MBS Emerging Leaders Scholarship
Scholarship opportunities for the 2026 program are now available with applications due by Friday 17 October
Two fully funded and two partially-funded scholarships are available, providing the opportunity to attend the FEAL/MBS Emerging Leaders Program in May 2026. Granting of the partially funded scholarships are conditional on the applicant and/or their fund meeting the remaining 50% cost of participation in the program.
2026 Emerging Leaders Program
The dates of the 5-day program: Week commencing 25 May 2026
This program is suitable for senior managers or other high performers who aspire to be a future fund executive and are looking to develop their leadership skills. Taught by some of MBS’s senior faculty. The Program includes sessions on leadership, innovation & change, people management, strategy, marketing, finance, project management and navigating uncertain futures.
“I had the opportunity to complete an incredible journey through Fund Executives Association Limited Emerging Leaders Program at Melbourne Business School. An experience that is already reshaping the way I think about leadership, purpose, and impact.
The course challenged me to think bigger, lead with integrity, and connect more deeply with my purpose. I walked away not only with new strategies and tools, but with a renewed sense of responsibility to lead with vision and impact.
In just a short time, I’ve been surrounded by brilliant minds, thought-provoking conversations, and a learning environment that challenges me to grow, stretch, and lead with greater intention. Meeting a fantastic group of fellow leaders who I learned just as much from their stories as I did from the curriculum.
This opportunity isn’t just a chapter in my career—it’s a catalyst. Thank you FEAL and 1886 Consulting for sponsoring, Chris Davies, Melinda Huggins and TelstraSuper for supporting my professional development. I’m committed to paying it forward, creating impact in the communities and spaces I serve.
If you’re considering the Emerging Leaders Program, I wholeheartedly encourage it. Growth doesn’t begin with comfort—it begins with opportunity. And I’m incredibly grateful to have found both.”
“Participating in the MBS Emerging Leaders Program was a remarkable experience. The depth of knowledge and passion exhibited by the team from Melbourne Business School was impressive and the opportunity to engage with my industry peers has had an immediate, positive impact on my work. I left with a greater appreciation for the wider function of my industry and a clear path for my own personal development. The only regret I have, is that I didn’t enrol sooner!
Thank you to FEAL for making this happen, UniSuper for supporting my professional development and to the amazing 1886 Consultants for sponsoring the scholarship that enabled me to attend.”
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply?
To apply for the MBS Emerging Leaders Scholarships click on the ‘Apply Now’ tab above to complete an online application form. If you need assistance please contact FEAL.
Eligibility
This program is suitable for senior managers or other high performers who aspire to be a future fund executive and are looking to develop their leadership skills.
What are the selection panel looking for?
The selection panel is looking for concise, relevant and informative responses to the questions posed in the application form. In a two or three paragraph response provide a strong ‘business case’ as to why you should receive a scholarship this year. Consider how the program content would assist you in meeting your professional and career goals, or in achieving specific KPIs. Try to be clear and direct and help the selection panel understand how the scholarship opportunity would be helpful to you.
Who is on the selection panel?
Your application will be treated with the strictest confidence at all times by our selection panel: Vivek Chaudhri - MBS program facilitator, Doug Talbot - 1886 Consulting, TBC - FEAL director, Katrina Bacon - CEO, FEAL and Brian Delaney - Chair, FEAL.
Key dates to remember:
Scholarship applications opened on Wednesday 3rd September and close Friday 17th October 2025. The winners will be announced during the FEAL AGM on Wednesday 12th November during the lunch break at the ASFA Conference on the Gold Coast.
I have submitted an application previously but was not successful – should I apply again?
Former applicants are encouraged to reapply. Review your previous scholarship application and consider how you could improve it. Ensure the question responses reflect your current thoughts and needs.
I am not a FEAL member. Can I still apply?
The ability to receive FEAL scholarships is one of the benefits of FEAL Membership. First check FEAL Membership if your employer is a member of FEAL, in which case you are eligible to apply for all FEAL scholarships. If your employer is not currently a member of FEAL but is a profit-to-member superannuation fund then contact us at FEAL to discuss FEAL membership.
Past winners
Terms and Conditions
Applications received after the specified deadline will not be considered
The decision of the selection panel is final and no subsequent correspondence will be entered into
The MBS Emerging Leaders Scholarship is open to FEAL members only
Granting of the partially funded scholarships are conditional on the applicant and/or their fund meeting the remaining 50% cost of participation in the program
Applicants must be employed with their fund at the time of the Scholarship
Successful applicants may be called upon to deliver a report to FEAL members
FEAL Directors are not eligible to apply
The scholarship covers tuition and accommodation (travel expenses, and costs outside this must be covered by the recipient)