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Women in Football’s expertise in professional development has led to a new partnership with British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) – empowering a whole new cohort of women with leadership skills.

The partnership will see WIF running the award-winning BUCS & FA Women’s Leadership Programme for the next three years, after winning out in a rigorous competitive tender process.

Launched in 2019, the BUCS & FA Women’s Leadership Programme has been instrumental in supporting and empowering female students who aspire to careers in the football industry and sport more widely. The programme has created a powerful network of future leaders with the skills, confidence, and opportunities to thrive – helping to redress the balance in a sector where women remain underrepresented in leadership roles.

After BUCS invited bids from potential partners to lead the programme into its next chapter, Women in Football emerged as the strongest candidate by virtue of the organisation’s expertise and proven track record in developing female leaders.

With over 750 women now having taken part in the Women in Football Leadership Course – with stunning results in terms of career development and confidence – WIF’s experience in the field is second to none.

Another deciding factor was the perfect alignment of values between WIF, BUCS, the FA and their vision for the programme. All three organisations believe strongly that development, inclusion, and equal access to opportunity are vital in making the sports industries a place where aspiring leaders of any gender can flourish. 

 

World-class

Women in Football CEO Yvonne Harrison said: “The Women in Football team is truly excited by the opportunity to help develop even more female leaders of the future through the BUCS & FA Women’s Leadership Programme.

“Given the combined expert knowledge and dedication of WIF, BUCS and the FA, young women joining the programme can be certain of a world-class professional launchpad for their ambitions in the sports industries.”

Dan Matthews, BUCS Senior Football Development Manager, said: "We are delighted to announce Women in Football as our new partner for the Women’s Leadership Programme. Their passion, expertise, and commitment to equality are the perfect match for BUCS and the FA. This partnership will ensure students continue to access transformative experiences that shape confident, capable leaders for the future."

The next cohort of the BUCS & FA Women’s Leadership Programme will launch later this year, continuing to inspire and empower students to lead, influence, and shape the future of football. Through their new partnership, BUCS and Women in Football will work hand in hand to ensure the programme’s continued impact for years to come.

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