How did you first get started in CPD?

I attended the annual CIPD Conference in Harrogate in October 2006 and met with a membership advisor who was able to assess on the spot whether I would be eligible to upgrade my membership to Chartered Membership. After reviewing my CV he advised that I had sufficient evidence and experience and requested that I complete an application form.

How do you make sure you reflect on your learning?

I continually seek to find methods of enhancing and developing my skills and experience on both a personal and professional basis. I believe that reflecting upon learning is an important way of doing this. Some of the methods that I use to complete this process include:
• Performance Appraisals: Clear identification of areas of weakness and formulation of methods for improvement. Outline of steps for learning development.
• Regular Self Assessment e.g. problem solving/ handling of a complex situation, review events and use as a learning opportunity.
• Regular feedback from Line Management

How have you and other benefited from your learning?

A number of different people have benefited from my learning; some of these include peers, colleagues, line management and friends. Keeping abreast of new employment legislation and fresh methods of working has not only benefited myself but has enabled me to better anticipate HR’s needs and offer solutions which are realistic within the local business context.

What have been the tangible outcomes of your CPD?

I started my career in Human Resources as a HR Assistant and I have now progressed to a position in which I hold HR responsibility for a UK site of approximately 135 staff. On a regular basis I am the only HR personnel present at the site. As part of my role I am required to provide a pro-active support service on both operational and change management issues, it is therefore paramount for me to make quick and effective decisions or to provide appropriate HR advice when requested to by management to ensure that manufacturing operations run as smoothly as possible. I believe that continued reflection upon my learning and seeking to identify methods of improving my current skills and knowledge has given me the confidence and skills to further my career within Human Resources and successfully undertake the duties and responsibility that encompass my present position.

What are your CPD plans for the coming year?

Within the remit of my current position I would like to establish a clear link between HR and business related activity with the ultimate aim of providing a more strategic HR service to site management. The benefit of this being closer alignment of HR strategy to business operating needs. I aim to improve upon this by being a regular participator at the monthly site senior management meetings and by completing regular reviews with the site manager.