Welcome to Issue 79 of the CT Brief, an edition that puts the spotlight firmly on future leadership. At a time of rapid change and growing complexity across the not-for-profit, public, and housing sectors, leadership is under the microscope like never before. From emerging talent and inclusive governance to crisis management and succession planning, this edition explores how today’s organisations are nurturing tomorrow’s leaders and reshaping themselves in the process.

In this issue, we examine the evolving face of leadership through multiple lenses. We look at Equality Diversity and Inclusion in leadership and the essential role of disability-inclusive leadership, while board shadowing and emerging talent programmes showcase how organisations are investing in the next generation. We hear from leaders in transition and explore how leadership itself is changing to meet new demands, whether through culture scans, organisational redesign, or future-proofing strategies.

This edition also reflects on what effective leadership means in practice. From crisis management to housing and mental health, and from the unique history and legacy of a community-owned housing association (WECH) to reflections on older people’s housing, we see how leadership manifests at every level. We also turn to timely discussions on football regulation, homelessness, and the cultural shifts needed to drive real change.

Whether you’re a new leader stepping up, a board member thinking ahead, or part of a team driving innovation from within, we hope this issue offers both practical insight and thoughtful reflection on what leadership looks like now, and what it must become to meet the future.