An IT services company headquartered in Chennai, certified as a Great Place to Work (GPTW), launched a strategic initiative to strengthen its leadership pipeline by investing in the development of newly promoted managers. The goal was to support 60 first-time managers in making a successful transition from individual contributors to effective people leaders.
Learning Outcome
- Transition successfully from individual contributor to first-time people manager roles
- Apply core managerial competencies including communication, delegation, decision-making, and team engagement
- Embed the organization’s values into the daily behaviour and leadership style
- Build trust and collaboration within teams to drive performance
Solution Approach
Upturn Learning co-designed a 12-week First-Time Manager Program, delivered over six months through a blended learning approach. The program included:
- In-person and virtual workshops focused on foundational managerial skills
- Mentoring sessions to offer real-time support and guidance
- On-the-job assignments to bridge theory with practice
- Integration of company values and leadership expectations throughout the journey
Results & Business Impact
- Participants showed measurable improvement in key managerial skills, including problem-solving, team communication, and structured decision-making
- Enhanced team dynamics and improved project delivery outcomes
- First-time managers demonstrated greater confidence in engaging and motivating their teams, leading to higher employee satisfaction and improved retention metrics
