Operation Smile's Leaders See Up To 192% Capability Growth Through Groundbreaking Leadership Development Program

Created with Next Conversation Consulting and TTA, the initiative sets a new benchmark for global nonprofits and earns Brandon Hall Gold Award.

VIRGINIA  BEACH, Va., Sept. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Operation Smile has unveiled measurable, breakthrough results from a new leadership development program designed to accelerate the growth of its Regional Directors as the nonprofit expands its global footprint. The initiative — co-created with Next Conversation Consulting and TTA (The Training Associates) — delivered capability growth of up to 192% in key leadership areas, along with unprecedented engagement and sustainability metrics.

At a time when global nonprofits face mounting challenges in succession planning, cross-regional alignment, and scaling operations, Operation Smile's program sets a new benchmark for mission-driven leadership development. The initiative earned a Gold Brandon Hall Group Excellence Award for Leadership Development, one of the learning industry's most prestigious honors.

"This award proves that leadership development doesn't have to be complicated to be transformational," said Kristy Busija, CEO of Next Conversation Consulting. "When you design strategies that are simple, scalable, and sustainable, you create leaders who deliver measurable results — and cultures where people love to work."

The program established a standardized leadership profile and delivered a customized journey that included assessments, coaching, workshops, and applied projects. Regional Directors gained the confidence, tools, and strategic insight to oversee multi-country operations, strengthen local impact, and drive alignment with Operation Smile's strategic plan.

Documented Outcomes

• Up to 192% growth in leadership capability across key dimensions
• 100% attendance across all sessions, with overwhelmingly positive feedback
• Clearer leadership roles and stronger cross-regional decision-making
• Sustainable mentoring cycle, as graduates now coach future cohorts

"This program is transforming leadership far beyond its first cohort," said Scott Sparks, SVP of Global Human Resources. "By equipping leaders to champion safe surgery, advocate for comprehensive care, and strengthen local health systems, we are creating a pipeline of changemakers ready to drive lasting impact for children, families, and communities everywhere."

The Brandon Hall Group Excellence Awards recognize organizations that deliver breakthrough results through innovative leadership, learning, and talent initiatives.

See how Next Conversation Consulting's programs can drive measurable impact in your organization — contact us at [email protected].

About Next Conversation Consulting

Next Conversation Consulting helps nonprofits, government agencies, and corporations build "Ready-Now" leaders who deliver measurable impact. With a global network of seasoned consultants, coaches, and facilitators, the firm specializes in designing simple, scalable, and sustainable leadership strategies that strengthen pipelines, improve execution, and create healthier cultures.
Nextconversationconsulting.com.

Media Contact

Kristy Busija
CEO
[email protected]

SOURCE Next Conversation Consulting