Aim To evaluate outcomes from the NHS leadership development programme Leading an Empowered Organisation (LEO).

Method A prospective case study based on a pre- and post-course quantitative analysis with interpretative methodological support.

Results Role conflict, whether nurse or manager, was apparent in nurses’ perceptions of their roles. Respondents claimed many positive leadership attributes but lacked assertiveness and the skills for handling conflict. The LEO programme had a statistically significant effect on workplace leadership performance and positive benefits related to communication competence, articulation of goals, networking, assertiveness, zones of responsibility and problem solving.

Conclusion LEO is having an effect on workplace performance. However it could be improved by considering the package holistically, including not only the course content, but the entry level, pre-course preparation and post-course mentorship.