FAQ
Frequently asked questions
We have put together the answers to some commonly asked questions for you.
Programme Content & Schedule
What will we actually do?
You’ll move through the four parts of leading well — becoming the leader the role needs, focusing your energy, communicating so people follow, and building an organisation that runs beyond you — through facilitated sessions, peer practice on real cases, and one-to-one coaching. You leave with a personal leadership roadmap.
See the full programme here
Who leads it, and in what language?
The Lab is led by Lisa Kretschmann, ICF-certified coach and Leadership Lab Director, and Benita Lipps, CEO and founder of Novya, with guest contributors from the sector. It runs in English, the working language of Europe’s nonprofit world.
Where and when is it?
18-20 November 2026 at Drongen Abbey, a historic abbey near Ghent, about 60–90 minutes from central Brussels.
You arrive Wednesday after lunch and leave Friday lunchtime.
How much time is it, really?
Three days away, Wednesday afternoon to Friday lunchtime — fully residential, so you can switch off the day-to-day and focus.
There’s a little light preparation (an intake and reflection form) and an optional online follow-up about four weeks later.
Qualification, Requirements & Preparation
Who is The Leadership Lab for?
It’s designed for senior people leading European associations and nonprofits — Secretaries General, Directors General, CEOs, COOs and equivalent.
It’s especially valuable in your first few years in the top role, and for leaders of smaller, leaner organisations, where you carry enormous breadth without a deep team behind you. Participants typically come from European associations, NGOs, networks, federations, foundations and think tanks.
(Not sure if it’s a fit? Book a call and we’ll be honest with you.)
Why such a small group?
Trust, openness and the time to work on each person’s real challenges only happen in a small room. A compact cohort means psychological safety, genuine candour, and relationships that last.
Do I need to attend the whole retreat?
Yes — the cohort depends on everyone being present throughout. That’s part of what makes it work. If you can’t commit to all three days, a future edition may suit you better.
Do I need to prepare anything beforehand?
There’s a little light preparation (an intake and reflection form) that you can complete in your own time.
Investment & Registration
What is included in the participation fee?
The core programme fee includes
- 6 executive themes
- 1 individual coaching session
- a personalised intake and leadership assessment
- all materials, tools, and frameworks
- a certificate of completion
- access to our ‘digital campus’ and alumni network
Optional PLUS+ packages include additional executive coaching plans for deeper individual support.
Are discounts available?
There’s an early-bird rate for registering by 15 July 2026, plus partner rates and rates for two or more colleagues from the same organisation.
Can my organisation pay?
Absolutely. Many participants have their organisations cover the investment as professional development. We can invoice your organisation directly and provide programme overview materials for your leadership or board.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations more than 6 weeks before start date receive full refund minus €100 administrative fee. Cancellations within 3 weeks are non-refundable due to the venue and catering costs, but you can give your seat to a colleague.
