Carolyn Whiteside
Have a read through some of our news stories to learn about the great work that goes on and that you would have the opportunity to contribute to.
Describe your typical working day?
Within the HRD team every day is different, which is part of the reason why I enjoy the role so much! On a training delivery day, the day typically begins with a check on the room and equipment to ensure everything is ready to go. Once happy, I will grab the essential cup of tea before welcoming attendees into the session and getting started. As well as delivering bespoke training for our business units, I am involved with delivering Induction and training for our in-house programmes which are tailored for Line Mangers, Supervisors, Project Managers and Project Co-ordinators. Many of our training sessions run to lunch or shortly afterwards so when I return to my desk in the afternoon, the first port of call is to check in on e-mails and sign off on any training records in our Learning Management System. Often there may be meetings set up whether it’s our own team meetings to plan upcoming training or meetings with the business to discuss development needs and priorities. Non training days will involve the development of training materials, organising external training providers or the creation of interactive e-learning materials.
Do you think your job makes a real different?
Absolutely, the role of an HRD Business partner allows us to support individuals and the wider business to develop and enhance skill sets which impacts performance in the job role.
What type of exciting projects have you worked on?
Cert Programme Launch e-learning
My job allows me to work on a variety of projects. Currently we are introducing more blended learning into the business to appeal to our wide audience. Last year I was involved in creating an e-learning to officially launch our internal training programmes. To enhance what we previously offered, we introduced a variety of media into the module. This included videos and podcasts from various managers across the business. It’s not unusual to see a member of the training team walking about with video equipment and microphones these days!
What advice would you give someone considering applying for a job with Almac?
I would say go for it! You will be joining a growing business who every day are working to advance human health. Have a read through some of our news stories to learn about the great work that goes on and that you would have the opportunity to contribute to. It’s a reason to get out of bed in the morning! And of course I look forward to welcoming you on your first day in induction.
Outline your career to date within Almac
I started working for Almac in 2006 in the role of a Training Co-ordinator. As a training co-ordinator I was involved the organisation and set up of all internal training courses. I would have liaised with external providers as well as organising internal courses. During this role I would have helped organise our Lunchtime Lecture programme, designed the Almanac our company newsletter and helped co-ordinate the annual corporate briefings. Whilst in the role I had the opportunity to apply for an Acting position as an HRD Business Partner to cover a maternity leave. This gave me the experience I needed to allow me to apply for the permanent role of HRD Business Partner which I have been in since 2008.
