North Metro Health Service

Learning & Development Operating Model Review

What they said.

Zest HR helped us pull together a set of really complex issues into a clear deliverable plan for action. It was a marathon effort by all involved, but we really feel positive 
and assured about the future direction of travel.
Charles O’Hanlon
Executive Director People & Culture

Mission Goals

We took a deep dive into learning and development (L&D) at North Metropolitan Health Service (NMHS), a bustling hub of over 15,000 staff and 100 full-time equivalent education roles. Our mission? To whip up a fresh, future-proof operating model. We sized up the current state, scoped out top-notch practices, and alongside the executive team created a revamped L&D operating model.

The Solution

L&D at NMHS? It’s a big deal. So, we sat down and really chewed over what the NMHS L&D crew and customers and wanted to see down the line. To make sure the model was really going to make an impact, we guided the NMHS execs through a co-design process where everyone could shape the new operating model.

The result?
An L&D game plan that paints a vivid picture of the future. It’s got clear milestones and a roadmap to get the NMHS there. With a focus on learner-centricity, technology, integrated multidisciplinary learning, and good clear governance, the team are set up to thrive in 2025 and beyond.

Highlights

Team Contribution
The NMHS folks were more than ready 
to roll up their sleeves, share their
thoughts, and lend a hand in moulding the future of L&D at NMHS.

Executive Co-Design
The executive team realised the value of contributing to and shaping the future of L&D resulting in something that was meaningful for our staff and teams.

Future Focus
The operating model and areas for priority
action were built with the future in mind. Creating something that would evolve with
the changing organisational context and future 
of work means NMHS are well set to lead the way in L&D in healthcare.

Realistic Horizons
While the vision was bold, the plan was realistic. The horizons are broken down to 
focus on what matters most first and build 
on those gains over time, creating meaningful change, day by day

Challenges

  • The size and scope and complexity of L&D at NMHS.
  • Creating a cost-effective operating model that would 
make a real impact.

Wins

  • An operating model that all execs with a direction of travel for L&D that is owned and believed in
  • A clear and simple plan to roll out and take the team on the journey

More Work.

Explore how Zest partners with organisations to co-create thriving workplaces. Our case studies showcase real-world transformations where strategy, empathy, and innovation converge to drive meaningful change.

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