Case studies : Learning and development specialist: Jayne

Jayne is a learning and development specialist at The University of Edinburgh. She has completed a degree in human resource management from the University of Strathclyde and has a CIPD qualification...

Prior to studying for my MSc, I had some previous experience in the roles of a call centre trainer, training supervisor, and then training manager. After graduating, I contacted a large number of recruitment consultants in Glasgow and Edinburgh, who put my CV forward for a mix of jobs in both human resources and learning and development.

Being able to draw on my previous work experience was very helpful in securing my current job. I was also able to draw on my MSc placement experience and my Masters dissertation research to effectively answer the questions in the interview. This qualification also provided further credibility to my work experience.

My role consists of a few key areas. Firstly, I assess the needs of a specific team or department who have requested development and determine the best way to deliver this training (it may require working with an external provider). I will then design the programme, thinking how best to achieve the learning objectives. Following this I will take on a facilitator role, leading the group through the designed programme and ensuring their needs are met. We will then complete an evaluation to check that we have achieved the original aims.

I have also been involved in projects, such as working on improving how we communicate our people management courses and developing two e-learning courses on the topics of annual review and recruitment, and selection and the law.

When I first worked as a call centre trainer my role consisted of delivering content that was designed by others. As I moved on in my career, I was able to get involved in needs assessment, programme development and project work. I enjoy these different areas and learn new things with every new project/programme. One day I hope to share these experiences with other learning and development professionals in a management position, getting involved in strategy and planning. 

The most enjoyable part of my job is interacting with people and being part of their development. Working with people in this way enables me to learn with them. I also enjoy working with staff to introduce management ideas which could improve their practice. The most challenging part of my role is time management, as it is important to effectively balance different requests, programmes or projects. 

In my experience, I worked in a business and understood that business before moving into a learning and development role. As a result I was a subject-matter expert who became a workplace trainer, which gave me confidence while I was developing my skills. Since then I have learned the theories and tools to be a better learning and development professional. This is just one example of a route into this career. I believe that the secret to my success is a love for learning, an awareness that I don't have all the answers, and a willingness to help others develop.