Deloitte University develops the leaders of the future : … and keeps employees at the leading edge in their fields

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to observes how global financial consultancy Deloitte is training its future leaders. Design/methodology/approach – The background to the various programs, the form they take and the results they are achieving have been explained. Findings – This study describes the functioning of Deloitte University in Texas, USA, and explains that a similar institution recently opened in Belgium for prospective Deloitte managers from Europe, the Middle East and Africa. In addition, it reveals how coaching works at Deloitte and details a number of programs aimed at increasing the chances of women and people from ethnic and other minorities to reach the top jobs. Practical implications – The fact that competition for talent in the coming years will be challenging has been emphasized and that Deloitte University helps the organization to attract and retain talent by distinguishing the company from its competitors. Social implications – This study reveals that Deloitte is keen to develop leaders of the future from a wide range of backgrounds. Originality/value – A range of leadership development initiatives at a key global company has been detailed.