Training

Every employee in the company takes part in the annual Personal Development Programme (PDP), which reviews skills and performance and identifies opportunities for recognition and advancement. The PDP is also the primary tool for assessing and planning employee training. In 2011, we invested over $26 million in training (including courses, seminars, one-on-one instruction, and tuition reimbursement) to develop the capabilities and future potential of our people.

The Reed Elsevier Learning Centre, available on the global intranet, provides access to tools to further employee professional development. Resources include Harvard Manage Mentor, covering a wide range of management topics, from business basics to strategy execution from business leaders, experts, and practitioners. We also provide a comprehensive range of e-learning courses to employees through Skillsoft, covering hundreds of subjects in 15 different languages. Another tool available to staff is Cultural Navigator, which highlights how cultural preferences can affect the way we work.

By the close of 2011, 355 of Reed Elsevier’s top executives completed Management Development Planning (MDP) or had their existing development plan revisited. Each MDP leads to precise actions for attaining present and future career objectives; provides an insightful view of the individual; and encourages openness as sensitive issues are addressed in a spirit of confidentiality and respect. The process involves in-depth interviews to assess strengths and development areas, agreeing an action plan with the individual and their manager on present role, skills/knowledge, and future career aspirations. Plans may include gaining international experience, focused coaching, and engagement outside the company, including charity placements with Pilotlight to share expertise in new areas. Progress against development plans is regularly checked and updated.

LexisNexis UK was awarded the London Macro Employer Award 2011 at the National Training Awards. The Awards, held by the UK’s Skills Funding Agency, recognise companies who have achieved outstanding organisational and individual success through investments and innovation in training, learning, and development.