Celebrating our PDP Participants
18 July 2025
Business comes down to two things: people and process. To succeed, we need to keep developing our people and improving our processes. PDP plays a big role in that.
We recently marked the conclusion of our 5th Professional Development Programme (PDP5), with 14 participants showcasing their year-long journey of growth, learning and impact to our Executive and SBU Leadership teams. Throughout the programme, they brought energy, passion, and purpose to every step of the programme.
PDP is our flagship development programme – combining hands-on learning, mentoring, and group sessions to help empower individuals to shape their career path.
Here’s what some of the group had to say about their experience:
"My PDP year has been one of the most rewarding of my career. Through the program content, facilitators, my mentor, and fellow participants I was challenged to stretch myself beyond my comfort zone to grow both personally and professionally." – Kevin, Digital Marketing Manager
"Professionally, PDP pushed me beyond task management into true leadership. I learned to speak up, not just when I had answers, but when I had questions. I had to look at my own habits, stories, and assumptions and ask, “What’s helping me grow, and what’s holding me back?” Kelli, US Customer Experience Manager
“I applied to PDP because I wanted to grow my influence within the business. I knew I had valuable technical skills and experience, but I felt there was more I could contribute, particularly when it came to shaping strategy. It’s helped me shift from being seen as a technical contributor to becoming a more strategic partner.” Jacob, Principal Scientist
“Both personally and professionally the programme has made me less afraid to fully embrace change. After all, nothing changes if nothing changes! The programme has helped me establish how I want my current role to develop and to consider my future career aspirations.” Teresa, HR Business Partner & Global Data Analytics Lead
Commenting on the closing event and the year-long journey our PDP5 participants have been on, Jos Sclater, CEO said: “Business comes down to two things: people and process. To succeed, we need to keep developing our people and improving our processes. PDP plays a big role in that. I've been really impressed by how this group has stepped up, challenged themselves, and grown – both in their roles and personally. Well done to you all!”
While the programme may be ending for this group, development is an ongoing journey – and we’re looking forward to seeing what they’ll do next – and how they’ll continue to grow, lead and inspire others across Avon.