4510 Objective courses in Manchester delivered Online

PRINCE2® Practitioner : In-House Training Projects fail for a variety of reasons including poor planning, lack of defined quality criteria, poor understanding of the business drivers, inadequate control, and lack of senior management involvement in other words, lack of a structured best practice approach to project delivery. PRINCE2® (6th Edition is the current version) is a structured, process-based approach for project management providing a methodology which can be easily tailored and scaled to suit all types of projects. It is the de facto standard for project management in the UK Government and is also used extensively in more than 150 countries worldwide with in excess of 20,000 organizations already benefitting from its powerful approach. It can be used easily in combination with PMI®'s PMBOK® Guide to provide a robust project methodology, or to augment an existing PMBOK®-based methodology with additional rigor around areas such as Quality, Organization, and Benefits Realization. The goals of this course are to take participants to the next level of understanding and application of the PRINCE2® methodology and to prepare them to sit the Practitioner exam. Using APMG provided sample exam papers and additional project case studies, participants will learn how to apply what they learned during the Foundation course and how to approach the OTE Practitioner exam, which is aimed at testing their ability to apply PRINCE2® in an actual project environment simulated via a case study provided as part of the exam. What you will Learn You'll learn how to: Tailor and apply the principles, themes, process structure, techniques, and management products of PRINCE2® within a work environment, via carefully selected case studies Define the PRINCE2® 6th Edition method at the Practitioner level Prepare for and take the Practitioner exam Getting Started Introductions Course structure Course goals and objectives Tailoring PRINCE2® Tailoring PRINCE2® Adopting PRINCE2® Tailoring PRINCE2® to suit different projects Adopting PRINCE2® in an organizational environment Controlled Start Recap management products Study business case and risk Study activities and responsibilities in: Starting up a project Initiating a project Controlled Progress Study management products and risk Study activities and responsibilities in: Getting work done Monitoring and reporting Issues and escalation Controlled Close Study Activities and Responsibilities in Closing a Project Activities and roles Roles and Responsibilities Principles Exercise Product-basedPlanning Producing a product breakdown structure (PBS) Producing a product flow diagram (PFD) Linking product breakdown structures and product flow diagrams to product descriptions

Change Management Foundation: In-House Training: In-House Training This course provides practical knowledge on Change Management techniques and the Foundation certification. You will examine various Change Management techniques and explore which could be effectively implemented in your organization. The structured approach helps you understand how you deal with change as an individual, as a member of a team or organization, and as a leader. The program design explores the impact that change has on these four major areas: Change and the Individual Change and the Organization Communications and Stakeholder Engagement Change Management Practice This course also prepares you for the APMG Change Management Foundation exam. Given that a primary course goal is to achieve the Foundation Certification, the course text will be provided in advance of the workshop so the participant may begin studying. In addition, daily homework assignments and practice exams will be provided. The Foundation-level exam is taken at the end of the third day of the Traditional Classroom course. Virtual Classroom participants must make separate arrangements to schedule their exam following course completion (See 'Important Note for Virtual Course Participants'). What You Will Learn You'll learn how to: Explain how individuals learn and why many may resist change Illustrate how to build an effective change team Describe the stakeholder engagement process and relate this to appropriate communication Differentiate various approaches to plan, implement, and sustain organizational change Demonstrate how to assess change impact and readiness, and deal with resistance Improve your ability to pass the APMG Change Management Foundation Certification exam Getting Started Introductions Course structure Course goals and objectives Change and the Individual How people learn Personality and change - introduction to MBTI Models of individual change - the Change Curve and Bridges' Transition Motivating individuals during change Change and the Organization Understanding organizational metaphors Organizational culture and change 3 models of change - Lewin, Kotter, and Senge Key roles in change Stakeholder Engagement Identifying and analyzing stakeholders Personas and empathy maps Influencing strategies Communication Feedback and communication approaches Communicating change - planning, factors, and barriers Communication biases and channels Change Impact Identifying and assessing change impact Stakeholder impact assessment Change severity assessment Change Readiness Building change agent networks and the change team How to make the organization ready for change Creating a change management plan Dealing with resistance to change APMG Change Management Foundation Exam Preparation Review of and practice with APMG sample questions and test papers APMG Change Management Foundation Exam Traditional Classroom: Paper-based exams will be taken on the last day of class Virtual Classroom: The exam is scheduled by the Participant and taken subsequent to the course

Management of Risk (M_o_R®) Practitioner: In-House Training The M_o_R® Practitioner course has been designed to provide learners with the opportunity to practice the practical application of the M_o_R method and covers the twelve M_o_R principles: Approach, Process and the basic techniques essential to managing risks using the M_o_R guidance. The purpose of the M_o_R Practitioner qualification is to confirm that the learner has achieved sufficient understanding of how to apply and tailor M_o_R in a scenario situation. What you will Learn At the end of the M_o_R Practitioner course, learners will gain competencies in: M_o_R framework (principles, approach based on risk documentation, process steps, and embedding and reviewing M_o_R principles Outline of M_o_R approach documents (including policy, process guide, and risk communications plan) Risk identification, assessment, and control Embedding and reviewing M_o_R M_o_R organizational perspectives (strategic, program, project, operational) Benefits The M_o_R Practitioner course offers a wide-ranging set of guidelines that will help in the management of risk in a project or program environment. It will help prepare learners for the M_o_R Practitioner Exam. They will feel more confident in approaching risk management after attending the course and will be aware of the use of different techniques that can assist in this task, including: Improved basis for effective strategy formation Reduced time spent fire-fighting and fewer unwelcome surprises Increased likelihood of successful change initiative outcomes Closer internal focus on doing the right things properly Increase in efficient use of resources waste and fraud Better management of contingency resources M_o_R roles and responsibilities M_o_R health check M_o_R maturity model Risk specialisms (including business continuity management) Introduction Introduction to the course What is a risk? What is risk management? Why is risk management so important? Basic risk definitions The development of knowledge about risk management Corporate governance and internal control Where and when should risk management be applied? M_o_R Principles The purpose of M_o_R principles Aligns with objectives Fits the context Engages stakeholders Provides clear guidance Informs decision-making Facilitates continual improvement Creates a supportive culture Achieves measurable value Risk management maturity models M_o_R Approach Relationship between the documents Risk management policy Risk management process guide Risk management strategy Risk register Issue register Risk response plan Risk improvement plan Risk communications plan M_o_R Process Common process barriers Identify - contexts Identify - the risks Assess - estimate Assess - evaluate Plan Implement Communication throughout the process M_o_R Perspectives Strategic perspective Programme perspective Project perspective Operational perspective Risk Specialisms Business continuity management Incident and crisis management Health and Safety management Financial risk management Environmental risk management Reputational risk management Contract risk management

Better Business Cases™ Practitioner: In-House Training: In-House Training Better Business Cases™ is based on the Five Case Model - which is the UK government's best practice approach to structuring spending proposals and making effective business decisions. Using this best-practice approach will allow organizations to reduce unnecessary spending and improve the decision-making process which gives you a greater chance of securing necessary funding and support for initiatives. The goal of the practitioner course is to develop a candidate's ability to deliver a comprehensive business case, through encouraging expanded knowledge to guide the practical application of theoretical foundations. Upon the completion of this Practitioner course, a candidate will be able to start applying the model to a real business case development project. What You Will Learn At the end of this program, you will be able to: Develop the lifecycle of a business case and to establish the relationships between the five cases Apply the steps in the business case development framework, in order to support the production of a business case, using the Five Case Model, for a given scenario Overview of Better Business Cases Alignment with the strategic planning process Importance of the Business Case using the Five Case Model Overview of the Five Case Model Purpose of the key stages in the development of a spending proposal Purpose of a Business Justification Case Business Case Development Process Purpose of project / programme assurance and assurance reviews Responsibility for producing the Business Case Determining the Strategic Context and Undertaking the Strategic Assessment Scoping the Scheme and Preparing the Strategic Outline Case Planning the Scheme and Preparing the Outline Business Case Procuring the Solution and Preparing the Full Business Case Implementation and monitoring Evaluation and feedback Making the Case for Change Agree on the strategic context Determine spending objectives, existing arrangements, and business needs Determine potential business scope and key service requirements Determine benefits, risks, constraint, and dependencies Exploring the Preferred Way Forward Agree on critical success factors Determine long list options and SWOT analysis Recommend a preferred way forward Determining Potential Value for Money Revisit the short list Prepare the economic appraisal for short-listed options Undertake benefits appraisal Undertake risk appraisal Select preferred option and undertake sensitivity analysis Preparing for the Potential Deal Determine the procurement strategy Determine service streams and required outputs Outline potential risk apportionment Outline potential payment mechanisms Ascertain contractual issues and accountancy treatment Ascertaining Affordability and Funding Requirement Prepare the financial model Prepare the financial appraisals Planning for Successful Delivery Plan programme / project management Plan change and contract management Plan benefits realization Plan risk management Plan programme / project assurance and post project evaluation Procuring the Value for Money Solution Revisit the case for change Revisit the OBC options Detail procurement process and evaluation of best and final offers (BAFOs) Contracting for the Deal Set out the negotiated deal and contractual arrangements Set out the financial implications of the deal Ensuring Successful Delivery Finalize project management arrangements and plans Finalize change management arrangements and plans Finalize benefits realization arrangements and plans Finalize risk management arrangements and plans Finalize contract management arrangements and plans Finalize post-project evaluation arrangements and plans

PRINCE2® Foundation: In-House Training Projects fail for a variety of reasons including poor planning, lack of defined quality criteria, poor understanding of the business drivers, inadequate control, and lack of senior management involvement in other words, lack of a structured best practice approach to project delivery. PRINCE2® (6th Edition is the current version) is a structured, process-based approach to project management providing a methodology which can be easily tailored and scaled to suit all types of projects. It is the de facto standard for project management in the UK Government and is used extensively in more than 150 countries worldwide with in excess of 20,000 organizations already benefiting from its powerful approach. It can be used easily in combination with PMI®'s PMBOK® Guideto provide a robust project management methodology, or to augment an existing PMBOK®-based methodology with additional rigor around areas such as Quality, Organization, and Benefits Realization. The goals of this course are to provide participants with a thorough grounding in PRINCE2® and its benefits and to prepare them to sit the Foundation exam. What you will Learn You'll learn how to: Identify the benefits and principles underlying a structured approach to project management Define the PRINCE2® method in depth, including the principles, themes, and processes Prepare and practice for the Foundation exam Getting Started Introductions Course structure Course goals and objectives Overview of the PRINCE2® Foundation exam PRINCE2® Introduction Introducing PRINCE2® The structure of PRINCE2® What PRINCE2® does not provide What makes a project a 'PRINCE2® project'? Project Management with PRINCE2® Defining a project Managing a project Controlling the variables The Project Manager's work PRINCE2 Principles PRINCE2® Principles The Seven Principles Tailoring and Adopting PRINCE2® Defining tailoring Defining embedding What can be tailored? Who is responsible for tailoring? Introduction to the PRINCE2® Themes What is a PRINCE2® Theme? What are the PRINCE2® Themes? Tailoring the themes Format of the theme chapters Business Case Need for a business case Elements of a business case How a business case is developed Managing Benefits Organization Need for a special type of organization PRINCE2® organization structure Roles in a PRINCE2® project Combining roles Quality Relevance of quality to project work Quality, quality control, and quality assurance Quality management approach and the quality register Who is responsible for quality? Plans Need for plans and their hierarchy Approach to planning Content of a PRINCE2® plan Product-based planning Risk The need to manage risks What is a risk? Risk and continued business justification A risk management option Change Change is inevitable Different types of change Baselines and configuration management Issue and change control in PRINCE2® Progress Controlling a PRINCE2® project The application of tolerance Types of control Raising exceptions Introduction to Processes Processes and the project lifecycle The PRINCE2® journey Structure of the process chapters Tailoring the processes Starting up a Project Appointing people to the PRINCE2® roles Establishing some baselines Should we go further with this work? Planning for initiation Directing a Project Should we start / continue the project? Responding to internal / external influences Should we close this project? Initiating a Project Establishing the project's approaches Creating the project plan Refining the business case Assembling the PID Controlling a Stage Authorizing and reviewing work Monitoring and reporting Handling non-planned situations Triggering the next process Managing Product Delivery Accepting work from the Project Manager Getting the work done by the team Routine and non-routine reporting Handing back the completed work Managing a Stage Boundary Taking stock of what we have done Updating the PID Consider the options for continuing / stopping Producing exception plans Closing a Project PRINCE2® at the end of a project Transition of product to operational use How well did we do? Tying up all the loose ends

Management of Value (MoV®) Foundation This interactive MoV® Foundation course provides a modular and case-study-driven approach to learning Management of Value (MoV). The core knowledge is structured and comprehensive; and well-rounded modules cover the methodology and various techniques. A case study is used to help appreciate the relevance of MoV in its practical application. What you will Learn Upon completion of an MoV course candidates should be able to discuss and explain: The main processes and techniques used within MoV and the reasons for using them How MoV may be applied at portfolio, program, project and operational levels The differences in applying MoV at different stages in a project and the expected outputs from a MoV Study at each stage The circumstances under which MoV should be used The concept of value and how value may be improved The main benefits arising from the use of MoV Approaches for implementing MoV How to respond to external and internal influences The principles of embedding MoV into an organization The key topics in document checklists, the toolbox, health check, organizational maturity and individual competence. Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to: Organize and contribute constructively to a Management of Value (MoV) Study Demonstrate a knowledge of MoV principles, processes, approach and environment Analyse a company, program or project to establish its organizational value; includes identification and weighting of Value Drivers Pass the AXELOS MoV Foundation Examination Introduction to value management and MoV Value and Value Management Capabilities, Outcomes, Benefits and Disbenefits What is Value? What is Management of Value (MoV)? Why use MoV? Where use MoV? When MoV should be used? What using MoV involve? Selected MoV benefits Relationship with other AXELOS Global Best Practices and Models How MoV fits with other AXELOS Global Best Practice Guides MoV principles Align with organization's objectives Focus on functions and required outcomes Balance the variables to maximise value Apply throughout the investment decision Tailor MoV to suit the subject Learn from experience and improve Assign clear roles and responsibilities and build a supportive culture MoV processes Frame the programme or project Gather information Analyse information Process information Evaluate and select Develop Value Improving Proposals Implement and share outputs MoV techniques Function Analysis Function Analysis System Technique (FAST) Traditional (or classic) FAST Technical FAST Customer FAST Value Trees Measuring value Value profiling (a.k.a. value benchmarking) Simple multi-attribute rating technique (a.k.a. SMART) Value index Value metrics Value for money (VfM) ratio Value Engineering / Analysis Common techniques used in MoV Analysis of information Benchmarking Process Mapping Root Cause Analysis Discounted Cash Flow Analysis Generating Ideas Brainstorming Evaluation and option selection Option Selection Matrix Idea selection Allocation to Categories Idea Selection Matrix Weighting techniques Paired Comparisons Points Distribution Developing VIPs Developing Proposals Cost Benefit Analysis Building Decisions Implementing VIPs Implementation Plans Feedback Following up Tracking Benefits Approach to Implementation Generic approach to MoV implementation Plan the MoV activities Understand and articulate value Prioritize value Improve value Quantify value Monitor improvements in value Learn lessons Environmental factors Portfolio Considerations Programme considerations Project considerations Operational Considerations Embedding MoV into an organization Benefits of Embedding MoV into an organization MoV Policy MoV Policy Composition Embedding MoV into an organisation Key steps Suggested MoV Management Structure Overcoming barriers We do it anyway It takes up too much time We can't afford to make the changes What's in it for me? Don't fix it if it ain't broke Fixed returns on investment MoV products Briefing Meeting Agenda (A.1) Communications Checklist (A.2) Equipment list for an Effective Study/Workshop (A.3) Invitation to join the Study Team (A.4) Option Evaluation Matrix (A.5) Plan the Study (A.6) Recording Idea Selection (A.7) Reporting Study outputs (A.8) Scoping the Study (A.9) Study or Workshop Handbook (A.10) Value-Improvement Proposal Forms (A.11) Value Improvement Tracking Report (A.12) MoV toolbox MoV health check and maturity model P3M3 Maturity Model MoV Maturity Model (aligned with P3M3)

DASA DevOps Professional: Enable and Scale: In-House Training DevOps embodies both cultural changes and practices through which organizations can facilitate the IT functions of software development (Dev) and software operation (Ops). The DevOps movement advocates automation and phase-based monitoring practices. Its objectives include: Decreasing development cycles · Increasing deployment frequency Improving the reliability of releases Developing a closer alignment with business objectives The DASA DevOps Professional: Enable and Scale course (formerly known as DevOps Practitioner) is designed to provide individuals with the core education necessary to put DevOps into practice. With the help of DevOps theory, pragmatic examples and exercises, and interactive group discussions, the course will help you understand how to apply the necessary skills to practice DevOps. Building on the knowledge learned on theFundamentals course (the 'why'), you will learn the 'how'. The DevOps Professional: Enable and Scale course focuses on improving the skill set of the DASA competency model, which includes competencies like Courage, Teambuilding, DevOps Leadership, and Continuous Improvement. On completion of the DASA DevOps Professional: Enable and Scale training and passing the exam, the certification is awarded. What you will Learn At the end of this program, you will be able to: Explain the importance of DevOps culture and the aspects that can influence it Explain why courage, teambuilding, leadership, and continuous improvement are required in a DevOps environment Explain why courage is essential to enable trust, honesty, and experimentation Identify and evaluate different types of behavior in a DevOps environment Recognize the signals indicating impediments and/or team dysfunctions Describe how to form good DevOps teams and assess their maturity List the effects of happiness and motivation on team performance Identify how leaders encourage feedback and transparency Discuss the factors that leaders can influence to build trust Explain how and why leaders promote a 'safe to fail' environment Analyze value streams to improve throughput and flow Facilitate the tools for continuous improvement: structured problem-solving workshops, Story Mapping sessions, and retrospectives TEAMBUILDING Teambuilding is about understanding the other's point of view, collaboration, mutual accountability, common purpose, and the ability to integrally support the service/product. Design Teams Characteristics of a DevOps team Skills of a DevOps Team Self-organization and autonomy Rules to consider when designing DevOps teams Build Teams Effects of happiness and motivation on performance Feedback Creating high-performance teams Governance Governance within teams and between multiple teams Governance between organizations DevOps contracts DEVOPS LEADERSHIP This module describes how to facilitate teams to high performance, DevOps behavior, transparency, and a service lifecycle mindset. Build Culture Creating the right environment and providing vision and purpose Stimulating the right behavior Servant leadership: giving control, supporting, and inspiring Create Purpose Defining and aligning purpose Purpose of having a purpose Alignment versus autonomy Be a Servant Leader Give control to the team Inspire and support the team Focus on Success Output versus outcome Measuring and steering COURAGE The Courage module is about coaching courageous behavior, proactivity, reflection, trust, open discussions, experimentation, fail fast, and the courage to change. Build Courage The importance of courage Courage in relationship with leadership and feedback Enabling courage at the team level Dealing with failure Think Different Courage day to day Encourage critical thinking Techniques to promote courageous behavior VALUE CUSTOMER-CENTRIC ACTION This module describes the important aspects that are relevant to identify and deliver the required and expected value for all relevant stakeholders. Aspects of Value and Managing Expectations The different aspects of value Stakeholder management Customer collaboration and using customer feedback How to do prioritization CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT Continuous improvement describes the importance of a Kaizen mindset, quality at the source, first time right, knowledge-sharing, and the ability to adapt. Build Flow Understanding the importance of flow Using Lean to optimize flow Kaizen as a mindset Radical change versus Kaizen Using Pull to optimize flow Continuous Improvement Tools Kaizen Event Value Stream Mapping Visual Management Retrospective Daily Standup Five Times Why

We communicate daily in many ways, including email, phone, text, Zoom, Teams, Google Meets, Slack, and even that old-fashioned thing, what was it now... oh yes, talking face-to-face. But, when we look at communication closely and really drill down into what we are doing in conjunction with how our brain works (neuroscience), how internal, organisational, and social politics control what we believe we can say, how hierarchical positioning impacts our honesty and how the lack of psychological safety means we say what we know others want to hear rather than what they need to hear…. It is oh so complicated! This workshop not only explores the concept of excellent communication, but we also want to hear what you believe it is too. We also delve into how organisational culture influences our perception of speaking up. Factors that hinder open and honest communication, and we work collaboratively towards removing these barriers to achieve a communication style that fosters trust and transparency, creating psychological safety. This workshop is particularly relevant to our Emotional Intelligence workshop (EI and Me). We firmly believe that developing emotional intelligence is the key to unlocking Clean Communication, a skill that is crucial for all of us, regardless of our roles and responsibilities, so that we thrive in our professional environment. If you want to see if we are correct, why not have us facilitate a workshop for you and see what you get by the end of it?  LENGTH - Normally, one day. But please contact us to discuss your specific needs, or we can offer advice. NEXT WORKSHOP START - Please ask for more information as we deliver bespoke closed events for your people at your location or a mutually suitable location. WORKSHOP DELIVERY - The best environment for this workshop is face-to-face, but we can facilitate this workshop online. Suitability - Who should attend? Who Should Attend and Why? Who? - Perhaps think of this another way… who shouldn’t attend to ensure we can attain Clean Communication? There’s your answer. Why? - Every person needs to understand what we are saying above about how we get trapped in this organisational formatting which changes how we communicate and how it prevents us from communicating cleanly. EVERY organisation has this, despite what our values profess. And 'Values', that’s a whole other story. Workshop Content Using the 'Moccasin Approach'® to clean our personal and organisational communication LaPD’s Communication Cycle and what we must consider. (Can you work out what the ? represent above? Accountability and Responsibility raises its head in Communication. It has to. Bias, unconscious bias and its impacts on our communication. The conundrum of communicating with others and their styles (The TRAP). How would my perfect Manager/Leader communicate with me? Nonverbal communication (body language), rapport, Clean Communication. Negative communication can go viral (Self-Fulfilling Prophecy). Reflections, findings and goals (individual and team). Meeting our workshop objectives by listing five areas for development. Workshop delivery and venue This workshop is usually one day in duration, and it focuses solely on how we communicate with each other. It can also be a two-day event incorporating aspects of Emotional Intelligence (EI) with group, and individual activities to allow discussions about the various communication we need in your organisation. When you consider the content we deliver, we are sure you will understand why we always prefer to deliver our workshops, courses and programmes face-to-face. Face-to-face workshops and courses can be held at a location of your choice or, if you wish, a central UK location, such as the Macdonald Burlington Hotel in Birmingham, located directly across from the Birmingham New Street train station. We can deliver our workshops, courses and programmes online, although this will mean splitting elements into manageable learning events to suit the online environment.

Duration 2 Days 12 CPD hours This course is intended for The target audience for the CASM course is Anyone interested in learning about Agile and Scrum from a products and process perspective Process owners and process designers Developers who are interested in helping make processes more agile Managers who are looking to bridge multiple practices into a DevOps environment Employees and managers responsible for designing, re-engineering or improving process Consultants guiding their clients through process improvement and DevOps initiatives Internal and external suppliers Process stakeholders Overview The learning objectives for Certified Agile Service Manager (CASM) include an understanding of: What does it mean to 'be agile?' The Agile Manifesto, its core values, and principles Agile concepts and practices including ITSM, Kanban, Lean and DevOps Learn about SCRUM from a product and process perspective Agile thinking and values into service management Scrum roles, artifacts, and events as it applies to both products and processes The two aspects of Agile Service Management: Agile Process Improvement-ensuring processes are lean and deliver 'just enough' control Agile Process Design-applying Agile practices to process design projects This course provides an introduction to Agile Service Management, the application, and integration of agile thinking into service management processes and process design projects. Agile thinking improves IT?s effectiveness and efficiency and enables IT to continue to deliver value in the face of changing requirements. This course prepares you for the Certified Agile Service Manager (CASM) certification. Why Agile Service Management? Challenges Today What is IT Service Management? What is Agile? Agile Manifesto and Principles What Does It Take To Be Agile? Agile Service Management What is Agile Service Management? Agile Service Management Goals, Objectives and Benefits Two Aspects: Agile Process Engineering & Agile Process Improvement Leveraging Related Guidance DevOps ITIL Site Reliability Engineering Lean Scrum Agile Service Management Roles Relationship to Scrum roles Agile Practice Owner Agile Service Management Team Agile Service Manager Agile Process Engineering Agile Processes How Processes Deliver Value Waterfall vs Agile Process Engineering Relationship to Scrum Events & Artifacts Minimum Viable Process Microprocess Architectures Service Management Architecture Agile Service Management Artifacts Practice Backlog Spring Backlog Increment Agile Service Management Events Planning The Sprint Sprint Planning Process Standups Sprint Review Sprint Retrospective Agile Process Improvement Why Process Improvement is Important Process Improvement Goals Process Improvement Reviews Sustaining Improvements Automation

Elite EA/PA Forum We are delighted to announce the Elite EA/PA Forum for the UK & Ireland will be on the 30th of October 2025. Our workshop aims to: Enhance your influence and impact by mastering assertive communication, negotiation, and self-advocacy skills. Stay composed and solution-focused in high-pressure situations with practical tools for crisis management and clear decision-making. Embrace evolving technology by understanding how AI and automation can streamline your role and boost efficiency. Future-proof your career by building strategic value, resilience, and adaptability in an ever-changing professional landscape. Keynote Address with Q&A from the audience: What to expect from Sam's Keynote: With over 30 years supporting leaders at the highest levels, Sam Cohen brings a wealth of insight, experience, and stories (the kind she can share) to the stage. From 18 years serving within The Royal Household - including as Deputy Private Secretary and Press Secretary to Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II - to working with The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, running the Prime Minister’s Office at Downing Street, and serving as Chief of Staff to the global CEO of Rio Tinto, Sam’s career is a masterclass in discretion, diplomacy, and delivering at the top. In this exclusive keynote, Beyond the Role, Sam will explore how Executive Assistants don’t just support leaders - they shape leadership, drive strategy, and build legacy from behind the scenes. Join us for this rare opportunity to hear from someone who’s been at the epicentre of power - and bring your questions! The keynote will include a live Q&A, where you can ask Sam about her remarkable career, leadership insights, and how to truly excel in high-performance environments. (Don’t ask her what the Queen kept in her handbag - she’s not telling.) Sam Cohen Career Bio: Sam Cohen has spent the last 30 years working to support leaders in the public and private sectors. Sam spent 18 years serving The Royal Household, as Deputy Private Secretary to Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and Press Secretary to The Queen. Sam also served as Private Secretary to The Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Following this time, Sam worked as Director of the Prime Minister’s Office at Downing Street under Boris Johnson and, most recently, was Chief of Staff to the global CEO at Rio Tinto. Source: ABC News - YouTube Channel. Facilitator - AM: Monika Turner The Confident Assistant - Speak Up, Go After What You Want & Create The Future You Deserve: Develop practical strategies to negotiate workload, boundaries, and career growth with confidence. Learn assertive communication techniques to handle challenging conversations effectively. Build self-advocacy skills to articulate your value and influence outcomes in the workplace. Monika Turner Career Bio: Monika Anna Turner is an ICF-certified Leadership and Executive coach with over seven years of experience helping professionals unlock their confidence, elevate their voice, and lead with authenticity. Before stepping into coaching, she built a successful career as a Personal Assistant, Executive Assistant, and ultimately Chief Of Staff —giving her a deep understanding of the unique challenges and strengths of support roles. Originally from Poland, Monika knows firsthand what it’s like to question your voice and your value—especially in a second language. Her journey from self-doubt to self-assurance informs everything she does today. Through her coaching, she empowers assistants and leaders alike to move beyond fear, speak up and create fulfilling careers they’re proud of. Panel Fabiana Goncalves Executive Assistant to Global VP PerfectDraft & PerfectDraft Commercial Director An accomplished C-Suite Executive & Personal Assistant, I bring over a decade of experience supporting top-level leadership—including CEOs, Founders, and Executive Teams—across multinational and national organizations. I specialize in executive support that goes far beyond calendar management, contributing as a strategic partner in decision-making, operations, and leadership effectiveness. Known for my discretion, diplomacy, and operational precision, I help executives stay focused on what matters most—by anticipating needs, managing complexity, and driving efficiency in both corporate and personal domains. I bring a strategic lens to every task, balancing immediate priorities with long-term objectives. With a proactive mindset, sharp judgment, and strong communication skills, I serve as a trusted advisor and problem-solver in fast-paced, high-stakes environments. Rebecca Polson Executive Support Manager to the Chief Executive An award-winning Executive Assistant with over 10 years’ experience across the higher education, charity, private, and public sectors. Currently Executive Support Manager to the Chief Executive at Alzheimer’s Research UK, she provides high-level support in the fast-paced, mission-driven environment of the largest dementia research charity in the UK. Her previous roles include supporting senior leaders at the Natural History Museum, the Incorporated Society of Musicians, and the Royal College of Music. She brings expertise in executive support, governance, stakeholder engagement, and complex diary and project management. Named PA of the Year in 2023 and a finalist in the SecsintheCity PA of the Year Awards, she is known for her professionalism, discretion, and ability to stay ahead of the needs of the people and organisations she supports. Ola Boddington Senior Executive Assistant As a seasoned Executive Assistant, she has honed her skills in management and project planning over the years. She has worked with various organisations, including Zoa, Signal AI, and ConsenSys, where she provided high-level administrative support to senior executives. Her expertise lies in managing complex schedules, coordinating travel arrangements, and ensuring seamless communication among team members. She is also proficient in using various software tools to streamline workflows and enhance productivity. She is passionate about delivering exceptional service and contributing to the success of the teams she works with. Claudine Martin Senior Executive Assistant Claudine is a highly skilled Senior Executive Assistant, currently supporting the Head of BNY Pershing EMEA. With a distinguished career spanning nearly 17 years in the British Army, Claudine retired in 2023 at the rank of Staff Sergeant, bringing a wealth of experience in high-pressure environments and strategic operations to her current role. Throughout her military career, Claudine specialised in Human Resources, and served as the Personal Assistant to the Army Director of Engagement and Communication at the Ministry of Defence. In this capacity, she played a pivotal role in the planning and execution of significant events and initiatives, showcasing her exceptional organisational skills and attention to detail. Her dedication and professionalism were recognised when she was awarded PA of the Year in 2019 by PA Life. An advocate for the Executive Assistant profession, Claudine is also a sought-after public speaker. She regularly shares her insights at industry events, including the PA Show, and serves as an advisory board member, contributing to the ongoing development and recognition of the profession. Claudine is passionate about empowering others and has previously mentored young people through the Diana Award, a programme established in honour of Princess Diana to support disadvantaged youth. Additionally, she has participated in Fast Forward 15, a mentoring initiative aimed at women aspiring to build careers in events, hospitality, or related industries. With her extensive experience, dedication to excellence, and commitment to mentorship, Claudine continues to make a significant impact in her field and inspire the next generation of leaders. She proudly represented the UK at the Invictus Games 2023, showcasing her unwavering determination and unwavering spirit. In her spare time, Claudine enjoys park run and writing poems. The Importance of Becoming a Strategic Advisor Learn how to shift from reactive to proactive. Develop the mindset and behaviours of a strategic advisor. Understand how to add value beyond your job description. Facilitator - PM: Justin Kabbani AI Is Not Here to Replace You. It's Here to Upgrade You. We'll explore Justin's proven 3P framework: Priming – How to set up AI like a strategic advisor by feeding it context, tone and mindset Prompting – How to craft clear, structured instructions to get consistently great results Producing – How to turn AI outputs into high-leverage work that makes you stand out Your session outcomes: Real examples from admin professionals already using AI to elevate their work Prompts you can copy, adapt, and test live Interactive exercises to build confidence fast A practical challenge to implement right after the session If you’ve been overwhelmed by AI, or underwhelmed by its impact, this session will change that. You'll leave with tools you can use today, and a mindset you’ll carry forward for the rest of your career. Justin Kabbani Career Bio: Justin Kabbani is one of Australia’s most in-demand AI trainers and keynote speakers, known for making AI feel simple, powerful, and immediately useful. He’s worked with brands like Uber, Treasury Wine Estates, and Udemy, helping their teams embed AI into daily workflows, strategic planning, and executive communication. Over the past two years, Justin has trained more than 2,000 professionals across Australia and beyond, consistently earning feedback like “mind-blowing,” and “game-changing”. His signature Prime, Prompt, Produce framework has transformed how business leaders, executive assistants, marketers, and teams think, work, and communicate with AI, without needing to be “tech people.” Justin believes AI isn’t here to replace people. It’s here to take the robotic work off our plate, so we can focus on what humans do best. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinkabbani/ Website: https://justinkabbani.com/ Speed Connections Networking Session Join us for Speed Connections, a lively 30-minute networking session designed to foster meaningful connections in a fun, fast-paced environment. Every 10 minutes, attendees will be placed into new breakout rooms with small groups, giving everyone the chance to meet a diverse range of peers. Each breakout session will feature engaging prompts to spark conversations and make networking enjoyable and memorable! Who will attend this event? Executive Assistant (EA) Personal Assistant (PA) Virtual Assistant (VA) Legal Secretary Legal Executive Assistant Administrative Assistant Office Manager Health Care Office Manager Chief of Staff Additional roles may be relevant depending on role responsibilities along with development opportunities. This workshop is open to females, male including trans women/males and non-binary professionals. Group Rate Discounts To discuss our group rates in more detail, please email support@elite-forums.com and provide the following: Group Number (How many would like to attend) Event Date (If numerous dates, please advise if we are splitting attendees across multiple dates) Attendee Contact details (Or request our Group Rate Document. Complete and return - we'll sort the rest.) Group discounts are on request - see below group rate discount brackets: 🧩 You just need one piece to come together - to unlock your Elite Potential. 🔑 Media outlets/organisations will not be permitted to attend this event.