This study aimed to design and validate a leadership skills development model using neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) techniques in state-owned companies, focusing on Iran Insurance Company. This developmental and quantitative research was conducted in two phases. In the first phase, key indicators, components, and dimensions of leadership skill development were identified through a systematic review and a Delphi process involving 25 NLP experts. In the second phase, a researcher-made questionnaire was distributed among 152 managers of Iran Insurance Company, and data were analyzed using inferential statistics such as KMO and Bartlett’s tests, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and analytic hierarchy process (AHP). The Cronbach’s alpha of 0.87 and a CVR value above 0.37 confirmed the reliability and validity of the instrument. The designed NLP-based leadership development model consisted of three dimensions (intrapersonal, interpersonal, and organizational), eight components, and 29 indicators. AHP results revealed that intrapersonal leadership skills ranked highest (weight = 0.279), followed by organizational (0.254) and interpersonal (0.172) skills. Among components, “self-management” (0.433) and “thinking and awareness” (0.421) held the highest importance. CFA confirmed the model’s goodness of fit with the data. NLP techniques effectively enhance leadership skills among managers in governmental organizations. Integrating NLP-based training into leadership development programs can strengthen individual, interpersonal, and organizational competencies, leading to improved performance, adaptability, and innovation in public sector leadership.