The 2008 Learning In Practice Awards

“Farmers is an organization [that] supports and believes in the importance of learning as a driver of business results,” Thompson said. “I am so honored to have the privilege to represent Farmers for the CLO leadership award, [and I’m] also very grateful for the support of the vision to bring learning together across our organization for even deeper and greater strategic advantage for our great organization.”

– Deanna Hartley

LEADERSHIP AWARD • SILVER • DIVISION 1

Carol Maietta
Vice President, Chief Learning Officer, St. Vincent’s Health System

Carol Maietta assumed the responsibilities of chief learning officer at St. Vincent’s Health System in 2006, just prior to a merger of one Catholic hospital with a system of three hospitals that weren’t faith-based.

It was Maietta’s job to provide guidance to the senior leadership team following a series of challenges the company faced as a result of the transition.

To begin, senior leaders who had never crossed professional paths had to work together as a team and learn how to role model spirituality in the workplace. The merger also called for the creation of a preferred culture model that could be applied across the organization and new decision-making and communications processes.

A number of initiatives produced positive outcomes, as determined by a variety of metrics used to track progress. And the senior leaders outlined 12 dimensions that helped the company develop a preferred culture model.

In keeping with the preferred culture, the company outlined mission integration plans, such as providing opportunities for leaders’ spiritual development. Efforts in system integration ensured a smooth transition following the merger, and specific actions were taken to improve organizational communications.

In addition, the senior leaders at St. Vincent’s Health System provided input in the development and implementation of a change leadership transition plan. A formal structure was put in place to deal with workforce planning and development issues such as recruitment, retention and learning and development.

Article Keywords: blended learning communities of practice e-Learning formal learning leadership development LMS metrics on-boarding outsourcing performance management succession planning talent management technology virtual learning