Tech-Driven Trailblazer in Learning & Development

We had the pleasure of sitting down with Ryan Davies, Vice President of Learning and Development at Axos Bank, to delve into his experience and insights in the ever-evolving landscape of learning and development (L&D).

To get a brief glimpse of Ryan's outlook on life, we (the Lever Talent team) first met him just after his early morning workout routine. When asked if he was training for a specific event or marathon, he immediately responded, "Yes, I'm training for life."

Right from the start, we knew we were in for an enlightening conversation. 

A Deep Commitment to Learning

Reflecting on the early days of his career, he describes a time he received a compact disc (also known as a “CD” for any millennials out there) with daily inspirational messages, which was “cutting-edge” at that time. Since then, the landscape of L&D has evolved significantly, with the emergence of web-based training, virtual reality, gamification, peer learning, and career pathing with customized learning journeys. 

Ryan’s first exposure to corporate learning in development dates back to 2000 with Dale Carnegie Training.

"At the time, I was selling Cutco Cutlery.  It was my first sales job and 100% commission.  I signed up for the Sales Advantage Course because I wanted to learn how I can sell more effectively.  After graduating from the course, I was invited to come back as a graduate assistant where I helped the instructor with examples, role plays and was basically there to support participants who were attending for the first time.  Little did I know that six years later, I would be joining the organization full time as a sales consultant and eventual Certified Trainer.”

Ryan recalls the 2007-2008 Global Financial Crisis as a significant turning point for corporate training and development.  Historically, it was not uncommon to have 35-40 learners participating in the foundational program.  As companies were forced to cut budgets, he saw a significant drop in attendance. 

In late 2009, as the economic turndown began to turn around, Ryan expected a corresponding increase in attendance commensurate with the increasing budgets and renewed commitment to employee development.  To his surprise, attendance remained relatively flat, and a lack of funding was no longer the primary issue. Time was the new and most significant challenge.  Participants were hesitant to commit to 8-12 weeks of training.  They wanted results quicker.  They wanted flexibility in how they were learning.  And they wanted personalization of their unique challenges. 

"As of result of this, we had to pivot.  We had to be willing to break away from our old model and adopt new approaches.  So we began offering half-day and full-day workshops targeting more specific skill sets.  We embraced a competency-based development system (created by our headquarters) which allowed us to rapidly deploy customized training to meet the unique needs of our clients in a timeframe that they could accommodate.  These changes allowed us to remain competitive and profitable and stay relevant in a changing L&D landscape.”

Adaptability, Ryan cites, was the key at that time and has become one of the keys to success that he carries with him to this day. 

Leveraging New Technologies

When discussing the role of generative AI technologies like ChatGPT in revolutionizing L&D, Ryan emphasized that engaging in dynamic learning conversations with AI is one of the more exciting opportunities for learners. Learners can ask questions and receive feedback and answers through effective prompts, leading to dynamic conversations and customized learning paths. 

"I find myself sometimes unintentionally going down this rabbit hole in a very free-flowing way that is exciting.  I feel like I’m in control of my learning, and because I’m driving the conversation, I’m invested.”

Ryan firmly believes that such technologies inspire learners to take ownership of their learning journey, surpassing their initial goals. He also believes that when embracing new technology, like AI, individuals must have a clear purpose and use case in mind.  Some questions to consider include:

• How is [this technology] going to help me in my job, in my day-to-day? 
• What problems is [this technology] going to solve? 
• What is the ROI of adopting and embracing [this technology]?

For example, in his current role at Axos Bank, Ryan is leveraging the AI application, Synthesia, to create videos used in web-based training. 

“The time and cost involved with traditional video production was too high.  Reading text on a PowerPoint or within a Articulate RISE article can also tax the learner.  I needed the ability to create high-quality videos within budget rapidly.  Tools like Synthesia have helped me to rapidly scale video production without sacrificing quality. The pitch to my Sr. Leadership was simple: 'I believe this technology will save time, improve my productivity, and improve the quality of the learner experience.'  With leadership support, I’ve successfully leveraged this new technology and have leveled up the quality of the product I provide to the business.” 

Since joining Axos Bank, Ryan has been working hard to establish the Learning and Development function as a critical contributor to the success of employees and business success. This Strategist PI Reference Profile constantly balances the need to deliver results quickly while maintaining high quality.  The skill of adaptability and the willingness to leverage new technology has allowed him to maintain this core value of his quality work. 

“We are just getting started, and I’m excited about the great initiatives we have planned.  Our Management Essentials Training 2.0 program has helped to establish a common set of management skills and competencies across the enterprise.  I’m looking to continue building and delivering scalable solutions that will empower our employees to perform at their best.”    

The future is bright for this L&D Leader! 🚀

We thank Ryan for his time and valuable contributions to our Lever Limelight interview. His innovative mindset and commitment to leveraging technology in learning and development make him a true inspiration. Stay tuned for our monthly newsletter featuring more Lever Limelights.