritise training in change management and strategic thinking. Programs like Leading Teams emphasise these skills, in fact our unique for means leaders feel prepared to make informed decisions and maintain team morale during periods of change. When we build this into our Adapt program for leadership teams, then a common language is established in the organisation, meaning change is dealt with seamlessly, new competencies are adopt with people moving through change more readily.
Why It Works:
The Devon LSIP highlights the importance of critical thinking and adaptability in tackling the challenges of digitisation and automation. Leaders who can think strategically and inspire confidence in their teams create organisations that are better equipped to weather disruptions.
Create Inclusive, Collaborative Cultures
Poor communication and siloed departments can stifle innovation and productivity. Training programs that focus on emotional intelligence, collaboration, and inclusivity are game-changers for team dynamics. This is central to all of the training that we
Actionable Tip for Leaders:
Invest in team-wide training that emphasises communication and inclusion, such as our Understand Self and Others program. We can provide highly effective team training including ongoing follow up to ensure training is embedded rather than a once done and forgotten approach that we see in many workplaces.
Why It Works:
Evidence shows that businesses with inclusive leadership consistently outperform their peers. Inclusive leaders foster trust, encourage collaboration, performance and create environments where diverse perspectives are valued. (Inclusive Leadership and Innovative Performance)
Why Leadership Training Matters for Exeter
The challenges Exeter businesses face—skills shortages, retention struggles, and adapting to change—are not insurmountable. By prioritising leadership training, you can build a resilient, innovative workforce that drives long-term success.
At The Ethical Leader, our programs are designed with Exeter businesses in mind.
Ready to Transform Your Leadership?
If you’re ready to unlock the potential of your people and tackle Exeter’s challenges head-on, let’s talk. Book a free insight call today, and together, we’ll design a leadership training program tailored to your business goals.
With actionable strategies, we help leaders create workplaces that are not only productive but also ethical, inclusive, and deeply rewarding.
Get in touch The Ethical Leader by booking a free Insight Call.