Ardonagh Group has launched an education academy that will benefit operations and staff across its global businesses including in Australia.

The Ardonagh Academy will provide programs through a blend of virtual and in-person learning, in partnership with the not-for-profit Centre for Creative Leadership, offering opportunities for people at various stages of their careers.

A paid internship program and structured graduate scheme will start next year and use the group’s footprint of offices to connect regional talent with diverse career pathways on offer across the global insurance chain.

Two new global courses will also identify and develop the skills of emerging leaders and create a cohort of future C-suite members equipped with responsible leadership skills, Ardonagh says.

Recognising the pipeline of merger and acquisition activity in the industry, Ardonagh Development Director and former Ireland rugby captain Rory Best and human strategist Bo Mills will deliver a coaching program aimed at newly formed leadership teams within the group.

Ardonagh Group CEO David Ross says company growth has been driven by people who want to leave projects, teams and clients in a better place than previously.

“This is sustainable leadership at its core and launching the Ardonagh Academy is our public commitment to seek out and develop the talented individuals to take this mindset into the future for the benefit of our industry and our clients,” he said.

Mr Ross says it’s also the group’s responsibility to ensure no-one leaves the company due to a lack of opportunity and support.

More details on the internship and graduate programs and emerging leadership programs will be available later this year.