Guest Feature: Kay Stephan - Learning and Development Specialist
As a UK-based learning and development specialist, I am delighted to share the successful and impactful partnership I have cultivated with the GTA University Centre and the wonderful businesses and people of Guernsey. My expertise lies in supporting first-time managers, team leaders, and middle managers/leaders. I work with individuals from various organisations at all stages of their careers, helping them become the best managers they can be, which in turn fosters happy teams that deliver exceptional results.
Our collaboration has been dynamic and innovative. Recognising the needs of Guernsey businesses, we developed the First Time Managers Course around 15 years ago, which now runs three times a year. With approximately 540 participants to date, this course is a fun, participative, and practical day that equips individuals with the skills and confidence to step into team leader roles. I am incredibly proud of this achievement because team leading is a complex and challenging role, acting as the critical interface between senior management and operational delivery. Why leave such a crucial aspect to chance?
In addition to the First Time Manager course, we created a sister program, Manage Like a Leader, which delves deeper into the nuances of team leadership and adds significant value to participants' skill sets. Our partnership has also resulted in a variety of bespoke in-house courses, one-to-one coaching sessions, and virtual learning opportunities. At the onset of the pandemic, we swiftly developed a series of practical virtual learning courses to support managers navigating through challenging times. The GTA's rapid response to meet the evolving needs of Guernsey businesses was truly impressive.
What truly makes our relationship with the GTA successful is their commitment to teamwork. They consistently provide their tutors and clients with the highest level of service, creating an environment where collaboration and innovation thrive. This spirit of partnership has been instrumental in our ongoing success, and I look forward to continuing our journey of growth and excellence together.