Meet our new Workforce Development Manager, Ashley!
Ashley completed her A Levels and progressed to University to study for a degree in nursing. After graduating, she quickly realised that nursing was not the right path for her and got a job working within Learning and Development as an Internal Trainer.
Ashley has worked within Learning and Development for twenty years and has worked for large organisations such as DHL and Yodel. She is also a qualified teacher and an advocate for personal development having completed her teacher training qualification and another degree in Leadership and Management, all whilst working full time.
Ashley said: “I’m really looking forward to getting started in my new role at Middlesbrough College! So far, I’ve enjoyed learning about the College and finding out more about the College’s digital strategy, it’s interesting to see how I can support the strategic developments of the College.
“Me and my team are the driving force behind the College’s skills and knowledge and my role is to see how we can develop these professional skills for the future. I absolutely love working within learning and development as I enjoy helping and supporting my colleagues on their learning journey. It is fantastic to take things that employees want to do for their development and make it a reality.
“My favourite aspect of my role has to be the job satisfaction that comes with it- it’s amazing seeing the potential in somebody and helping them to realise it. I see my role as a bridge builder, allowing people to gain the skills and knowledge to the career that they want and deserve.”
A recruiter approached Ashley when the role became available at Middlesbrough College and Ashley jumped at the opportunity to join this dynamic and growing organisation. She said: “After I applied for the job at the College I just knew that it was the perfect role for me. It was strange as everything felt so right throughout the recruitment process; I just knew that this was the place for me. There was never a moment of doubt and I’m excited to have joined an organisation that is constantly developing and growing.
“I’ve worked for a range of organisations but education is something I’m particularly passionate about. A career highlight for me was writing and developing my own Level 2 apprenticeship in Customer Service and Logistics. It is still surreal for me that students can enrol onto the 12-month programme!
“For me it is alien to not be developing and studying and I’m a big believer in leading by example. I’m a hands-on individual who works best when I’m immersed in a project! I’m really looking forward to building and embedding workforce development into everything we do here at Middlesbrough College.
“Outside of the office I’m a very family orientated individual and my spare time is often filled doing various activities with my six- year old daughter and husband. You’ll find me at dance classes, football matches and walking the dog! My daughter was incredibly excited to find out all about the Middlesbrough College Theatre (especially the pantomime) and GymWorld, so no doubt you’ll see me there too!”