Devon Wildlife Trust (DWT) is the only charity dedicated to protecting all wildlife across Devon. Following a sustained period of growth, DWT recognised its expanding workforce required a unified approach to leadership and people management.

In early 2024, DWT partnered with Crisp Professional Development to co-create and deliver a bespoke Leadership Skills Programme. Their goal was clear: equip line managers at all levels with the confidence, skills and shared language to lead effectively, manage consistently, and support DWT’s mission of safeguarding Devon’s natural environment.

Building a Bespoke Solution, Together

DWT came to Crisp with a clear, detailed brief. They wanted an external partner who would genuinely understand the Trust’s unique context and experience within their management group.

Through a discovery and design phase, Crisp worked closely with DWT’s Leadership Team and HR Manager. Reviewing the charity’s own Training Needs Analysis (TNA) to shape a practical, engaging, four-day development journey.

A crucial part of the programme’s design was the initial Leadership Team day, ensuring senior leaders were aligned, prepared to champion the programme, and equipped to embed learning in the months ahead.

Practical, Insightful and Impactful Learning

Delivered across two cohorts, the Leadership Skills Programme brought together 28 managers, from first-time line managers to seasoned team leaders. The programme focused on four core themes:

Leading Self

Building self-awareness, understanding personal impact, and strengthening emotional intelligence.

Communicating with Impact

Handling challenging conversations, giving effective feedback, and setting clear expectations.

Creating Capacity

Managing priorities, time, and energy whilst developing high-performing teams.

Leading Change

Understanding change dynamics and embedding practical leadership models.

Building Confidence and a Connected Community

One of DWT’s key goals was to create a more connected management community across its dispersed sites and varied teams. The programme provided a rare opportunity for managers to step back from their day-to-day work, share challenges and successes, and build supportive relationships that last beyond the classroom.

“This is the first management training I have ever had, and I am finding the course extremely useful. It’s given me much more confidence, and it’s been so valuable learning alongside other managers I’d rarely meet day-to-day.”

By creating this safe space for reflection and open discussion, managers discovered not only practical tools but also a shared language for handling the challenges of strong leadership.

They developed a deeper awareness of how their own behaviour and communication styles impact their teams;  a shift that’s already improving how they navigate tricky conversations and build trust.

“This has helped me prioritise making time for managing people properly. I’m giving better feedback, having the right conversations. I feel better equipped to lead and manage performance.”

Managers also praised Crisp’s practical approach, which balanced frameworks with real-life scenarios and open dialogue. This flexible style meant every participant felt heard and able to apply what they learned straight away.

“The trainer’s style allows us to properly explore topics together. It’s insightful and relevant, and he makes it enjoyable, which means it sticks!”

A Meaningful Celebration and Next Steps

The programme culminated in a dedicated Celebration Day, bringing both cohorts back together to reflect, share learning and plan how they’ll continue to lead well at DWT. The day reinforced DWT’s shared vision of what great leadership looks like, and gave managers practical actions to sustain momentum.

Tangible Impact and a Stronger Management Culture

Already, the impact of the Leadership Skills Programme is clear. Managers’ report feeling more confident and consistent in how they lead, with practical tools to manage performance, navigate challenging situations and build trust within their teams. Therefore, they feel more connected to each other, supporting collaboration across the Trust.

“The content and delivery was outstanding. The pace was spot on, with time to reflect and digest. I’ve done several courses with Crisp before and they’re always excellent, this one  stood out for how relevant it was for us.”

“The fact DWT invested in this for us shows how much they value good people management. It’s given me practical techniques I use daily.”

Looking Ahead

The partnership between Devon Wildlife Trust and Crisp has helped create a shared leadership language and stronger foundations for DWT’s next chapter of growth.

By equipping line managers with practical tools and the confidence to lead authentically, DWT is building a culture where people management is prioritised and leadership is consistent. This is helping their people thrive so they can continue protecting Devon’s wildlife for generations to come.

For more information about how Crisp can create a tailored leadership solution for your charity or organisation, please get in touch for a complimentary learning consultation.