GLP Training is delighted to introduce our newest tutor, Paul Abbott, who will be guiding and motivating participants in the Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability Practitioner programme. With a wealth of experience in the industry, Paul has been actively involved in sustainability since 2000 and has been teaching CSR practices since 2011 at the University of Leeds.
We had the privilege of learning more about Paul recently, and perhaps this insight will help you decide if the Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Practitioner programme aligns with your goals and interests.
A Chat with Paul - Our new CSR Tutor
Q1: Can you tell us about your journey and how you became involved in Sustainability education?
I started my professional career as a trainer working in the early days of the youth training scheme. I then graduated into trainer training before starting my own consultancy firm specialising in training and management development. I worked closely with government depaartments, institutes of higher education and awarding bodies - mainly on competence-based approaches to learning and assessment. I became interested in sustainability around the turn of the century and studied for a master's degree in sustainability at the University of Leeds. I joined the same institution as a lecturer in CSR and Sustainability in 2011 and now as a part time senior lecturer, I lead a master’s programme in sustainability and consultancy.
Q2: What key changes or developments have you introduced or witnessed in sustainability education?
The masters programme I have developed and manage is unique in that it focuses on placing students in the real world, with real businesses. On these extended placements they conduct a major consultancy assignment for that host organisation that addressed a tangible sustainability issue and delivers quantifiable benefits and outcomes.
Q3: How do you see the field of CSR evolving, and what skills do you believe will be most important for future professionals?
CSR will continue to evolve and become more inclusive in considering the needs of all those with a stake in the planet and its people. Business organisations will increasingly consider the environment and communities within which they operate as key stakeholders. The CSR function will become mainstream and be integrated into normal business practice.
Q4: What advice would you give to someone interested in pursuing a career in CSR and sustainability?
I would say – do it! From my lengthy experience in the word of business, training, and sustainability I can see clearly that the demand for sustainability skills and expertise far outstrip the supply. By pursuing a career in this field, you will be part of an expanding army of people whose mission it is to make the world a better place for future generations.
Q5: What would you say is your style of teaching?
My style of teaching is facilitative. I believe that learning occurs when people do things and then learn from that experience. It is important to understand historical and current thinking that has led us to the current position in understanding the challenges faced by business and humanity in general. But it's only by doing different things and things differently that we can really learn about ourselves and the world around us.
We are delighted to have Paul on the GLP Training team as our new CSR tutor; his expertise will contribute to the high quality training that we provide for our learners.
Don't miss the opportunity to apply for the Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Practitioner apprenticeship now and enhance your skills!
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