Leadership is one of the key learning and development topics that will be addressed at the forthcoming World of Learning conference and exhibition, which takes place on 27 and 28 September at the NEC, Birmingham.

Tony Kerley, Director of ERAS, will be joined by Aidan Thomas, Chief Executive of Norfolk and Waveney Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, to discuss how organisations can invest in leaders of the future.

Kerley will explore how to identify the leaders of tomorrow and ensure they have the encouragement and support in order to progress their careers. He will detail what leadership skills are required in the current business environment and how to work with line managers to nurture talent.

"What constitutes high quality leadership in business is often misunderstood. It is not about charisma, it is about inspiring people to follow a common purpose and give their all because they care and believe in the cause and the leade," he said.

Andrew Gee, senior project manager at Venture Marketing Group, organisers of the World of Learning, said: "Leadership is a crucial issue for L&D professionals, and one which has significant impact on the success of a business. It is one of the many topics under discussion at the show, and a visit to the World of Learning Conference and Exhibition will ensure visitors remain up to date with the latest news and views affecting the industry."

• Alongside the conference and exhibitors at The World of Learning Conference & Exhibition, there are many free features including:
• The seminar programme.
• The Experiential Learning Zone, facilitated by Pearlcatchers, providing hands-on sessions about creativity and communication.
• The Professional Development Zone, hosted by the British Institute for Learning & Development (BILD), where experts offer careers advice
• The Social Learning Zone.
• The International Zone, supported by UKTI, bringing L&D decision-makers from a variety of markets worldwide.

Plus skills workshops, the Workplace Wellness Zone, Trainer Base and the business and networking Lounge.

For more details about the World of Learning 2011 and about attending the event, visit www.learnevents.com.

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