Shaping Stronger Leaders: Vencora's LIFT Program

At Vencora, we believe that exceptional leadership is the foundation of thriving teams and successful businesses. Effective leaders shape team culture, drive performance, and create the conditions needed for growth. To support our businesses in their growth, we see the importance of investing in developing and strengthening their teams. We see leadership not as a destination, but as a journey. That’s why we created the Vencora Leadership Academy, a structured, thoughtful approach to preparing our leaders for success.  

The first initiative from our Leadership Academy, the LIFT (Leading Individuals and Fostering Teamwork) Program, was designed specifically for new and emerging leaders from across the Vencora portfolio. The program helps participants develop practical leadership skills, connect with peers, and gain the confidence needed to lead teams with clarity and purpose. The program offers a unique opportunity to learn, connect, and grow together.  

What’s in the LIFT Program? 

Over ten weeks, 15 leaders from across our global portfolio of businesses engaged in a comprehensive online curriculum, covering: 

• Leadership Styles 

• Performance Management 

• Conflict Resolution 

• Effective Communication 

• Emotional Intelligence 

• Delegation 

  
  

Each topic was reinforced through pre-work, live sessions, and collaborative breakout discussions, ensuring a holistic learning experience. The program culminates in a presentation where participants share their key learnings with their stakeholders, the cohort lead, and Julie Terry, Vencora’s Talent Development Specialist. 

“At Vencora, we believe that great leaders create happy and productive teams, which helps us achieve our business goals.  Many leaders start their journey without much guidance and learn as they go. Just like you wouldn't let someone drive without lessons, we shouldn't place people into leadership roles without providing them with proper preparation.”

- Julie Terry, Talent Development Specialist at Vencora

Some of the LIFT participants with their certificates

Creating a Lasting Impact 

The LIFT Program not only equipped participants with essential leadership skills, but also fostered a network of support across Vencora's global teams, reinforcing our commitment to continuous learning and development. 

"The LIFT program is an important cornerstone in our quest to continuously develop and uplift our talent.  As a large, decentralized organization, we need to ensure that all of our leaders have the skills to lead their business without extensive oversight from Vencora.  Vencora is committed to ensuring that our talent pool grows exponentially to keep up with the strong growth of our portfolio."

- Mike Dufton, CEO of Vencora

LIFT plays a key role in accelerating career growth by helping participants identify their strengths, clarify their goals, and explore new leadership methods. For many, the program opens new doors and opportunities to create a greater impact within their organizations. 

“This leadership course has highlighted the critical role of communication, emotional intelligence, and delegation in effective leadership. By consciously focusing on strengthening these skills, I am confident in my ability to better support and empower my team, contributing to our overall success," said lana Hladik, Management Accountant at SSP.

Delivered in partnership with SCL, a leadership development organization known for its holistic, athlete-informed coaching model, LIFT also emphasizes personal wellbeing as a leadership skill. 

“LIFT came at just the right time for me. It offered space to pause and reflect, helping me reconnect with my values, my voice, and how far I’ve come in my leadership journey. What I appreciated most was how it combined practical tools with thoughtful introspection, nudging me not just to think like a leader, but to feel like one too.”

-Karin Bosch, Communications Manager at SSP

Investing in People, Powering Our Future 

Programs like LIFT are more than professional development. They’re a reflection of our commitment to the people and teams across Vencora’s portfolio. By equipping our leaders with the tools and support they need to thrive, we enable better outcomes for employees, customers, and the businesses we serve.  

 To learn more about how becoming part of our network can accelerate your business’s growth, strengthen leadership, and support long-term team development, contact us today.