We are delighted to announce the return of our Future Leaders programme for 2025, with applications now open for a second cohort.
Building on the achievements of the inaugural cohort in 2024, the 2025 programme will continue to focus on equipping the next generation of leaders to positively influence the future of statistics and data science, both within the profession and beyond.
Our aim
Motivated by the phrase ‘you cannot be what you cannot see’, our Future Leaders programme aims to celebrate the diversity of the data professions and empower data professionals from underrepresented groups to pursue leadership positions within the RSS and the wider data community, working with us to inspire future generations of statisticians, data scientists and data analysts.
The Future Leaders programme, funded by the Academy of Social Sciences (AcSS), also provides access to RSS training courses and the opportunity to connect with, learn from and support other data professionals through our mentoring platform.
Participants will take part in a structured programme of professional development workshops, mentoring and collaborative projects, with access to senior figures from across academia, government and industry. The scheme has been designed to complement participants’ existing roles, encouraging them to apply their learning in real-world contexts.
Applicant criteria
Ten places are available in the 2025 cohort, offering a unique opportunity for emerging talent to build confidence, develop leadership skills and expand their networks across the wider statistics and data landscape.
This year, the programme is open to both existing members and non-members of the RSS, and typically in the early stages of their professional career (usually within 10 years of their most recent qualification). You can view profiles of the 2024 cohort here.
To become one of our Future Leaders, you must:
Successful applicants will be invited to attend an in-person meeting at the RSS offices in London on a date to be confirmed in August. Applicants may also be invited to attend our RSS Conference, subject to availability.
To apply, please complete this form. Applications are now open and will close on Monday 4 August.