Developing the leadership skills of middle managers and equipping them to manage change are among the top learning and development priorities for organisations in 2010.

The Corporate Learning Priorities Survey 2010 conducted by Henley Business School’s Corporate Development team discovered that respondents anticipate focusing on high-potentials as they grow and develop to lead their businesses into an uncertain future, with 67% of respondents choosing ‘Managing change’ as a specific development priority for managers.

The survey, of 2,500 HR and learning development professionals, was designed to provide an up-to-date perspective of the learning & development (L&D) landscape. More than 60% of those surveyed were HR directors, vice-presidents or heads of HR or L&D in some of the UK’s largest employers.

Linda Irwin, executive director, corporate development for Henley Business School, said both the research, and conversations she has with organisations, show many are planning for the long term and not making budget cuts they may live to regret.

“Rather than axing development budgets and cutting leadership development, CEOs and HR/L&D directors have focused on those individuals who they expect will lead their organisations into a future yet to be created. Softer skills, in leadership styles and in coaching for instance, that bring out the very best in people and facilitate team working are also a priority.”