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Workplace Stories by RedThread Research

Redefining Learning and Development at McKinsey: Lisa Christensen

Oct 9, 2024
46:46
What if your L&D team could shift from merely delivering training to truly driving your company’s strategic goals? In this conversation, we talk with Lisa Christensen, McKinsey’s Director of Learning and Innovation. Lisa takes a refreshingly strategic approach, asking not just how L&D can support learning but “To what end?” She shares how her focus on outcomes over output has reshaped McKinsey’s approach to everything from people analytics to building a strong feedback culture.

We also talk about why L&D should embrace experimentation, moving far beyond traditional course delivery to tackle big organizational challenges. Lisa makes the case for L&D to collaborate closely with People Analytics and Legal to ensure that learning initiatives aren’t just reactive but strategically positioned for future growth. Her “no regrets” actions offer useful, bold steps for L&D leaders, inspiring us to see the function as a driver of both human and organizational transformation.

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...
  • Why McKinsey's L&D team always starts with the question, "To what end?" [1:00]
  • The risk of L&D focusing only on short-term skill needs [15:00]
  • Collaboration with People Analytics transforming L&D's impact [18:00]
  • L&D teams losing their value by sticking to outdated metrics [20:00]
  • What it means for L&D to have an experimental mindset [31:00]
  • How L&D leaders can ensure their department's stability and credibility [37:00]
  • The “no regrets” actions every L&D team should consider right now [43:00]
Resources & People MentionedConnect with Lisa ChristensenConnect With Red Thread Research
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