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Maria S.

L&D Director

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Top Insider Advice

Development never stops so own it; be the driver of your own skills development. Take time to build relationships and networks. Be brave to use your voice. No question is a stupid question so speak up if you need to ask or want to understand. Stay curious: everyone is human regardless of their level. People are always on hand to help so be confident to ask for it! Culture is key and great teams make great things happen!

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Career path

L&D Director

First Central

Started 01/2017 to Present

Company

What do you like about your job and the company?

People, People, People. They’re what make us who we are. We get things done around here, together! We have very clear goals as an organisation and everyone pulls in the same direction. Our Execs are approachable and always on hand for guidance. Ideas are welcomed and we never sit still, always wanting to be better and share in the success. Development programmes are designed to meet the needs of the business and we continually develop the talents and skills of our colleagues supporting their personal growth which creates an atmosphere of learning and knowledge sharing. And it’s fun here. People matter. Talk to anyone, I’m positive they’ll say the same.

Greatest achievements

Being part of a small team of three to organise a professional cycle road race over 10 days across the UK which was televised on Channel 4. Presenting to local district councils and agreeing road safety. Booking street entertainment, hospitality, the Queens Guards parading through Holborn and the Red Devils flying over Portsmouth are just a few of the super fun projects I’ve been involved in which were exciting and rewardingly exhausting! In recent years, influencing a change in company values and the introduction of a leadership development programme supporting all levels of leaders from aspiring right up to our very own Chiefs. And then there’s my team of credible experts who’ve risen to the challenge over the past few years to really push the boundaries of personal development and are now equipped with many qualifications to work one to one or with teams offering bespoke team building or psychometric personality feedback. Lastly, raising a family as a single mum and moving through the ranks to Director Level. This went hand in hand with feelings of imposter syndrome and was also an achievement of which I am proud.

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Other insiders

Ali C

Top Insider Advice

Volunteering in Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Climate / Social Rights Groups can be an excellent way to get exposure to ESG and set yourself up for future career opportunities. Not only does it give you a chance to learn more about the issues at hand and the various approaches being taken to tackle them, but it also allows you to develop key skills such as leadership, project management, and communication - all of which are highly valued in the ESG space. By getting involved in ERGs and social groups, you can gain a deeper understanding of the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and how it intersects with ESG. You can also learn about the various ways in which companies are approaching sustainability, social responsibility, and governance, and gain valuable insights into how these approaches impact business performance and reputation. But perhaps most importantly, volunteering in ERGs and social groups is a great way to build connections and expand your network in the ESG space. By working alongside like-minded individuals who are passionate about creating a better world, you can forge relationships that may lead to future career opportunities or collaborations.

Angela W

Policy Review Specialist

Top Insider Advice

They often outweigh the negatives but get overlooked. Is a bad day really a bad day? Weigh it up and look for the positives. You’ll probably find it wasn’t so bad after all.

Chris B

Customer Claims Manager

Top Insider Advice

I really enjoy change delivery, developing ideas and simplifying processes in my role. ‘Find a role that supports your interests and develops your skills’, it provides longevity in the role, gives a sense of achievement and, overall, you’ll get enjoyment from the work you do.

Discussions with Maria S