SMBC partners with CoLabL to design, manage, and facilitate the NextGen Leaders Pod Mentoring program, a structured mentorship experience focused on expanding networks, strengthening relationships, and accelerating career growth across the firm. What began as a 24-person pilot quickly scaled to 65 cross-functional, multi-level, and geographically diverse participants, reflecting strong organizational demand and commitment to developing future leaders.
Over six months, participants engaged in pod mentoring and group coaching sessions built around participant-prioritized topics including personal branding, communication, networking, strategic thinking, managing up and across, and leadership presence. Sessions were designed to be practical and immediately applicable, helping participants navigate their careers with greater clarity and confidence.
The program created intentional space for relationship building across teams and geographies, giving participants access to diverse perspectives and a stronger sense of belonging within the firm. The experience reflects SMBC’s commitment to mentorship culture and CoLabL’s belief that relationships drive change. Strong engagement led directly to the launch of the next cohort in Fall 2026.
2025 Impact Highlights
- Scaled from 24 pilot participants to 65 across functions, levels, and geographies
- 4.3 out of 5 overall experience rating
- 90% would participate again and recommend the program to others
- 85% reported learning something new and expanding their professional network
