Practice

DV455

This LSE MA module is for students who have been, or intend to become, active in driving change, whether as members of civil society organisations, in government, in aid donors or in the private sector. They will develop their understanding of intentional influencing episodes whilst working towards the design of their own influencing strategies using power analysis, systems thinking and other tools used in the wider influencing sector.

When we were tasked at Islamic Relief with a mammoth task – bring to life the work of faith based organisations in international development, we realised pretty quickly we needed a strong steer to help develop our theory of change. Duncan and Tom anchored our work, facilitated tricky conversations and helped ensure that we carved a clear path through this very grand task. A delight to work with, Duncan and Tom asked us clear questions, provided strategic insight and shared valuable feedback throughout the process.

GELI: Influencing for Senior Leaders: Analysis, Strategy, and Practice

Designed for senior leaders on United Nations Country and Humanitarian Country Teams, and the NGOs they interact with, this course sharpens their leadership and influencing skills. It focuses on the ways of thinking and tools that enable them to develop effective influencing strategies that combine public and private techniques in a blend of risk assessment, humanitarian diplomacy, media engagement, and agile responses to unforeseen events. Throughout, space is created for leaders to share insights, discuss work challenges, role play situations and simulate crises.

Our partnership with LSE has been vital in delivering the "Influencing Skills for Senior Leaders" program, empowering senior staff from the United Nations, NGOs, IFRC, and the Red Cross family in some of the world’s most complex humanitarian and development settings. In a world facing immense challenges—war, displacement, and climate change—the ability to influence key stakeholders is essential for driving meaningful change. The LSE program provides participants with an opportunity to step back, reflect, and develop strategic, impactful humanitarian diplomacy, influencing approaches to leadership. Held in regional hubs across Nairobi, Dakar, Amman, Bangkok, and Panama City, the program has been highly appreciated for its participatory methodology, experienced facilitators, and LSE’s academic rigor. Thank you to the entire team for making this possible.

Asfari Influencing and Political Acumen Programme

The Influencing and Political Acumen Programme is designed to enhance the strategic thinking and advocacy skills of professionals working in civil society organisations in the Middle East and North Africa. Combining online and in-person learning, the programme covers essential influencing strategies, contextual civil society issues, and practical skill-building. Participants receive mentoring from experts and develop influencing proposals tailored to their organisations' goals. Selected proposals may qualify for additional grant funding, enabling participants to turn their strategies into actionable projects that advocate for meaningful social change.

Chatham House Fellowships and Leadership Programme

Tom and Duncan contribute a two day workshop focussed on systems thinking, power analysis and research impact. Participants discuss and plan how to reach key stakeholders with their research.

Duncan and Tom quickly became integral partners in our leadership training programme at Chatham House. Their expertise in navigating institutional dynamics and influencing policy provided our participants with essential and practical tools to drive meaningful policy impact and deliver their projects.