At the heart of Diageo’s Learning for Life programme is a simple belief: investing in people leads to extraordinary outcomes. For Wayne, a Programme Manager at Springboard, this isn’t just a job-it’s a personal mission.

Known for his dapper style and warm, calming presence, Wayne has guided hundreds into hospitality careers, many from challenging backgrounds. What sets his work apart is trust. “We don’t just teach skills, we build trust,” Wayne says. “That’s what makes the transformation stick.”

From Dance Studios to Hospitality Classrooms

Wayne’s career path has been anything but traditional, spanning contemporary dance, gallery management, banking, and electrical firms. Yet, his passion has always been people. “I’ve always wanted to help people grow,” he says. “Learning for Life isn’t just about employment-it’s about empowerment, restoring confidence and self-worth.”

For Wayne, programme management is about mentorship and encouragement, creating a space where those who’ve been overlooked can stand tall again.

What Does a Learning for Life Programme Manager Do?

The role blends planning, people management, training, and aftercare. Wayne recruits participants, often through Job Centres and community partners, runs info sessions and interviews, delivers employability sessions, supports trainees through qualifications, and arranges site visits or placements. He also provides one-to-one support and guidance.

“No two days are the same,” Wayne says. “I might be writing session plans, supporting someone through a job interview, and visiting an employer site-all in one day. It’s busy but deeply rewarding.”

His aim is to help each participant become “work ready,” which means building CVs, improving communication and teamwork, sourcing interview outfits, and boosting confidence. Support continues up to 12 months after graduation. “Some of our biggest successes started with people who nearly gave up on day one,” Wayne says. “I stay in touch so they know they’re not alone.”

Inspiring Confidence, One Trainee at a Time

Wayne’s impact is reflected in the gratitude of his trainees, who recently gifted him a bottle of Johnnie Walker Double Black and a handmade card. Messages included:
“You see the potential in people and help them realise it. Thank you for being an inspiration!”
“Thank you for helping to improve my confidence and believing that I have something to offer.”

He recalls a young woman who had experienced homelessness and severe anxiety. “She could barely make eye contact on day one,” he says. By the end, she was leading group tasks and secured a job in a top hotel. “It was like watching someone come back to life.” Wayne sees this transformation often, especially during practical days in real hospitality environments. “That’s where everything clicks,” he says. “You see them realise, ‘I can do this.’ They belong.”

The Secret Ingredient: Compassion

According to Wayne, empathy is key. “You have to meet people where they are, without judgement. Whether someone is dealing with anxiety or low confidence, you listen, adapt, and remind them that struggling doesn’t mean failing.” This approach builds deep relationships with trainees, many of whom keep in touch, sharing stories of promotions or returning to mentor others.

“It’s the people who keep me coming back,” Wayne says. “Seeing someone leave with a job and a smile-that’s everything.”

The Backbone of Learning for Life

Programme Managers like Wayne guide participants through life-changing transitions. They don’t just teach-they advocate, empower, and believe in their trainees, sometimes before anyone else does. Thanks to their dedication, Diageo’s Learning for Life continues to support thousands into fulfilling hospitality careers.

Wayne may not be on the front cover, but he’s the one making sure everything runs smoothly-measured, generous, and always with heart, compassion, and character.