Julia Smith, our Soft Skills Trainer in the Professional Support team, has been recognised by the City & Guilds Foundation with a Membership Award. She is one of only 19 people across the UK to receive this prestigious honour this year, and the only trainer from a law firm to do so.
The award celebrates outstanding trainers who go above and beyond in delivering exceptional learning and development. Julia underwent a rigorous two-stage assessment, including an interview with an independent panel, which evaluated both her professional expertise and the measurable impact she has had on learners, colleagues and the wider organisation.
Julia said: “It feels incredibly rewarding and humbling to have my hard work recognised by City & Guilds. Having spent 29 years delivering training across a range of sectors, I’m lucky to do something I love every single day. Over the years I’ve created and delivered award-winning programmes and contributed to developing the graduate scheme, but this recognition feels particularly special. It’s the first time my skills as a facilitator have been formally acknowledged. I’m truly overwhelmed and proud to be recognised by such a respected organisation for doing what I’m most passionate about.
“I’m fortunate to be part of an incredible team and to have a manager who shows real confidence in me and the work I do. I love being able to share best practice and watch colleagues I’ve trained grow and develop in their own roles; that’s something that always makes me proud. Most importantly, there’s a real sense of purpose in knowing that we’re part of a business that helps people through distressing and challenging times. That combination of trust, teamwork and meaningful work makes Express a great place to work.”
We look forward to celebrating with Julia when she receives her award in London next March.