Reverse Mentoring Scheme now live: A unique opportunity for growth

What is reverse mentoring?

The Reverse Mentoring Scheme flips the traditional mentoring model. In this initiative, senior leaders and emerging talent are paired together in a mentoring relationship where the ‘mentee’ has the opportunity to share valuable insights with the ‘mentor.’ This provides senior leaders with insights and perspectives from those in earlier stages of their career or with individuals they may not otherwise meet. The scheme aims to bridge the gap, foster mutual learning, and promote an inclusive culture by leveraging the unique skills and knowledge of people in our organisation.

Purpose and benefits of the scheme

• Creates a two-way learning experience that encourages dialogue and learning from different backgrounds, experiences, and generations.
• Partnerships can gain a deeper understanding of emerging trends and diverse viewpoints that can drive the RNLI forward.
• Fresh perspectives, personal growth, increased inclusivity, relationship building, and leadership development.

Commitment and expectations

The scheme anticipates a commitment of 1-2 hours per month for 6-9 months, or as agreed upon between each pairing.

• For mentees (senior leaders): Gain fresh perspectives, learn about emerging trends, and develop your leadership approach.
• For mentors (junior person): Enhance your coaching skills, gain visibility, and make a meaningful impact on our organisation.
• Networks (anyone): Build connections and develop professional contacts by sharing information and building relationships across the RNLI.

If you would like to know more, please refer to the Reverse Mentoring Role Profile (PDF - 603KB).

We’re looking for participants who:

• Have a willingness to work towards a more inclusive environment.
• Are good listeners who can engage in meaningful dialogue.
• Can take on feedback in a constructive manner.
• Are respectful of others' views and can hold space for diverse opinions.
• Are comfortable challenging their own thinking and that of others in a supportive environment.
• Can share and explain concepts simply, ensuring that ideas are easily understood.

How to sign up

To participate in the Reverse Mentoring Scheme:

• Fill out the questionnaire linked below. This will help us understand your interests and preferences for the mentoring relationship.
• Once we’ve received your questionnaire, the Young People’s Network (YPN) will be in touch to pair you with a mentee or mentor.
• After the pairing is made, you’ll begin your journey of learning, growth, and collaboration.

Sign up to participate in the Reverse Mentoring Scheme.

Applications close on 16 October 2026 and successful pairings will be assigned by the beginning of November.

This opportunity is open to volunteers and staff. We look forward to seeing the impact these conversations will have as we continue to build a more collaborative and forward-thinking workplace. Don't miss out – sign up today and start your reverse mentoring journey!

Hear from previous experiences

‘I really valued the time that I got to spend with my reverse mentor, it provided a valuable learning opportunity to spend some time with someone from the regional team and learn the challenges/successes that we were both experiencing to shape future priorities and approaches.’

‘I enjoyed learning about another part of the organisation and having insight into the views and thoughts of others from a more diverse perspective.’

‘Reverse mentoring has been a brilliant exercise in humility. I’ve had different relationships with different mentors; one was an excellent coach who I would bring almost any problem and she’d give me a fantastic grilling to help me get to the bottom of a problem, another was passionate and inspiring and gave me fire in my belly to strive harder for inclusivity, and a third was a great communicator and strategist who helped me shape and communicate our plans much more clearly. Come to this arrangement with an open mind, and I guarantee that you’ll find a mentor with a passion for change that is infectious to be around!’

Any questions?

Reverse mentoring is an excellent way to promote inclusion, innovation, and open communication across all levels of the organisation. Pairings encourage a culture where feedback across grades and departments is welcomed, discussed, acted upon appropriately, and shared widely.

If you have any questions, please email [email protected]