Western researcher works with a graduate student.

Professional Development

Professional Development

Western researcher works with a graduate student.

Professional Development

Grow Your Career. Your Way.

At Western, every role is a path to growth — whether you’re leading people, innovating in your field, or helping our community thrive. Leadership isn’t just something we hire for; it’s something we cultivate. We’re always looking for exceptional people to join us, but we also know the best leaders are developed, not just discovered. That’s why we invest deeply in the growth of every member of our community.

Meet Inspiring Western Staff Members

Margaret Mutumba

Margaret Mutumba

Director, Frugal Biomedical Innovations

“The professional development I’ve experienced at Western has equipped me to navigate priorities more effectively, plan strategically, and remain energized and enthusiastic about my leadership contributions. With guidance from experienced facilitators and support from my team, I’ve been inspired to continuously seek out unique opportunities and embrace challenges with intention and confidence.”

Trish Regier

Trish Regier

Manager, Undergraduate Student Services

“With Western’s support, I completed my Master’s in Professional Education, and it was transformational for me. I felt encouraged to continue as a lifelong learner and appreciated the chance to conduct research on ways to best support our undergraduate students. The confidence and new perspectives I gained were determining factors in my promotion to Academic Manager in my Faculty.”

Jeff Renaud

Jeff Renaud

Senior Media Relations Officer

“The excellence, diversity and pure awesomeness of Western’s faculty, staff and students have allowed me to tell highly impactful stories with colleagues and collaborators in media from around the world, including The New York Times, BBC, CNN and The Guardian. And leaders at Western have granted me the treasured space and time, rare commodities at other workplaces, required to make these critical connections happen.”

Lifelong Learning

Your development doesn’t stop when you arrive. Western provides financial support for continuous learning, along with a wide range of opportunities to sharpen your skills and expand your horizons. These include Western Continuing Studies certificate programs, such as our Certificate in Management, specialized courses for Operational Excellence, and leadership development workshops and seminars. All these give you the tools to take charge of your professional journey. 

A staff participant in courses through Continuing Studies.
A leader participates in Western's Leaders Forum.
Hayley Wickenheiser does a selfie with participants at the Staff and Leader Learning Day.

Investing in Western Employees

Your professional journey matters to us. That’s why Western invests in the growth of all employees, at every stage of their careers.

A guest speaker addresses participants in a Staff and Leader conference day.

A Culture of Learning

Build skills that strengthen your work and career. Explore opportunities through our Staff Learning Events, the Operational Excellence Series and Continuing Studies programs including the Professional Certificate in Public Sector Management (CIM).
An instructor at a white board teaches an Excellence in Leadership session.

Leadership Development

Take the next step in your leadership journey. Programs like Excellence in Leadership and Leaders' Forums are designed to support both academic and administrative leaders.
A staff participant sits at a table during an Operational Excellence recognition ceremony.

Funding to Grow Your Career

Invest in your future with Western’s financial support. Eligible staff can access funding for courses, certificates, and other learning opportunities aligned with their current role or future career goals. 

Your Next Step

Wherever you want to take your career, Western helps you get there. Explore Western University roles.