With a legacy that spans four decades, we continue to innovate and design learning solutions at the forefront of effective corporate training. From interactive workshops and experiential business simulations, to a diverse portfolio of digital learning experiences – our offering is unparalleled in the corporate training marketplace.
We are passionate about what we do to ensure we deliver for our clients through our talented and creative team. From experienced training facilitators and designers, through an ever-expanding team of learning technologists and media specialists, to our dedicated team of client service professionals – we are an extension of your team and your genuine partner.
We are industry agnostic. Yes, we have extensive experience across the financial services industry, however, we work across all industries and for every client we spend the time necessary to ensure we design and deliver solutions that deliver the learning outcomes you seek.
Trusted by Leading Global Organisations
Meet The MDA Team
DAVID SHUTTLEWORTH
MANAGING DIRECTOR
I am the Managing Director of MDA Training having been in the business for over 25 years. I want to express the passion that motivates and drives me to continue to support this wonderful MDA team. I am passionate about:
Developing people, both in our clients and in ourselves. There is little more rewarding for me than observing people growing intellectually and emotionally.
Changing behaviour through embedding learning in the psyche of the individual and hence in the fabric of the organisations that they work in.
Encouraging and embracing differences. Actively encouraging different views and perspectives is one of life’s joys for me.
Technology enhanced learning solutions. I have always had an intense relationship with experiential learning – learning that engages the mind, the body, and the heart. Capture those elements and you change people.
Get in touch with David here:
NITI JAIN
DIRECTOR
Hi I’m Niti, Director at MDA Training. I’m the brains behind developing the cutting-edge digital simulation-based training content. Armed with a background in computer science and hands-on involvement in both the technology and finance sectors, simulation designing and development keep me consistently engaged, my brain ticking, motivated, and having a blast all at once. I am also responsible for business development and delivering training across various industries in the APAC region. I’ve worked in numerous investment banks, training everyone from new hires to executives.
I love connecting with people from different backgrounds and domains, and thrive on taking up new challenges. Interacting with individuals during training sessions at MDA in different countries has played a significant role in shaping my personality. This exposure to diverse cultures and perspectives has contributed to my personal growth and enriched my outlook on various aspects of life.
Get in touch with Niti here:
DAVID STEPHENS
CHAIRPERSON
I am the part time Chair of MDA Training with over 30 years’ experience with the company. Whilst no longer part of the management of the company I am delighted to still be involved in the design and development of learning activities as well as the occasional delivery.
Right from the start of my career I have always been passionate about learner-centred training. This passion is still relevant today whether designing self-led digital training or creating a new activity or simulation for virtual or physical delivery. I always put the participant’s experience and journey at the centre of everything I do.
Its been rewarding over the years to see what learners find most effective and drawing on that experience to refresh existing programmes and creating something brand new.
Another of my passions is event TV and theatrical events and I still draw on these sources as inspiration to design learning media, games and simulations.
Get in touch with David here:
PAUL HEWETT
DIRECTOR
As a Director of a company that I love, working with clients that I admire, and training people to do better in their roles, I feel I have one of the best jobs in the world. With 30 years experience in designing and delivering leadership, commercial, and financial skills programmes, I look to change behaviours of those in the world of work. Often people need to understand the context of what they do, how a role is important, and why working in different ways will benefit themselves, others and the wider business. Using a learner-centred approach to training and development, I focus on the practical, analytical, and interpersonal skills of learners whatever their level, role, or experience.
I am an accountant, tax consultant, an accredited practitioner in the MBTI and EBW instruments, and a Member of the Institute of Leadership. I hold a degree in Theology from Durham, and before joining MDA I worked at Arthur Andersen and KPMG. In my spare time I am an elected District Councillor and Cabinet Member: it keeps me grounded and lets me work with a community that I’m also passionate about. But that’s a whole other story.
Get in touch with Paul here:
NOOPUR AGARWAL
SENIOR TRAINING CONSULTANT
Having been part of the Financial industry for the last 15 years, I recognise the complexity in the ever changing and evolving financial world. As a consultant, I believe in helping professionals from the financial or the non-financial domain simplify their learning journey through relevant experiential training.
I work with global banks, investment firms, asset managers, and retail businesses, providing guidance tailored to their learning requirements, acknowledging the business context, and crafting personalized learning pathways for an impactful learning experience. My strength lies in designing and delivering in-depth training programs on capital market products, pricing and valuation, investment strategies, risk management, and end to end trading cycle. I enjoy collaborating with those new to the financial industry, exploring aspects such as professional growth, self-evaluation, and cultivating a personal brand as they navigate their careers in the dynamic world of finance.
I believe in learning by doing and one of my specialties involves creating practical simulations that provide learners with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the role of a finance professional. We at MDA, strive to deliver valuable real-world insights, making them a cornerstone of every training program and experience we offer.
Get in touch with Noopur here:
DEBBIE HEARMAN
PRINCIPAL CONSULTANT
When I was younger I wanted to be a teacher, so naturally, I became an accountant. I trained at EY and then went to work at a large multi-national corporation. The call of the “classroom” was too strong, though! What drives me is utility. Being useful – to an individual, to a team, to an organisation. The questions I ask myself when designing and delivering training sessions are “how can I make this easier to grasp?”, “how can I make this more interesting?” and “how can I make this more useful?”.
We all have limited time and attention and we need to make best use of our resources. I see my role as that of a catalyst. If someone wants to develop in terms of their knowledge or skillset, let’s try to make that happen efficiently and effectively so that that person can get to where they want to go faster; achieve their own potential, and help organisations achieve their potential too. An effective training intervention is the one that makes a person better, whether that means more efficient, more accurate, more commercial, more focused, more creative, or more strategic.
Get in touch with Debbie here:
MARK TYSALL
DIRECTOR OF SIMULATIONS
As Leadership & Experiential Learning Consultant I feel privileged to be part of a talented team delivering leadership simulations and experiential learning activities. I’ve been working in L&D for many years and my passion is the design and delivery of experiential events that enable people to challenge and develop themselves to become better people and therefore better leaders. I discovered my passion for helping people to learn and develop during my time as an Outdoor Pursuits Facilitator, running activities which encouraged people to step outside their comfort zones, allowing themselves to grow. Over time, at MDA, we have applied and translated the benefits of these outdoor activities into an indoor environment, developing activities that retain the same challenges and development opportunities.
Prior to working in the L&D space, I trained as a Carpenter & Engineer. I use these skills to design and build the activities that make our leadership and professional development simulations like no others. Developing ourselves, becoming better people and leading people in the right way is core to my belief. By becoming better leaders, we become better people which is something I care deeply about.
Get in touch with Mark here:
OZ HUSSEIN
DIRECTOR
Hello! I’m Oz and one of the Directors here at MDA Training. I’ve pretty much worked at MDA Training since graduating way back in 90s. In my early days at MDA Training I supported the consultants, helping to design their slides and training materials. In those days, training was delivered on acetates – a far cry from the experiential training solutions we design for our clients today!! Having worked from the ground up, I’m privileged to have worked in a number of roles at MDA Training, each time growing my experience and expertise in corporate training.
My role at MDA Training is now quite varied and often I wear numerous hats in any given day. My favourite hat is client management where for some of our clients I’m their first port of call. I absolutely love working in partnership with our clients and drawing on our talented team to design world-class learning solutions. Genuinely, it’s what makes me tick! My other hats include overseeing the marketing at MDA Training and also the IT (IT being one of jobs I’ve never managed to lose from my remit – ha ha!!).
Get in touch with Oz here:
JAMES DIXON
LEARNING TECHNOLOGIST
At MDA Training, I’m responsible for steering the development of customised learning solutions. My role involves designing and implementing technology-driven educational tools and programmes, aiming to modernise traditional training methods with the latest tech innovations.
My skill set is diverse and comprehensive, including graphic and UX design, e-learning, web and app development, and videography. I’m also proficient in various AI tools and applications, which helps me create interactive, accessible and engaging learning experiences which cater to a diverse range of learning styles and preferences.
Beyond work, my passion for technology keeps me on a constant learning journey. This curiosity not only enriches my professional work but also keeps me motivated to continuously innovate and adapt in this ever-evolving field. I firmly believe in the power of evolution in training, a belief I live out both in my career and personal life.
Get in touch with James here:
CARL MEDLAND
PRINCIPAL CONSULTANT
My filmmaking background brings a unique dimension and ability in winning people’s hearts and minds – an essential skill when developing people and their professional skills. My audience ranges from new hires to senior managers. I proactively leverage technology in my learning solutions, whether this be in-person, virtually or hybrid. Learning by doing is central to my approach, creating practical learning experiences that are innovative and highly experiential. I’d like to think if Steven Spielberg did training it would look something like this, minus the spaceships.Dyslexia is my superpower which enables me to innovate utilising neurodiverse methods to ensure training is accessible for variable learning preferences. I consider myself a people’s person, and as an out professional, I like to role model and create visibility for LGBTQ+ communities. I do this in class and in my films which have won awards at film festivals for providing voices for underrepresented communities. In my spare time I mentor film students at Ravensbourne Film School, where I run workshops supporting newly skilled talent into rewarding careers. I champion inclusivity, diversity, and fairness in everything I do.
Get in touch with Carl here:
MANTE BALEVICIUTE
PROGRAMME MANAGER
Hiya my name is Mante, and I wear at least a couple of hats in MDA, being a senior programme manager at MDA Training and also a content creator. My role as a programme manager means I am often the pivot between our clients and our design, development, and delivery team. I manage the day-to-day relationship, logistics and administration for MDA’s largest clients, and have developed a core expertise in organising and coordinating large scale training events.
I also enjoy being part of the delivery team for those large scale events and regularly support the delivery of MDA’s leadership simulation which allows me to deepen client relationships and experience the unique solutions that we provide. It is this creativity, innovation, and variety in my role that I find so rewarding.
My passion outside of work is to travel and to challenge myself, both physically and intellectually, by experiencing as many different environments and cultures as I can. I care deeply about people and the environment, being most at home in the wilderness, although I always return to civilisation, at least I have up to now.
Get in touch with Mante here:
STUART HOPE
TRAINING CONSULTANT
I am a Training Consultant sharing knowledge and changing behaviours across financial services with a desire to create impactful experiential learning. My journey gives me a holistic understanding of how different roles contribute to the success of your business and demonstrates a desire for continuous development. As a former apprentice insurance broker, I took a path that combined hands-on experience with the pursuit of knowledge. While pursuing a bachelor’s degree in insurance, I navigated diverse roles, gaining a thorough understanding of the industry’s nuances. This included steering a small team, where I discovered immense fulfilment in guiding others to success.
Currently serving as a council member of the Insurance Institute of Reading, I dedicate my time to providing networking and learning opportunities that inspire and empower the next generation of industry leaders. Having completed a CII diploma post-graduation, I am currently pursuing an advanced diploma to deepen my expertise. My commitment to education also led me to undertake a second apprenticeship, attaining a Diploma in Education and Training, focusing on experiential learning for diverse audiences.
Get in touch with Stuart here:
TOM JONES
TRAINING CONSULTANT
I am a Training Consultant with a passion for driving individual performance and growth. I have experience in the Insurance Sector having worked in regional broking after leaving university. Like many others I fell into the insurance sector. I struggle to understand why this still seems to be the case, finding it to be an incredibly exciting and varying environment. I take pride in knowing that, through my job, I can help change attitudes and inspire others to find excitement and value in their work. I enjoy the freedom my role at MDA has given me to help shape, design and implement training programmes to the benefit of clients and professionals in the industry. My own excitable personality has relished delivering and designing our experiential simulation-based learning solutions.
I have always enjoyed teaching and training others, ever since my first part time job while at school as a swimming teacher. I have found value and joy in helping others achieve their goals and sharing my knowledge. I have an enquiring mind and find the world around me to be fascinating, I want to inspire that same virtuous learning in the individuals I am lucky enough to share my time with.
I have more recently been working in the Learning and Development sector since early 2020. I was able to play a key role in shaping the strategy and delivery of apprenticeships at a small training provider. Helping them, across the course of two years, to achieve an Outstanding OFSTED grade in their first full inspection. During this time, I was able to develop an incredibly detailed understanding of what is required for successful and well-rounded employees. I also developed exhaustive knowledge of the technical qualifications required for those working in the insurance sector.
Get in touch with Tom here:
TOM DEREGIBUS
SENIOR VIDEO PRODUCER
Hi there! I’m Tom and I’m a Videographer/Producer, creating Videos, Photos and Digital Training Simulations here at MDA Training.
Coming from a Filmmaking background, I love storytelling and bringing elements of cinema to the corporate world. Whether I’m producing a training event highlight video or a roleplay training simulation, I get immense satisfaction out of captivating and engaging audiences.
I’m also a technology enthusiast and I enjoy exploring new tools and ideas and with my team at MDA.
In my free time I enjoy wine tasting, filming music videos and practicing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, although, not necessarily in that order!
Get in touch with Tom here:
ROBYN COETZEE
TRAINING CONSULTANT
I am a training consultant at MDA Training and a proud member of the dynamic team since immigrating to the UK from South Africa in 2023. As a young woman in the finance industry, I understand the nuances of imposter syndrome and recognise the transformative power of knowledge. My role goes beyond the traditional classroom approach – I aim to not just supply participants with knowledge but to immerse them in the dynamic world of financial accounting.
When I’m not at the forefront of training sessions, I find joy in creating new content to bring an immersive experience to participants. Whether crafting a fresh slide deck or collaborating with the development team to build innovative online activities or simulations, I relish the creative process of finding new ways to enhance understanding. Together, we work harmoniously to infuse my financial accounting skills into immersive learning experiences that break free from the ordinary.
Grounded in my personal values – HAKE, representing Honesty, Accountability, Kindness, and Empathy – I bring an open and enthusiastic approach to our collective mission of redefining the educational landscape with MDA.
Get in touch with Robyn here:
RAJUL RAMAN
MARKETING CONSULTANT
My marketing journey started with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, and to broaden my skills, I completed my International Master in Business from SDA Bocconi School of Management in Italy.
At work, I wear multiple hats, ranging from managing SEO and performance marketing to social media and public relations. I’m also involved in organising global podcasts and occasionally step in as a training host. My role extends to conducting workshops for students, adding a diverse touch to my professional journey. My experience with various corporations enhanced my ability to offer innovative marketing solutions. I’ve had the pleasure of working across both B2B and B2C sectors at MDA Training, and with our B2C sister organisation, FMI Online, where we’ve successfully led students into the financial services sector
But there’s more to me than just marketing. Away from work, I take great joy in conducting philosophy lectures, helping individuals find purpose and add value to their communities. This mix of professional skill and personal passion keeps me grounded and inspires meaningful contributions to the world around me.
Get in touch with Rajul here:
SYRUS LOWE
ASSOCIATE TRAINER
I have worked in every corner of the economy as a facilitator, trainer and corporate role play actor. I have covered many Honss including Communicatiing with Confidence, Personal Impact, Diversity and Inclusion, Health and Safety and Inclusive Leadership.
My previous clients include the British Army, Deloitte, BMS Group, Gerald Eve, Public Health England, the Submarine Delivery Agency and The Telegraph.
I am also a RADA trained actor and have appeared in London’s West End in The Inheritance and Best Of Enemies, and on TV shows including, Strike, Treason, Avenue 5 and Netflix’s Treason. I am also the voice for Lars in the hit CBebbies show Go Jetters. In 2016 I created my Role Play Masterclass for Actors. This one-day workshop introduces actors to the world of corporate role-play.
Bloomsbury will publish my book, An Actors Guide to Corporate Role Play: the best side-job for actors in 2024. Qualifications : BA Hons Acting
Get in touch with Syrus here:
TIRTH SHAH
TECHNOLOGY CONSULTANT
Hello, I’m Tirth Shah, a Software Developer at MDA Training. I hold a degree in Computer Engineering from Shah And Anchor Kutchhi Engineering College.
I’m on a mission to propel MDA Training into the forefront of technological innovation, crafting state-of-the-art solutions that redefine excellence. My skills extend beyond traditional programming; I also love gaming consoles, where I merge my technical acumen with my enthusiasm for gaming.
Get in touch with Tirth here:
SANKET NITNAWARE
TECHNOLOGY CONSULTANT
Get in touch with Sanket here:
CLARE CALDERAN
ASSOCIATE TRAINER
Clare delivers on a wide range of MDA Training’s finance and banking programmes in London and New York. Her past assignments have included both technical training in a face-to-face environment and immersive simulation events for a number of leading global banks. Clare is an FCA and holds an honours degree in Engineering from Durham University. She has worked both as a practicing insolvency professional and a corporate broker but now specialises in training.
Get in touch with Clare here:
ROB DOUGHTY
ASSOCIATE TRAINER
Rob is an associate of MDA Training with over 30 years’ experience in professional skills and insurance sector training. A former director of MDA Training, he is a qualified accountant, with extensive experience of working across our client base. Rob has a breadth of commercial experience on which to draw upon when designing and delivering development solutions for our clients.
Get in touch with Rob here:
JUSTIN SANDERS
ASSOCIATE TRAINER
Justin, a former long-term director of MDA Training, is now a trusted associate of MDA Training. Justin helps deliver many of our asset management, investment banking and capital markets programmes for our global financial services clients. Justin has designed many of MDA Training’s interactive learning solutions and simulations, and is renowned for designing and delivering programmes that present complex ideas in a clear, everyday language that delegates can really understand and appreciate.
Get in touch with Justin here:
ADRIAN BROOKES
ASSOCIATE TRAINER
Adrian, a former long-term Director of MDA Training, is now an associate of the company. Adrian has been a trainer for over 30 years and has designed and delivered programmes throughout the world for clients in insurance, asset management, private wealth, corporate finance and also the corporate sector.
Get in touch with Adrian here:
PAUL NORTH
ASSOCIATE TRAINER
Paul is an associate of MDA Training and has over 25 years’ experience of working and training in the capital markets and derivatives industry. He was Head of Education at LIFFE, before leaving in 1998 to pursue a career in financial education and training. Paul has extensive training experience both in the UK and internationally, covering all the major aspects of financial markets. Paul has taught participants at most of the world’s leading investment banks, funds, regulators, software developers, exchanges, central counterparties and commodity houses.
Get in touch with Paul here:
ANTHONY CASSIDY
ASSOCIATE TRAINER
Anthony is an associate of MDA Training and specialises in delivering programmes on financial markets, particularly with a buy side perspective. Following a successful career in the banking and hedge fund sectors, Anthony moved into the training profession where he enjoys bringing his practical experience to life with his engaging training style. As a trainer Anthony has a focus on equity and derivative products along with risk management and portfolio management.
Get in touch with Anthony here:
JOIN OUR TEAM:
Are you passionate about creating impactful learning experiences and driving innovation in training solutions? MDA Training is on the lookout for talented individuals to join our dynamic team. We offer exciting opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge projects in a collaborative and forward-thinking environment. Join us in shaping the future of training and making a meaningful impact with your skills and expertise. Explore career possibilities at MDA Training today!
DAVID SHUTTLEWORTH
MANAGING DIRECTOR
I am the Managing Director of MDA Training having been in the business for over 25 years. I want to express the passion that motivates and drives me to continue to support this wonderful MDA team. I am passionate about:
Developing people, both in our clients and in ourselves. There is little more rewarding for me than observing people growing intellectually and emotionally.
Changing behaviour through embedding learning in the psyche of the individual and hence in the fabric of the organisations that they work in.
Encouraging and embracing differences. Actively encouraging different views and perspectives is one of life’s joys for me.
Technology enhanced learning solutions. I have always had an intense relationship with experiential learning – learning that engages the mind, the body, and the heart. Capture those elements and you change people.
Get in touch with David here:
NITI JAIN
DIRECTOR
Hi I’m Niti, Director at MDA Training. I’m the brains behind developing the cutting-edge digital simulation-based training content. Armed with a background in computer science and hands-on involvement in both the technology and finance sectors, simulation designing and development keep me consistently engaged, my brain ticking, motivated, and having a blast all at once. I am also responsible for business development and delivering training across various industries in the APAC region. I’ve worked in numerous investment banks, training everyone from new hires to executives.
I love connecting with people from different backgrounds and domains, and thrive on taking up new challenges. Interacting with individuals during training sessions at MDA in different countries has played a significant role in shaping my personality. This exposure to diverse cultures and perspectives has contributed to my personal growth and enriched my outlook on various aspects of life.
Get in touch with Niti here:
DAVID STEPHENS
CHAIRPERSON
I am the part time Chair of MDA Training with over 30 years’ experience with the company. Whilst no longer part of the management of the company I am delighted to still be involved in the design and development of learning activities as well as the occasional delivery.
Right from the start of my career I have always been passionate about learner-centred training. This passion is still relevant today whether designing self-led digital training or creating a new activity or simulation for virtual or physical delivery. I always put the participant’s experience and journey at the centre of everything I do.
Its been rewarding over the years to see what learners find most effective and drawing on that experience to refresh existing programmes and creating something brand new.
Another of my passions is event TV and theatrical events and I still draw on these sources as inspiration to design learning media, games and simulations.
Get in touch with David here:
PAUL HEWETT
DIRECTOR
As a Director of a company that I love, working with clients that I admire, and training people to do better in their roles, I feel I have one of the best jobs in the world. With 30 years experience in designing and delivering leadership, commercial, and financial skills programmes, I look to change behaviours of those in the world of work. Often people need to understand the context of what they do, how a role is important, and why working in different ways will benefit themselves, others and the wider business. Using a learner-centred approach to training and development, I focus on the practical, analytical, and interpersonal skills of learners whatever their level, role, or experience.
I am an accountant, tax consultant, an accredited practitioner in the MBTI and EBW instruments, and a Member of the Institute of Leadership. I hold a degree in Theology from Durham, and before joining MDA I worked at Arthur Andersen and KPMG. In my spare time I am an elected District Councillor and Cabinet Member: it keeps me grounded and lets me work with a community that I’m also passionate about. But that’s a whole other story.
Get in touch with Paul here:
NOOPUR AGARWAL
SENIOR TRAINING CONSULTANT
Having been part of the Financial industry for the last 15 years, I recognise the complexity in the ever changing and evolving financial world. As a consultant, I believe in helping professionals from the financial or the non-financial domain simplify their learning journey through relevant experiential training.
I work with global banks, investment firms, asset managers, and retail businesses, providing guidance tailored to their learning requirements, acknowledging the business context, and crafting personalized learning pathways for an impactful learning experience. My strength lies in designing and delivering in-depth training programs on capital market products, pricing and valuation, investment strategies, risk management, and end to end trading cycle. I enjoy collaborating with those new to the financial industry, exploring aspects such as professional growth, self-evaluation, and cultivating a personal brand as they navigate their careers in the dynamic world of finance.
I believe in learning by doing and one of my specialties involves creating practical simulations that provide learners with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the role of a finance professional. We at MDA, strive to deliver valuable real-world insights, making them a cornerstone of every training program and experience we offer.
Get in touch with Noopur here:
DEBBIE HEARMAN
PRINCIPAL CONSULTANT
When I was younger I wanted to be a teacher, so naturally, I became an accountant. I trained at EY and then went to work at a large multi-national corporation. The call of the “classroom” was too strong, though! What drives me is utility. Being useful – to an individual, to a team, to an organisation. The questions I ask myself when designing and delivering training sessions are “how can I make this easier to grasp?”, “how can I make this more interesting?” and “how can I make this more useful?”.
We all have limited time and attention and we need to make best use of our resources. I see my role as that of a catalyst. If someone wants to develop in terms of their knowledge or skillset, let’s try to make that happen efficiently and effectively so that that person can get to where they want to go faster; achieve their own potential, and help organisations achieve their potential too. An effective training intervention is the one that makes a person better, whether that means more efficient, more accurate, more commercial, more focused, more creative, or more strategic.
Get in touch with Debbie here:
MARK TYSALL
DIRECTOR OF SIMULATIONS
As Leadership & Experiential Learning Consultant I feel privileged to be part of a talented team delivering leadership simulations and experiential learning activities. I’ve been working in L&D for many years and my passion is the design and delivery of experiential events that enable people to challenge and develop themselves to become better people and therefore better leaders. I discovered my passion for helping people to learn and develop during my time as an Outdoor Pursuits Facilitator, running activities which encouraged people to step outside their comfort zones, allowing themselves to grow. Over time, at MDA, we have applied and translated the benefits of these outdoor activities into an indoor environment, developing activities that retain the same challenges and development opportunities.
Prior to working in the L&D space, I trained as a Carpenter & Engineer. I use these skills to design and build the activities that make our leadership and professional development simulations like no others. Developing ourselves, becoming better people and leading people in the right way is core to my belief. By becoming better leaders, we become better people which is something I care deeply about.
Get in touch with Mark here:
OZ HUSSEIN
DIRECTOR
Hello! I’m Oz and one of the Directors here at MDA Training. I’ve pretty much worked at MDA Training since graduating way back in 90s. In my early days at MDA Training I supported the consultants, helping to design their slides and training materials. In those days, training was delivered on acetates – a far cry from the experiential training solutions we design for our clients today!! Having worked from the ground up, I’m privileged to have worked in a number of roles at MDA Training, each time growing my experience and expertise in corporate training.
My role at MDA Training is now quite varied and often I wear numerous hats in any given day. My favourite hat is client management where for some of our clients I’m their first port of call. I absolutely love working in partnership with our clients and drawing on our talented team to design world-class learning solutions. Genuinely, it’s what makes me tick! My other hats include overseeing the marketing at MDA Training and also the IT (IT being one of jobs I’ve never managed to lose from my remit – ha ha!!).
Get in touch with Oz here:
JAMES DIXON
LEARNING TECHNOLOGIST
At MDA Training, I’m responsible for steering the development of customised learning solutions. My role involves designing and implementing technology-driven educational tools and programmes, aiming to modernise traditional training methods with the latest tech innovations.
My skill set is diverse and comprehensive, including graphic and UX design, e-learning, web and app development, and videography. I’m also proficient in various AI tools and applications, which helps me create interactive, accessible and engaging learning experiences which cater to a diverse range of learning styles and preferences.
Beyond work, my passion for technology keeps me on a constant learning journey. This curiosity not only enriches my professional work but also keeps me motivated to continuously innovate and adapt in this ever-evolving field. I firmly believe in the power of evolution in training, a belief I live out both in my career and personal life.
Get in touch with James here:
CARL MEDLAND
PRINCIPAL CONSULTANT
My filmmaking background brings a unique dimension and ability in winning people’s hearts and minds – an essential skill when developing people and their professional skills. My audience ranges from new hires to senior managers. I proactively leverage technology in my learning solutions, whether this be in-person, virtually or hybrid. Learning by doing is central to my approach, creating practical learning experiences that are innovative and highly experiential. I’d like to think if Steven Spielberg did training it would look something like this, minus the spaceships.Dyslexia is my superpower which enables me to innovate utilising neurodiverse methods to ensure training is accessible for variable learning preferences. I consider myself a people’s person, and as an out professional, I like to role model and create visibility for LGBTQ+ communities. I do this in class and in my films which have won awards at film festivals for providing voices for underrepresented communities. In my spare time I mentor film students at Ravensbourne Film School, where I run workshops supporting newly skilled talent into rewarding careers. I champion inclusivity, diversity, and fairness in everything I do.
Get in touch with Carl here:
MANTE BALEVICIUTE
PROGRAMME MANAGER
Hiya my name is Mante, and I wear at least a couple of hats in MDA, being a senior programme manager at MDA Training and also a content creator. My role as a programme manager means I am often the pivot between our clients and our design, development, and delivery team. I manage the day-to-day relationship, logistics and administration for MDA’s largest clients, and have developed a core expertise in organising and coordinating large scale training events.
I also enjoy being part of the delivery team for those large scale events and regularly support the delivery of MDA’s leadership simulation which allows me to deepen client relationships and experience the unique solutions that we provide. It is this creativity, innovation, and variety in my role that I find so rewarding.
My passion outside of work is to travel and to challenge myself, both physically and intellectually, by experiencing as many different environments and cultures as I can. I care deeply about people and the environment, being most at home in the wilderness, although I always return to civilisation, at least I have up to now.
Get in touch with Mante here:
STUART HOPE
TRAINING CONSULTANT
I am a Training Consultant sharing knowledge and changing behaviours across financial services with a desire to create impactful experiential learning. My journey gives me a holistic understanding of how different roles contribute to the success of your business and demonstrates a desire for continuous development. As a former apprentice insurance broker, I took a path that combined hands-on experience with the pursuit of knowledge. While pursuing a bachelor’s degree in insurance, I navigated diverse roles, gaining a thorough understanding of the industry’s nuances. This included steering a small team, where I discovered immense fulfilment in guiding others to success.
Currently serving as a council member of the Insurance Institute of Reading, I dedicate my time to providing networking and learning opportunities that inspire and empower the next generation of industry leaders. Having completed a CII diploma post-graduation, I am currently pursuing an advanced diploma to deepen my expertise. My commitment to education also led me to undertake a second apprenticeship, attaining a Diploma in Education and Training, focusing on experiential learning for diverse audiences.
Get in touch with Stuart here:
TOM JONES
TRAINING CONSULTANT
I am a Training Consultant with a passion for driving individual performance and growth. I have experience in the Insurance Sector having worked in regional broking after leaving university. Like many others I fell into the insurance sector. I struggle to understand why this still seems to be the case, finding it to be an incredibly exciting and varying environment. I take pride in knowing that, through my job, I can help change attitudes and inspire others to find excitement and value in their work. I enjoy the freedom my role at MDA has given me to help shape, design and implement training programmes to the benefit of clients and professionals in the industry. My own excitable personality has relished delivering and designing our experiential simulation-based learning solutions.
I have always enjoyed teaching and training others, ever since my first part time job while at school as a swimming teacher. I have found value and joy in helping others achieve their goals and sharing my knowledge. I have an enquiring mind and find the world around me to be fascinating, I want to inspire that same virtuous learning in the individuals I am lucky enough to share my time with.
I have more recently been working in the Learning and Development sector since early 2020. I was able to play a key role in shaping the strategy and delivery of apprenticeships at a small training provider. Helping them, across the course of two years, to achieve an Outstanding OFSTED grade in their first full inspection. During this time, I was able to develop an incredibly detailed understanding of what is required for successful and well-rounded employees. I also developed exhaustive knowledge of the technical qualifications required for those working in the insurance sector.
Get in touch with Tom here:
TOM DEREGIBUS
SENIOR VIDEO PRODUCER
Hi there! I’m Tom and I’m a Videographer/Producer, creating Videos, Photos and Digital Training Simulations here at MDA Training.
Coming from a Filmmaking background, I love storytelling and bringing elements of cinema to the corporate world. Whether I’m producing a training event highlight video or a roleplay training simulation, I get immense satisfaction out of captivating and engaging audiences.
I’m also a technology enthusiast and I enjoy exploring new tools and ideas and with my team at MDA.
In my free time I enjoy wine tasting, filming music videos and practicing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, although, not necessarily in that order!
Get in touch with Tom here:
ROBYN COETZEE
TRAINING CONSULTANT
I am a training consultant at MDA Training and a proud member of the dynamic team since immigrating to the UK from South Africa in 2023. As a young woman in the finance industry, I understand the nuances of imposter syndrome and recognise the transformative power of knowledge. My role goes beyond the traditional classroom approach – I aim to not just supply participants with knowledge but to immerse them in the dynamic world of financial accounting.
When I’m not at the forefront of training sessions, I find joy in creating new content to bring an immersive experience to participants. Whether crafting a fresh slide deck or collaborating with the development team to build innovative online activities or simulations, I relish the creative process of finding new ways to enhance understanding. Together, we work harmoniously to infuse my financial accounting skills into immersive learning experiences that break free from the ordinary.
Grounded in my personal values – HAKE, representing Honesty, Accountability, Kindness, and Empathy – I bring an open and enthusiastic approach to our collective mission of redefining the educational landscape with MDA.
Get in touch with Robyn here:
RAJUL RAMAN
MARKETING CONSULTANT
My marketing journey started with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, and to broaden my skills, I completed my International Master in Business from SDA Bocconi School of Management in Italy.
At work, I wear multiple hats, ranging from managing SEO and performance marketing to social media and public relations. I’m also involved in organising global podcasts and occasionally step in as a training host. My role extends to conducting workshops for students, adding a diverse touch to my professional journey. My experience with various corporations enhanced my ability to offer innovative marketing solutions. I’ve had the pleasure of working across both B2B and B2C sectors at MDA Training, and with our B2C sister organisation, FMI Online, where we’ve successfully led students into the financial services sector
But there’s more to me than just marketing. Away from work, I take great joy in conducting philosophy lectures, helping individuals find purpose and add value to their communities. This mix of professional skill and personal passion keeps me grounded and inspires meaningful contributions to the world around me.
Get in touch with Rajul here:
SYRUS LOWE
ASSOCIATE TRAINER
I have worked in every corner of the economy as a facilitator, trainer and corporate role play actor. I have covered many Honss including Communicatiing with Confidence, Personal Impact, Diversity and Inclusion, Health and Safety and Inclusive Leadership.
My previous clients include the British Army, Deloitte, BMS Group, Gerald Eve, Public Health England, the Submarine Delivery Agency and The Telegraph.
I am also a RADA trained actor and have appeared in London’s West End in The Inheritance and Best Of Enemies, and on TV shows including, Strike, Treason, Avenue 5 and Netflix’s Treason. I am also the voice for Lars in the hit CBebbies show Go Jetters. In 2016 I created my Role Play Masterclass for Actors. This one-day workshop introduces actors to the world of corporate role-play.
Bloomsbury will publish my book, An Actors Guide to Corporate Role Play: the best side-job for actors in 2024. Qualifications : BA Hons Acting
Get in touch with Syrus here:
TIRTH SHAH
TECHNOLOGY CONSULTANT
Hello, I’m Tirth Shah, a Software Developer at MDA Training. I hold a degree in Computer Engineering from Shah And Anchor Kutchhi Engineering College.
I’m on a mission to propel MDA Training into the forefront of technological innovation, crafting state-of-the-art solutions that redefine excellence. My skills extend beyond traditional programming; I also love gaming consoles, where I merge my technical acumen with my enthusiasm for gaming.
Get in touch with Tirth here:
SANKET NITNAWARE
TECHNOLOGY CONSULTANT
Get in touch with Sanket here:
CLARE CALDERAN
ASSOCIATE TRAINER
Clare delivers on a wide range of MDA Training’s finance and banking programmes in London and New York. Her past assignments have included both technical training in a face-to-face environment and immersive simulation events for a number of leading global banks. Clare is an FCA and holds an honours degree in Engineering from Durham University. She has worked both as a practicing insolvency professional and a corporate broker but now specialises in training.
Get in touch with Clare here:
ROB DOUGHTY
ASSOCIATE TRAINER
Rob is an associate of MDA Training with over 30 years’ experience in professional skills and insurance sector training. A former director of MDA Training, he is a qualified accountant, with extensive experience of working across our client base. Rob has a breadth of commercial experience on which to draw upon when designing and delivering development solutions for our clients.
Get in touch with Rob here:
JUSTIN SANDERS
ASSOCIATE TRAINER
Justin, a former long-term director of MDA Training, is now a trusted associate of MDA Training. Justin helps deliver many of our asset management, investment banking and capital markets programmes for our global financial services clients. Justin has designed many of MDA Training’s interactive learning solutions and simulations, and is renowned for designing and delivering programmes that present complex ideas in a clear, everyday language that delegates can really understand and appreciate.
Get in touch with Justin here:
ADRIAN BROOKES
ASSOCIATE TRAINER
Adrian, a former long-term Director of MDA Training, is now an associate of the company. Adrian has been a trainer for over 30 years and has designed and delivered programmes throughout the world for clients in insurance, asset management, private wealth, corporate finance and also the corporate sector.
Get in touch with Adrian here:
PAUL NORTH
ASSOCIATE TRAINER
Paul is an associate of MDA Training and has over 25 years’ experience of working and training in the capital markets and derivatives industry. He was Head of Education at LIFFE, before leaving in 1998 to pursue a career in financial education and training. Paul has extensive training experience both in the UK and internationally, covering all the major aspects of financial markets. Paul has taught participants at most of the world’s leading investment banks, funds, regulators, software developers, exchanges, central counterparties and commodity houses.
Get in touch with Paul here:
ANTHONY CASSIDY
ASSOCIATE TRAINER
Anthony is an associate of MDA Training and specialises in delivering programmes on financial markets, particularly with a buy side perspective. Following a successful career in the banking and hedge fund sectors, Anthony moved into the training profession where he enjoys bringing his practical experience to life with his engaging training style. As a trainer Anthony has a focus on equity and derivative products along with risk management and portfolio management.
Get in touch with Anthony here:
Join Our Team
A Rich History And Growing Portfolio Of Services
MDA Training was established in 1988 by Professor Walter Reid, one of the founding faculty professors of The London Business School. MDA Training quickly earned a reputation for designing and delivering engaging training that was practical, commercially grounded and experiential. And four decades on, we still work by the founding values of Professor Reid and go from strength to strength, growing our expertise and constantly evolving our diverse and innovative mix of learning solutions.
Explore other aspects of the MDA Group below…
MDA Films
For over two decades, MDA Films has been a core element of the MDA Group, specialising in producing corporate videos. Our expert team, drawn from Advertising, Feature Filmmaking, and Corporate Training Design specialise in creating high-quality, engaging films for a variety of media projects including:
- Training and educational films
- Promotional and explainer videos
- Films for social media
- Case study films
- Internal comms videos
- Managing and videographing live streams.
Fmi Online
Fmi Online is MDA Training’s dedicated digital learning platform. All of the Fmi Online content has been designed by experts with 35+ years of experience training top financial institutions worldwide. Fmi makes world-class financial training accessible to aspiring professionals cost-effectively with online learning pathways tailored to match the skills demanded by leading employers.
With Fmi, the learning is self-led and accessible on-demand and includes many of MDA Training unique banking an asset management simulations. Fmi offers three core learning pathways:
- Asset Management Pathway
- Global Markets Pathway
- Investment Banking Pathway.
CCT Venues
MDA Training are pleased to partner with CCT Venues, a provider of perfectly tailored space to run your training in London. All CCT Venues training rooms are designed to exacting standards and high specifications, with excellent guest IT facilities and the latest AV equipment. All rooms are DDA compliant air conditioned, and the majority have floor to ceiling windows. CCT Venues is also renowned for its excellent food with menus prepared by an award-winning team of in-house chefs.
CCT Venues-Barbican is a five-storey venue with 20 rooms ideal for small-to-medium training events. The flexible range of rooms means this venue can suit groups from as few as four up to 150 people. CCT Venues’ Barbican is located next to Barbican Underground station.
CCT Venues-Smithfield is a unique venue located above the iconic Grade II listed Smithfield Market. This 10-room venue is capable of accomodating small meetings of 6 to conferences of up to 200. CCT Venues’ Smithfield is located close to Farringdon Train & Underground station and Barbican Underground station.
