This course identifies the senior management and leadership challenges and opportunities facing those responsible for the implementation of the significant changes which have been initiated by the MOD with regard to defence acquisition.

Adopting a systems approach and building on existing knowledge and experience, this interactive course uses case studies, group exercises and presentations from both the Defence Academy and current MOD practitioners to analyse the changes brought in under Acquisition Reform and the wider Defence Reform. It assesses the new priorities, procedures, structures and interfaces which are being implemented.

At a glance

  • Dates
    • 16 - 20 Feb 2026
    • 13 - 17 Apr 2026
    • 08 - 12 Jun 2026
  • Duration5 days
  • LocationOnline
  • Cost£2,250 Concessions available

Course structure

Online delivery

What you will learn

The aim of the ICM (Advanced) course is to inform and prepare leaders and key managers within the MOD with the policy and process knowledge and higher-level thinking skills necessary to perform their roles.

By the end of the course, attendees will have acquired the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for the analysis, management, design and implementation of the new defence acquisition processes.

Core content

Course Overview. Including a discussion-driven examination of:

  • The goals and structure of the new defence acquisition processes.
  • The role of the National Armaments Director and the Military Strategic Headquarters.
  • Key principles behind defence reform and their application in the development of structures and approaches.
  • The behavioural and cultural dimensions of organisational changes and their influence on the successful implementation of the new procedures.

Strategic Context. An investigation of:

  • The effect of strategy, policy, national and international issues on defence acquisition.
  • The processes by which critical issues are assessed to determine national priorities.

Planning Processes. A practical analysis of:

  • The translation of Strategic Direction into Prioritised Strategic Outcomes.
  • The Design, Development and Delivery of an Integrated Force to achieve Strategic Outcomes.
  • The relationship between finance and defence planning assumptions.
  • Capability Coherence.
  • Implications and practicalities of Lead Service arrangements.
  • The management of interfaces and dependencies required to achieve the Strategic Requirement.

Managing. An evaluation of:

  • Operating framework.
  • The role of Portfolio management.
  • The role of Programme management.
  • The role of Sponsors, Portfolio Directors and Senior Responsible Owners.
  • Process by which MOD Allocates funding from HMT to deliver agreed Defence Outputs.
  • Risk, Issue and Opportunity Management.
  • Holding to Account.
  • The role of the NAD.

Who should attend

This course is suitable for senior military and civilian personnel from all parts of the MOD who will be carrying out defence acquisition leadership roles and responsibilities in their respective organisations.

Speakers

Concessions

A limited number of MOD sponsored places are available.

How to apply

To apply for this course please use the online application form.

Read our Professional development (CPD) booking conditions.