Inspirational Women: Sarah Aubrey

Sarah Aubrey is the CEO of DPG. Developing People Globally (DPG) leads the way with flexible learning solutions that guarantee success in professional qualifications.

With over 25 years’ experience delivering innovative and credible quality programmes, we enable professionals to build their capability, drive the performance of their organisation, and fast track their career unlike anyone else. Our philosophy is simple: your success is our success.

Tell us a bit about yourself, background and your current role

My career is centred in the professional development sector. I am deeply passionate about helping individuals and organisations to accelerate their ambitions, through the provision of world-class professional qualifications and development solutions. My career began by chance, after taking on a role selling professional qualifications at MOL Learn in 2002. Quickly I rose through the ranks, with an internal promotion each year, taking me to become Head of CIPD qualifications, in the UK and Internationally.

I joined DPG, as CIPD Director in 2008 and became a Board member in 2009 and haven’t looked back since. Today I am CEO at DPG and my role centres around providing the best service possible to those wanting to accelerate their HR, L&D and Management skills via professional CIPD qualifications and apprenticeships.

Did you ever sit down and plan your career?

No, not at all. I have always had a keen interest in business strategy, leadership and psychology. However, I took my first position in the sector post-completion of an MSc, whilst I figured out what I wanted to do…!

Have you faced any challenges along the way?

Throughout my career, I have been presented with opportunities to progress, that I didn’t feel ready for at the time. I took the leap and through the tough times, learned the most. I really subscribe to Brene Brown’s philosophy about being courageous by putting ourselves in a place of vulnerability. I knew even back then in my early career that if I didn’t make myself vulnerable and take the leap that I would regret it.

What has been your biggest achievement to date?

The achievement that I am proudest of in my career is the success the team and I have achieved at DPG. In 2009-10 we worked extremely hard to ensure DPG was first to market with world class HR and L&D qualifications. This was a major catalyst for DPG and propelled us to a market leading position. Soon after we secured sole partnership with CIPD for the CIPD Advanced Level qualifications. A fantastic achievement for us all and testament to the exceptional quality and service that sits in DPG’s DNA.