The Atlanta-based consulting firm, Summit Strategies, announced today the launch of its new leadership development program, “Ascend,” aimed at equipping mid-level managers with the skills to navigate complex business challenges. This initiative comes at a critical time, as companies grapple with economic uncertainty and the need for strong leadership to drive innovation and growth. But will it be enough to reverse the trend of declining employee engagement?
Key Takeaways
- Summit Strategies launches “Ascend,” a new leadership development program focused on risk management and strategic decision-making.
- The program incorporates case studies of successful companies, including Delta Air Lines and The Home Depot, analyzing their leadership strategies.
- “Ascend” features interviews with industry leaders and experts, providing real-world perspectives and actionable insights.
- The first cohort of 30 participants begins the 12-week program on July 15, 2026, at Summit Strategies’ Midtown Atlanta headquarters.
Context: The Growing Need for Strong Leadership
The demand for effective leadership development has never been higher. A recent study by the Pew Research Center found that only 34% of employees feel their leaders are adequately prepared to handle the challenges of a rapidly changing business environment. This skills gap can lead to decreased productivity, higher turnover rates, and a general sense of disengagement among employees. We’ve seen that firsthand. Last year, I consulted with a local manufacturing company struggling with low morale. Their problem? A lack of clear direction and consistent communication from management. They desperately needed to invest in their people.
Program Highlights: Case Studies and Expert Insights
“Ascend” stands out due to its practical, case-study-driven approach. The program incorporates detailed analyses of leadership strategies employed by successful Georgia-based companies, such as Delta Air Lines and The Home Depot. Participants will examine how these organizations navigated crises, fostered innovation, and built strong company cultures. In one module, attendees will dissect Delta’s swift response to the 2020 pandemic, evaluating their decisions regarding resource allocation and employee support. The curriculum also delves into The Home Depot’s supply chain management strategies, a critical area given ongoing global disruptions.
Furthermore, “Ascend” features interviews with industry leaders and experts, providing participants with real-world perspectives and actionable insights. These interviews cover a range of topics, including risk management, strategic decision-making, and effective communication. Summit Strategies has confirmed interviews with the CEO of a Fortune 500 company (who wishes to remain anonymous) and a leading professor of organizational behavior at Emory University’s Goizueta Business School. The program also includes regular features exploring risk management strategies, helping leaders anticipate and mitigate potential threats. One session, in particular, focuses on using scenario planning to prepare for unforeseen circumstances – a technique that I’ve found invaluable in my own consulting work.
Implications: Impact on Atlanta Businesses
The launch of “Ascend” has the potential to significantly impact businesses in the Atlanta metropolitan area. By equipping mid-level managers with the skills and knowledge they need to lead effectively, the program aims to foster a stronger and more resilient business community. A recent report by the Atlanta Chamber of Commerce highlighted the need for increased investment in leadership development to drive economic growth and attract top talent to the region. The Chamber estimates that companies in metro Atlanta spend an average of $1,500 per employee on training and development annually, but much of this investment is focused on technical skills rather than leadership capabilities. Here’s what nobody tells you: technical skills are useless without the ability to inspire and motivate a team.
The first cohort of 30 participants will begin the 12-week program on July 15, 2026, at Summit Strategies’ headquarters in Midtown Atlanta. The program will be led by a team of experienced consultants and industry experts, including Dr. Anya Sharma, a renowned expert in organizational psychology. (I’ve had the pleasure of collaborating with Dr. Sharma on several projects; she’s brilliant.)
What’s Next: Scaling and Expansion
Summit Strategies plans to scale the “Ascend” program in the coming years, expanding its reach to other cities and industries. The firm is also exploring the possibility of offering online versions of the program to make it more accessible to a wider audience. “We believe that strong leadership is essential for success in today’s rapidly changing business environment,” said CEO of Summit Strategies, David Miller, in a press release. “Our goal is to empower leaders at all levels of their organizations to drive innovation, foster collaboration, and achieve their full potential.” According to AP News, the demand for leadership training is projected to grow by 15% over the next five years, making initiatives like “Ascend” increasingly important. The company is also considering partnering with local universities, such as Georgia Tech, to offer continuing education credits for program participants.
The launch of Summit Strategies’ “Ascend” program represents a significant investment in the future of leadership development. By providing practical, case-study-driven training and expert insights, the program aims to equip mid-level managers with the skills they need to navigate complex business challenges and drive organizational success. It’s a step in the right direction, but the real test will be whether participants can translate what they learn into tangible results within their own organizations. Consider how efficiency is key in 2026.
Who is leading the “Ascend” program?
The program is led by a team of experienced consultants and industry experts from Summit Strategies, including Dr. Anya Sharma, an expert in organizational psychology.
How long is the “Ascend” program?
The program is a 12-week intensive course.
Where will the “Ascend” program be held?
The program will be held at Summit Strategies’ headquarters in Midtown Atlanta.
What is the focus of the “Ascend” program?
The program focuses on equipping mid-level managers with the skills to navigate complex business challenges, including risk management and strategic decision-making.
How can I register for the “Ascend” program?
Registration details and program information can be found on the Summit Strategies website.
