Applications now open for the 2025 FESPA Australia Leaders Program

Lisa Michalanney Signageworld, Nigel Davies President FESPA Australia, Justin Kirkland Fujifilm 

Applications are now open for the 2025 FESPA Leaders Program. FESPA Australia is welcoming applications for its fourth cohort of emerging industry professionals who will develop their leadership capabilities through intensive coaching and strategic networking.

The program targets early to mid-career professionals in the print, signage, and graphics industry, providing participants with professional development opportunities typically available only to senior executives. Over two intensive days, participants work with respected corporate leadership coach Carl Harman to build leadership skills while forming connections with peers from diverse industry backgrounds.

“Our industry is constantly evolving, requiring leaders who can adapt and drive change,” said Nigel Davies, President of FESPA Australia. “This program develops a network of connected professionals who understand both current challenges and future opportunities. The relationships formed during these two days often become the foundation for commercial partnerships and industry collaboration.”

The two-day program immediately precedes the FESPA Annual Conference, which the association says allows participants to apply their learning while engaging with industry experts on key topics. Additionally, two program graduates will represent FESPA Australia at FESPA Barcelona in May 2026, connecting with industry professionals across 37 national FESPA associations worldwide.

Justin Kirkland, Account Manager for Graphic Systems NSW & ACT at Fujifilm and 2024 program graduate, described the experience as an incredible journey, saying, “Being part of such a passionate group was truly motivating. If you want to grow your leadership skills and make a real impact in our industry, I highly recommend the FESPA Leaders Program.”

Lisa Michalanney, Co-Owner of Signageworld and 2024 participant, highlighted the program's practical approach, “The program’s inclusive approach, welcoming people from all areas of the industry, makes it truly unique. It helped me recalibrate my goals, reflect on how past experiences shaped my leadership, and work through a real business challenge with support from the cohort. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to expand their network, strengthen leadership skills, and gain deeper insight into team dynamics.”

Diamond sponsor ORAFOL continues its support for the fourth consecutive year. “Our partnership with FESPA Australia reflects our ongoing commitment to developing industry talent,” said Alex McClelland, Managing Director of ORAFOL. “Supporting emerging leaders strengthens the entire industry ecosystem.”

Since its launch in 2022, the program has developed 36 industry professionals, with many graduates establishing new commercial relationships and assuming expanded leadership roles within their organisations and the Association.

Applications for the 2025 FESPA Leaders Program close on 1 August 2025. Program details and applications are available at www.fespaaustralia.org.au/leaders.