Business Learning Advisor: a New Role for Learning and Talent Leaders

Because of the changes happening in the work environment and the myriad opportunities evolving from technology disruptions, talent professionals are discussing the new roles needed to engage with the organization in ways that strategically create environments for employees to perform in a manner that delivers the needed results. Based on ideas from Jane Hart, Elliot Masie, and other thought leaders, a role that has surfaced in the ATD Forum is Business Learning Advisor (BLA). Crowdsourcing information within the Forum resulted in the following operational definition for a BLA: A BLA is a trusted and “go-to” business guide who adds value to delivering performance using a deep knowledge of learning theory and practices to develop people, especially those working together. They have a keen understanding of the organizational system and market trends that influence enterprise results.