What is your current role?
Learning Management System Administrator.
How long have you been with Direct Line?
Six years in August 2024.
What kind of education and training did your career require?
- Strong technical skills. You must be proficient in managing and troubleshooting software systems, databases, and networks.
- Specific training in our Learning Management System, which is provided by our LMS vendor, Bridge. You need to understand how to configure the system, create courses and learning paths, manage user accounts, generate reports, and provide technical support to users.
- Continuous learning of technology is crucial to stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in educational technology and e-learning. Our LMS, Bridge, is always updating its platform with the latest trends and client system requests. Bridge also offers weekly webinars, open office hours, and continuous learning for Admins.
- Soft skills, in my opinion, are the most important. Effective communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills are crucial. I often interact with all levels of management, learners, IT staff, and other stakeholders, so being able to communicate technical concepts clearly to non-technical users is essential. The ability to prioritize tasks, manage projects, and work well under pressure is also valuable in this role.
What do you think is needed to be successful in your role?
- Being proficient in managing and troubleshooting the technical aspects of the LMS platform. This includes understanding system configurations, managing user permissions, resolving technical issues, and optimizing system performance.
- Having a thorough understanding of the specific LMS platform(s) used by their organization.
- Being able to analyze problems, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions in a timely manner is essential for success.
- Managing user accounts, course enrollments, permissions, and system configurations requires meticulous attention to detail.
- Effective communication is crucial for interacting with instructors, students, IT staff, and other stakeholders.
- It’s also important to stay updated on industry trends and be willing to adapt their skills and knowledge to meet evolving needs.
- Working with employees at every level of the organization requires good collaboration skills and being open-minded to requests and suggestions.
What does a typical day look like for you at Direct Line?
My typical day revolves around training coordination and comprehensive reporting of our training data. I support field employees in navigating our learning platform, Bridge, and addressing any technical issues they encounter. I customize courses and learning journeys within Bridge to meet the specific needs of different teams, while also implementing automated reporting systems. Additionally, I compile detailed weekly and monthly reports on DLU technical training. I also work closely with the Safety and RSG teams, assisting with training inquiries and requirements.
What would you like to say to someone interested in applying to work at Direct Line?
Direct Line is growing and always evolving. If you have a great work ethic and are looking for a company that invests in its employees, DL is for you. There are so many opportunities here, one could stay in their position if they wish or get the training they need to progress in their career. The sky is truly the limit here.
Tell us about your career path at Direct Line.
My background is in human resources and banking. When I joined DL, the DLU training department was new and growing quickly. I started as a Project Coordinator for the training team, helping it grow and change. Then in October 2022, I moved up to become the LMS Administrator, which I really enjoy. While I’m happy where I am now, I know there are many opportunities to advance at DL in the future.
Tell us a surprising or fun fact about you.
I love horses and the equestrian world. I used to breed quarter horses as a hobby before my career with DL which allowed me to meet some amazing people across the U.S. I am going to Montana this summer to work on a cattle ranch for a week which I am super excited about!
