L&D at the AI Table: Shaping Strategy, Not Just Providing the Training with Simon Brown

In this episode, Simon Brown takes us inside his role as Global Learning & Development Leader at EY, sharing how he sits at the table shaping the organisation’s AI agenda rather than just delivering training. We explore how L&D can move from a support function to a strategic driver in the AI era, the practical ways his team is role-modelling AI, and the benefits of taking an integrated approach across departments to unlock real impact.

Simon also gives his perspective on the speed at which AI is transforming L&D, what this means for day-to-day operations, and how teams can stay relevant in a rapidly changing landscape. He shares actionable advice for L&D leaders who feel they might be behind the curve, offering insights into how to forge influence, make AI work for learning, and prepare their organisations for the next wave of skills development.

Take your L&D to the next level

Take advantage of thousands of hours of analysis. Hundreds of conversations with industry innovators and 25+ years of hands-on global L&D leadership.

It's all distilled into one framework to help you level up L&D. Access the L&D Maturity Model here - https://360learning.com/maturity-model

KEY TAKEAWAYS

A skills-based learning ecosystem where skills act as the “connective tissue” and people build visible skills profiles, earn badges by applying new capabilities, and are then scheduled onto projects based on those skills  turns learning into a direct driver of real work opportunities and career growth.

A clear vision, strategy and operating model, agreed with the C‑suite, gives L&D a mandate and protects it from shiny object tech decisions.

L&D only stays relevant if it matches consumer-grade, AI-powered experiences and uses AI itself to accelerate and personalise learning. Be part of early AI conversations.

BEST MOMENTS

“The learning is actually done by interaction with an AI agent, and that agent will guide you through step by step what might be a good agent for you to build.”

“We've tried to role model how to use the (AI) technology ourselves in how we build the learning solutions.”