Olivea Ebanks MSc

Learning & Development Skills Specialist

I am an InterCHANGE People Development associate and a Learning and Development specialist with extensive experience in developing Leadership in senior managers and the Judiciary of England and Wales. With over 30 years’ experience in learning management I was the first to design cross jurisdictional training for judges in Unconscious Bias Awareness, Appraisals and Mentoring skills. I have also worked on high profile projects like the Mubarek murder recommendations for improvement of prisoner treatment, and the Lammy Review: an independent review of the treatment of, and outcomes for, Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) individuals in the Criminal Justice System (CJS); commissioned by former Prime Minister David Cameron and chaired by David Lammy MP.

I am experienced at partnering with stakeholders, senior business leaders and human resource managers to: progress people management strategies that deliver organisational change, embed inclusive values into operating principles, and leverage diversity partnerships, all with a focus on commercial results.

I have liaised with Permanent Secretaries and Director Generals to increase representation of Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic staff in senior roles. Other diversity projects include Equality Act training for judges, using the Harvard Implicit Association Test for staff in government, drafting equality standards and action plans, investigating complaints of differential treatment, and running focus groups to report on perceptions of fairness.

Artistically, I am a prolific and published writer and a passionate performance poet. I have had the privilege of writing and performing for Baroness Doreen Lawrence, Carmen Munroe MBE and Lord Ouseley. I have a rare ability to sensitively challenge and thoroughly entertain my professional and artistic audiences alike. I enjoy working in my local community coaching individuals to develop their own personal power by identifying and challenging thought processes and experiences that erode confidence and self-esteem. I support local community projects aimed at empowering women and young people.

My delivery style is highly participative as I am always keen for everyone to take ownership of their personal learning journey. Clients have described my style as being inspirational, intuitive and fun. I have a Masters degree with distinction in Training and Performance Management and I am a qualified MBTI practitioner.