We’re recruiting for a third Action Learning Group, expanding our support for the North East’s growing community of university spinout leaders. Our Action Learning Groups are part of our Spinout Leaders’ Network. They give founders, CEOs and senior leaders a trusted space to work through the issues that keep them awake at night.
Our first two Action Learning Groups have brought together leaders from across the region’s university spinouts. They’ve shared experiences, challenged assumptions, and supported one another through the unique pressures of scaling a research based business. Now, following their success, we’re opening recruitment for a new cohort launching in July 2026.
What is an Action Learning Group?
Action Learning is a powerful peer to peer approach where leaders bring real issues to the table. Whether it’s creating the right company culture, balancing academic and commercial responsibilities, navigating organisational change, or responding to new opportunities. Each session focuses on a live challenge chosen by the group. This enables members to explore the issue collaboratively and leave with clarity, insights and practical next steps.
As one current member describes it:
“I like using a structured process that allows me to talk through an issue, be questioned by people with no vested interest in the outcome and coached to find solutions for myself. We are all open and constructive in feedback and the sessions can help you get unstuck.”
Who is the new group for?
This third Action Learning Group is designed primarily for founders and leaders of new or recently established spinouts. We may include some senior managers from more established companies to ensure a rich mix of skills and experience.
How does it work?
- Meetings: A half day session every other month
- Locations: Venues in Newcastle or Durham
- Facilitator: The group is expertly led by Sarah Salter, Executive Coach, former Northumbrian Water HR Director and experienced non Executive Director
- Cost: Membership is fully funded by Northern Accelerator via Research England’s Connecting Capability Fund through the SCENE project
- The groups operate on a foundation of absolute confidentiality, providing a safe space for honest discussion under Chatham House style conventions.
Apply by 19 April 2026
If you’re a spinout founder, CEO or senior leader within a Northern Accelerator partner university, this is an opportunity to invest in your own development and benefit from the collective experience of peers who truly understand your world.
Visit our Action Learning Groups page for FAQs and instructions on how to apply.
