The Assembly

In this fascinating interview, Adam speaks with Ash Wedderburn, the Learning & Development Manager at GB Railfreight. 

Ash leads on all things training, learning and development. Previously at Showsec and before that at G4S, Ash has a background in identifying learning needs and developing, launching and managing complex learning initiatives in a variety of organisational environments.

In this episode, Adam and Ash discuss:
  1. The benefits of a centralised L&D function for GB Railfreight 
  2. Commercialising L&D for ROI
  3. Delving into understanding the link between what employees want to learn and how this matches with the organisations strategic objectives. 
  4. How the importance of speaking to those who will be doing the training cannot be underestimated. 
  5. The fact that L&D practitioners will need to do multiple iterations of their plans before getting to something that will benefit the organisation and the employee. 
  6. The important questions you need to ask when designing a piece of L&D. 
Connect with Ash on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashendenwedderburn/

What is The Assembly?

The Assembly: Where L&D Minds Assemble

The future of workplace learning doesn’t live in theory — it lives in lived experience, fresh research, and honest conversations.
That’s what The Assembly delivers.

Hosted by Adam Lacey, Co-Founder of Assemble You and digital learning veteran, and Brigid McCormack, a newcomer to the world of L&D, this is your go-to space for rich, real talk on what’s driving L&D forward.

In each episode, you’ll find:
Richer insights that go beyond surface-level tips to unpack what really works in learning today
Expert perspectives from leaders shaping the L&D landscape
Access to new research on tech, methods, and innovations defining tomorrow’s learning culture
Practical strategies you can use right now to build essential skills like leadership, communication, and adaptability

Whether you’re designing programs, shaping strategy, or driving culture change — if learning is your thing, this is your podcast.

Formally known as L&D Challenges.