Unlock the power of your presence
In a world of relentless complexity, change, and competing demands, the pressure on leaders to bring simplicity, direction and inspiration is greater than ever. Having worked with over 100,000 leaders across Australia’s most influential organisations, we know what it takes to cultivate the mindset, skillset, and toolset that empower executives to amplify their presence, expand their influence, and lead with transformative impact at the highest levels.
Executive Presence is the differentiator of today’s value-making leaders: those who go beyond functional excellence to create movements of progress and possibility.
Grounded in our value-making leadership philosophy, we take you to the core of executive presence, exploring the foundations of self-belief, confidence and authentic influence.
Designed for executives and senior leaders, this two-day immersive learning program will transform how you engage, inspire and influence your stakeholders in any setting.
Drawing on more than two decades of expertise in leadership development, culture transformation, executive coaching and performance psychology, our expert facilitation fuses the latest communication techniques with deep insight into what it means to lead powerfully and purposefully.
Walk away ready to command a boardroom, deliver a high-stakes pitch, or inspire a team with presence and impact that moves people and ideas forward.
This is your opportunity to own the moment and unlock the power of your presence.
Who this program is for
Executive and senior leaders across industries who are ready to:
· Build powerful executive presence
· Strengthen communication impact
· Lead with confidence in high-stakes environments
· Translate complex ideas into clear, actionable messages that drive alignment
· Deepen self-belief and presence to influence how you are experienced as a leader
Whether you are presenting to your board, leading a town hall, or driving strategic alignment across your business, this program provides the tools, structure, and coaching to sharpen your ability to influence outcomes and lead with conviction.
How the program will transform your leadership impact
Through a unique blend of communication style analysis, and structured planning with real-time coaching and feedback, you will gain practical tools and techniques to use immediately.
You will walk away able to:
· Structure and tailor your message for any audience and outcome
· Land key messages with clarity, precision and executive relevance
· Engage audiences with advanced delivery techniques: voice, eye contact, movement, pacing, humour, and presence
· Translate complexity into simplicity for diverse audiences
· Apply techniques to overcome nerves and present with confidence
· Receive expert real-time coaching, video feedback and clear development milestones
· Build a personalised plan to continue your growth beyond the program
The Agenda
Pre-Work for Day One
Ahead of the program, you will come prepared with a 3–5-minute presentation. This can be one you are currently developing or have recently delivered in your role (please ensure any commercially sensitive or confidential information is removed).
This presentation will be used as the foundation for practice, feedback, and development throughout the course.
You’ll deliver this presentation over the two days, progressively applying your learnings and receiving targeted feedback.
Day One: Structures and strategies for powerful communication
· Planning and preparation to present with impact
· Understanding your audience
· Structuring your communication for clarity and influence
· Crafting persuasive messaging to drive alignment and action
Day Two: Practical application of tools and techniques
· Building self-belief and confidence as a presenter
· Mastering advanced delivery skills
· Adapting for online and hybrid delivery environments
· Feedback and real-time coaching
Your Facilitator: Mark Sowden
Mark brings over 15 years of expertise in senior leadership development, coaching executives across industries to shift behaviour, lift performance and embed lasting cultural change.
Mark blends a high-challenge approach with a nurturing coaching style, focusing on what executive leaders and organisations need to do to shift the dial on behaviour change and performance.
Credentials snapshot:
· Rogen-trained presenter
· Experienced facilitator, keynote speaker and coach
· Bachelor of Science (Honours) Sports Science and Psychology Post Graduate Certificate in Education
· Accredited in Goleman ESCI, emotional intelligence
· Accredited in Talent Q Dimensions and Elements
· Accredited in Korn Ferry Hay Group, Leadership Styles and Organisational Climate
Mark partners with organisations to equip executive leaders with the mindset, focus and behavioural discipline required to drive sustained organisational performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is this course for?
Senior and executive leaders who wish to sharpen their ability to present and influence with confidence at the highest levels.
What makes this learning experience different from a typical business course?
The Maximus leadership philosophy is based on a deep, human-centred approach to leadership development. Rather than focusing solely on skills, this program works from the inside out, building authentic presence through mindset, self-belief, and psychological insight. With real-time coaching, individualised feedback, and a small group format, this immersive experience delivers practical tools alongside profound personal growth, equipping you not just to present, but to lead with clarity, confidence, and conviction.
Do I need to bring or prepare anything?
A laptop and a 3–5 minute presentation. This could be a presentation you’re currently working on or have recently delivered as part of your role. Please ensure you have removed any commercially sensitive or confidential information. This will form the basis for your practice, feedback and development during the program.
Where is the course held?
Maximus International, Jones Bay Wharf, Suite 127, 26-32 Pirrama Road, Pyrmont NSW 2009. Paid parking is available onsite at Jones Bay Wharf car park. Please ensure you arrive by 8.45am for a prompt start at 9am on both days.
I’m not based in Sydney, can I attend?
Yes. If travelling interstate, we can recommend nearby accommodation.
Can I attend virtually?
This course is held in-person only due to its highly interactive nature.
What’s included in the course fee?
All course materials, coaching, refreshments and lunch.
Is catering provided?
Yes, refreshments and lunch are provided. Please advise any dietary requirements.
How do I pay for the course?
Full payment details will be provided upon registration. Payments can be made securely by debit or credit card.
Can my organisation book multiple places?
Yes. Up to 10 places can be booked online. For larger group bookings, please contact us using the form below.
When is the latest I can book?
Bookings close 5 working days prior to each course (subject to availability).
How will information shared during the session remain confidential?
We advise to avoid any sensitive information in the pre-work and during the session. Chatham House Rules will apply throughout the two days.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
Refunds are not available, but you may transfer your booking to a colleague at any time or reschedule to a later date.
