Leap forward in your career through BIA's program of transformation

In this blog, Alina O'Keeffe, Associate Director of Marketing and Communications at the BIA, explores the transformative BIA MAC Leadership Programme (LeaP) — a unique initiative empowering emerging bioprocessing professionals to accelerate their careers and strengthen leadership across the UK life sciences sector. With 76% of participants reporting career progression, LeaP is shaping the next generation of biotech leaders.

When we think of revolutions, we often picture moments of dramatic change that make the headlines. But some of the most meaningful transformations happen quietly — in how we think, work, and lead. The BIA MAC Leadership Programme (LeaP) is one such example, helping to drive lasting change in leadership across the UK’s biomanufacturing community.

LeaP is designed to empower emerging leaders in bioprocessing with the skills, confidence and connections to accelerate their careers. Through peer-to-peer networking, site visits and knowledge sharing, as well as mentorship and “lunch and learn” sessions from industry leaders, participants gain the practical tools and insight needed to lead effectively in a rapidly evolving sector.

Career progression through LeaP

Our latest feedback survey, completed by 42 alumni, shows the tangible impact of LeaP: 76% of respondents reported career progression since completing the programme. Among these, 21 received a promotion within their company, and two experienced a role change within their organisation, while five advanced through a role change at a new organisation, and four were promoted while moving to a new company. 

These outcomes speak for themselves. LeaP is not just a training programme — it’s a launchpad for professional growth and leadership development.

Building leaders for a stronger biomanufacturing sector

Any organisation is only as strong as the people within it — and the same holds true for our sector. Recognising the need to strengthen leadership in UK biomanufacturing, the BIA’s Manufacturing Advisory Committee (MAC) created LeaP to fill that critical skills gap.

Through the programme, participants gain fresh perspectives on how others solve common challenges, visit world-class manufacturing facilities, and learn how different medicine types are made. They also build a network of peers and mentors that continues to support them long after the programme ends. The data shown above is clear evidence of the value the LeaP programme offers.

As one participant reflected:

The BIA LeaP Programme was an invaluable experience for me. The visits to other biotech companies and the knowledge sharing that came with this has been incredible. It helped me to build strong connections within my field which has led to great collaboration and problem solving within my day-to-day role.

About LeaP

Run in small cohorts of 12 participants to ensure manageable numbers for site visits, focused, tailored learning and structured networking, the initiative is designed specifically for emerging managers in bioprocessing.

The programme mixes site visits, facility tours, leadership talks and seminars, mentorship from industry leaders and wraps up with a collaborative team project tackling real bioprocessing challenges today.

To date, eight cohorts have completed the programme, with 164 participants from more than 50 BIA member companies across the UK.

Take the next step in your leadership journey

If you work for a BIA member company and are ready to LeaP forward in your career, contact Netty or visit our webpage to learn more about how you can join the next cohort.