Paola Illuzzi

Results-driven Learning and Development leader with over 25 years of experience in education, organizational development, and talent management. Proven success in designing strategic learning solutions, instructional design, and capability development that drive performance and growth. Passionate about fostering a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and innovation, aligning learning strategies with organizational goals. Expert in team leadership and mentoring, equipping employees to excel in dynamic environments. Strong communicator with a track record of building relationships with diverse stakeholders. Committed to excellence and empowering teams to achieve measurable outcomes in rapidly evolving settings.

• Mapped and developed tiered Business-as-Usual (BAU) training offerings for Case Managers at QBE Insurance, supporting structured career progression and capability development, aligned with both internal standards and industry benchmarks.
• Designed and implemented a Professional Development Pathway for Case Managers, ensuring clear career progression opportunities while enhancing skills in line with icare Professional Standards.
• Led the onboarding process for new hires, streamlining the transition into the workplace and aligning training with organisational culture, resulting in faster integration and improved retention.
• Facilitated 'Train the Trainer' sessions, effectively upskilling new facilitators and maintaining high-quality, consistent delivery of learning programs across teams.
• Drove continuous improvement processes within the learning function at QBE by implementing data-driven feedback and evaluation mechanisms, leading to increased engagement and improved learning outcomes.
• Successfully implemented SmartSheets for project management, enhancing data visibility, coordination, and oversight of training initiatives across the organisation.
• Collaborated with cross-functional Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to enhance training programs, ensuring that learning solutions were closely aligned with business needs and met evolving industry requirements.
• Implemented a comprehensive K-12 timetabling system for large student cohorts, ensuring balanced resource allocation and significantly improving both operational efficiency and learning outcomes in the educational sector.
• Led the design and execution of differentiated professional learning programs, directly improving teaching practices and student performance across multiple key areas.
• Completed an enforceable undertaking with SafeWork NSW, elevating the school’s compliance and safety standards, resulting in a safer, more accountable environment for staff and students.
• Developed and launched a Teaching and Learning Framework embedded with Explicit Teaching Models, fostering a culture of reflective practice and driving sustained improvements in student outcomes and teacher effectiveness.