Upgrading the skills of managers is fundamental to the government's aim to raise UK productivity and competitiveness. The MSC was responsible for developing a new set of National Occupational Standards (NOS) for management and leadership in May 2004. They describe the level of performance expected in employment for a range of management and leadership functions/activities.

As an employer led organisation which champions management and leadership the MSC is working with the Skills for Business Network to identify and address the skills gaps and shortages on a sector by sector basis thereby contributing to the profitability of the UK.