R&D update: growing the next generation of nursery leaders
27 March 2026
27 March 2026
Many nursery businesses rely on experienced staff stepping into leadership roles as they grow, but those staff don’t always receive formal leadership training.
The Nursery Emerging Leaders Program (NELP) (NY24004) helps address this challenge. Funded by Hort Innovation through the nursery industry R&D levy and Australian Government contributions, the program equips emerging talent with practical leadership skills, industry insights and national peer networks.
This update draws on insights from the latest Nursery Paper, Growing the next generation of nursery leaders.
Why this matters for nursery businesses
Many nursery businesses rely on experienced staff stepping into leadership roles as the business grows or moves through succession. Without structured support, emerging leaders may struggle with people management, decision-making or communication responsibilities – creating risk for business continuity and workforce stability.
Investing in leadership capability strengthens teams, improves workplace culture and prepares the next generation of managers.
Key outcomes for the industry
Early results from the first cohort of 15 participants show that emerging leaders are already applying new skills in their workplaces. Growers are seeing:
- Stronger team communication and collaboration, including initiatives such as ‘Feedback Fridays’, where teams reflect on achievements, challenges and improvements during toolbox meetings
- More confident supervisors making operational and strategic decisions, supported by improved delegation that allows more time for strategic work
- Increased capability to plan for business growth and succession
- Peer networks that foster ongoing knowledge sharing across the sector, including the establishment of a NELP Alumni group to support ongoing connection between participants
These outcomes demonstrate how investing in leadership capability supports both individual businesses and the wider nursery sector.
Practical takeaways for growers
Even without formal leadership training, nursery businesses can:
- encourage emerging leaders to take ownership of projects or teams
- provide opportunities for staff to practise management and decision-making
- support peer learning and industry networking
Learn more
Planning is underway for the next intake of the Nursery Emerging Leaders Program, scheduled to begin in November 2026.
For more information or to receive updates on the next program intake, contact Jeanette Gellard, Principal, Innovative Influences, at jeanette@innovativeinfluences.com.au, or read the full Nursery Paper.
The Nursery Emerging Leaders Program (NY24004) is funded by Hort Innovation using the Nursery Industry research and development levy and funds from the Australian Government. The program is delivered by Innovative Influences in partnership with Susie Green Consulting.
