Exchanging RPS ideas and talent around the world

The end of lockdowns has seen a flurry of activity around RPS, with dormant exchange programs now coming back to life.

Out of the gates early was project manager Irene Vlandis who flew from Canberra, Australia to the UK to spend five weeks as part of RPS’ International Talent Exchange Program.

Still in its pilot phase, the program allows employees to experience RPS as a global company and learn from colleagues in other parts of the world.​​​​​​​

Executive Director of Project Management - Australia Asia Pacific, Michael Owens, says the program was developed off the back of employee feedback about preferred career development opportunities:

“While we had an offering of longer exchange arrangements previously, employees told us they’d like shorter opportunities. This exchange program has been developed to run over a five-week period in response to that feedback.

“I think it’s incredibly important to offer exchange programs to share our global knowledge and experience, build relationships, develop talent and expand the skillset of our employees.”​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Irene spent her five-week trip visiting work sites and RPS offices around the UK where she was exposed to different industries and projects than her usual work back home.

Finishing last month, Irene said the program was an incredible experience.

“I loved every single minute of my experience - while it was exhausting as I wanted to squeeze in as much as I possibly could, I have learned so much about myself, and I feel like I have grown both professionally and personally.

“I found the program extremely valuable. I have expanded on my skillset, built valuable professional relationships, gained knowledge and understanding of the UK business, and have had the opportunity to share my knowledge with the UK team.

“Now that I have returned, I am looking forward to sharing my experience with the wider RPS team and getting involved with organising future programs so others can enjoy a similar experience.”

Michael said Irene was selected after a competitive process, in part, to recognise her hard work in Canberra.

“The pilot program will be expanded with two more employees to head off later this year. We want the program to continue to evolve and be flexible in that we can tailor it to offer valuable experiences for participants. And while this year we’re working with the UK team, we’d like to see the program extend to North America and Norway in time.”

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