Creating a future in Digital & Technology: A conversation with Richard Langford.

29 Jan 2025 Learning and DevelopmentEarly careersCareer AdviceDigital and Technology

We’re proud of the diverse learning and development opportunities we offer our people at different stages of their career to fuel their growth and our collective success, as they create a future worth celebrating.

We spoke to Richard, Portfolio and Project Management Director in our Digital & Technology (D&T) team to find out more about making the most of your career journey with us.

We’re proud of the diverse learning and development opportunities we offer our people at different stages of their career to fuel their growth and our collective success, as they create a future worth celebrating.

We spoke to Richard, Portfolio and Project Management Director in our Digital & Technology (D&T) team to find out more about making the most of your career journey with us.

Q. How does our Graduate programme along with other development programmes contribute to building a pipeline of future leaders in D&T?

I joined the D&T function as a Graduate trainee 24 years ago. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to work in various interesting roles, continuously learning about different areas of the business and understanding how the different parts of an IT organisation come together. 

Our Graduate programmes are certainly more structured and mature now than they were 24 years ago. However, they continue to offer exciting opportunities for individuals to experience a variety of roles and quickly develop both a well-rounded knowledge of the company and, just as importantly, a network of relationships with great people from diverse backgrounds. 

More recently, I’ve participated in the D&T Turbo Leadership Development programme, which aims to grow a pipeline of talent for future Director-level positions. This program has been instrumental in helping me reflect on my role of a Diageo leader and how I own my leadership style and mindset.  

Investing in these types of Graduate and Leadership Development programmes underscores our commitment to developing talent and shaping the future of our organisation. 

Q. What skills and competencies do the programmes help to develop?

These development programs encourage participants to develop a wide range of skills, including:

  • Strategic Thinking - seeing the big picture and planning for the future 
  • Effective Communication - particularly for more senior stakeholder groups 
  • Leadership Skills - with emphasis on how becoming an authentic, follow-worth leader 
  • Adaptability & resilience - analysing problems and thinking critically to make informed decisions 
  • Understanding and respecting cultural differences - and the importance of promoting inclusivity within teams 

This structured approach to development supports individuals in taking the time to reflect and build the leadership skills crucial for our future success. 

Q. What role do these programmes play in helping our people to grow with us?

Structured programs like graduate schemes, leadership training, and mentorship opportunities provide employees with a clear path for personal growth and career advancement. This emphasis on continuous learning is invaluable, as it supports a steady pipeline of capable, experienced leaders ready to tackle future challenges. 

By investing in these programs, we show we’re committed to nurturing talent rather than expecting people to develop on their own. This proactive approach highlights our recognition of the immense value in building and developing our people.