The Centre for Political and Diplomatic Studies (CPDS) designs and conducts programmes of professional development for diplomats, civil servants, corporate executives and politicians. Each of these programmes is designed in consultation with a particular government or institution to meet specific objectives, whether for new entrants, team leaders, ambassadors or ministers. All CPDS programmes are interactive, offering opportunities for developing individual and team skills. Exercises are based in current international issues in real time, updated continually. The directing staff serving as mentors are themselves senior diplomats drawing on a wealth of personal professional experience as directors general at headquarters and heads of mission abroad.