We are thrilled to welcome Lauren Peacock to the team as a Learning and Development (L&D) Business Partner. Lauren’s arrival comes as the IEP undergoes rapid expansion in Australia, and she brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience, having transitioned from the community services sector to the employability sector in 2017.
We chatted with Lauren about her role, journey, and her love of learning and books.
What is your role?
Technically Learning and Development Business Partner. However, the IEP is growing so rapidly in Australia that I am definitely rolling up my sleeves and getting stuck into anything that needs to be done.
What will you be doing in your role?
Initially, I have been re-writing the IEP Induction content for the Australian context. Longer term, I will be supporting our Australian members to adopt all the wonderful learning opportunities IEP offers.
Tell us about your background, and the skills and experience you bring to the IEP.
I originally worked in the community services sector as a caseworker and trainer. However, in 2017 I transitioned across to the employability sector and have been working in the industry in some shape or form since. In my operational roles I still found myself designing and delivering training which led to my promotion as Head of L&D for a national employment services provider here in Australia in 2021. I met Scott for the first time in that role and immediately knew I wanted to get involved. IEP was such a dynamic organisation, and I was so excited to see the energy and passion IEP were delivering with regards to professionalising the industry.
What are your professional passions (sector-related)?
I have a special passion for job coaching that is informed by an understanding of change theory and behavioural psychology. I am currently writing a non-fiction book called ‘The Power of Progress’, which is a really practical guide to the interventions practitioners can use to help participants progress effectively along their work journey. I believe this industry must professionalise if we are going to survive the changing political and economic landscape and I am thrilled to be part of that sector journey as the L&D Business Partner for IEP.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
I love to read both fiction and non-fiction and typically read a few books a week. I am currently reading an awesome sci-fi epic called the Empire of Silence which is the origin story of one of humanities great heroes (who is also a monster who murdered another species). It’s really complex and multi-faceted and I am loving it. I am very passionate about learning and my final goal is to complete a PhD – it’s a long road when you work and have a family, but I am committed to it.
This year I have been on a massive health journey. I lost 35 kilos since January and started working out, doing yoga and meditating. It’s been incredible to get to know my body in a way I never have before – I think I viewed by body as a machine that transported my brain around. This year has given me the gift of recognising how vital my body is, and how grateful I am to have one.
