Inside AMA’s Award-Winning Leadership Development Approach
Published: Mar 08, 2026
The Gap Between Doing and Leading
Most people get promoted because they’re great at their jobs. But being a brilliant engineer or a top-tier analyst doesn't automatically make for a great boss. There is a difficult, often silent struggle that happens when a high performer rises from "doing" to "leading."
AMA was awarded Leadership Development Solution of the Year by HR.com for a program designed for this exact transition, From Expertise to Influence: A Sustained Leadership Development Journey for Emerging Leaders.
AMA is focused on one thing: helping people perform better so their businesses do better. This award proves that while the workplace is changing, the need for human-centered leadership is stronger than ever.
What Makes the Program Different
Rather than a one-time event, this solution is an integrated leadership system. It combines four modular, instructor-led sessions with psychometric assessments, AI-powered role playing and digital learning assets. The design ensures that insights aren't lost after the training but converted into daily habits.
Participants work on four critical pillars:
Evolve Traditional Training and Start Growing
AMA goes beyond training to build a continuous development ecosystem. This solution works because it stays with the learner as they go back to their real desk and their real team. It focuses on:
- Real-World Practice: Using AI-powered tools so new leaders can practice tough conversations before they happen.
- Ongoing Support: Providing structured reinforcement so new habits actually stick.
- Active Partnership: Getting managers involved so the entire organization supports the shift.
It’s about putting theory in practice and building the confidence to lead with credibility.
Results You Can Actually See
HR.com’s independent panel of judges looked at the data and saw a clear pattern of success. The organization using this solution didn't just have happier employees but leaders who were ready for promotion faster and felt more capable in their roles.
"This recognition reinforces our belief that leadership development is a disciplined, sustained investment," says Manny Avramidis, President & CEO of AMA. "When you turn leadership potential into measurable impact, the whole company wins."
A New Standard
Being named top leadership development solution of the year by HR.com highlights AMA’s role in helping organizations develop their talent for the long term.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the "readiness gap" such a problem for organizations?
Leadership effectiveness is a primary driver of financial outcomes and performance. Research indicates that managers account for 70% of the variance in employee engagement, and nearly half of employees who quit cite ineffective leadership as the reason. When high performers are promoted without preparation, it creates a costly gap that weakens organizational culture and reduces productivity.
How does this program differ from traditional leadership training?
Rather than a one-time event, this solution is an integrated leadership system. It combines four modular, instructor-led sessions with psychometric assessments, AI-powered role playing and digital learning assets. This ensures that insights aren't lost after the instructor-led training but are converted into daily habits.
How does the AI-powered Skill Coach work?
AMA Skill Coach provides a private, customized, judgment-free digital environment where leaders can practice AMA frameworks through realistic, job-relevant scenarios. It allows participants to rehearse difficult conversations, test different approaches and receive instant feedback at their own pace.
What kind of results has the program delivered?
The program has demonstrated a strong return on investment through measurable behavior change:
- Promotion Readiness: Over 12% of graduates earned promotions into people leadership roles within 6–12 months.
- Participant Satisfaction: The program holds a 4.8 out of 5 satisfaction rating.
- Preparedness: 98% of participants reported feeling significantly more prepared for their leadership roles.
Is the program a one-time intervention?
No. It is designed as a continuous development ecosystem. Participants retain access to an OnDemand eLearning Library and the AI Skill Coach even after the formal program ends, allowing them to revisit concepts and refine their skills as their needs evolve.