Derek Mars
About Derek Mars
Derek Mars is an Organisational Development and Learning Manager at Harley-Davidson Motor Company, specializing in international markets. He has extensive experience in leadership development and learning strategies, having held various roles in organizations such as Bedford College, Jardine Motors Group, and Vertu.
Current Role at Harley-Davidson
Derek Mars serves as the Organisational Development and Learning Manager for International Markets at Harley-Davidson Motor Company. He has held this position since 2020, working remotely from the United Kingdom. In this role, he leads the implementation and evaluation of learning programs aimed at enhancing the sales effectiveness of new and existing field market employees. He collaborates closely with senior leaders and cross-functional teams to identify and address performance barriers.
Previous Experience in Learning and Development
Derek Mars has extensive experience in the field of Learning and Development. He previously worked at Vertu as the Global Head of Sales Training from 2003 to 2007. He also held the position of Learning & Development Business Partner at Travis Perkins for one year in 2014-2015. His role at infinite Group as Training Manager for Sony UK lasted for 11 months in 2012-2013. Additionally, he was the Group Training Manager at Jardine Motors Group from 2000 to 2003 and served as the UK Training Manager at Autobytel from 1998 to 2000.
Educational Background
Derek Mars studied at Northumbria University, where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Economics from 1979 to 1982. Prior to that, he attended Friends School Great Ayton from 1977 to 1979. His educational background provides a foundation for his extensive career in organisational development and learning.
Expertise in Leadership and Change Management
Derek Mars possesses extensive expertise in designing and executing Learning and Development strategies focused on Leadership, Consultancy Skills, Coaching Skills, Sales Development, and Change Management. He plays a key role in improving the effectiveness and efficiency of learning processes and infrastructure in collaboration with Human Resources, ensuring that training initiatives align with organizational goals.
Collaboration with International Leadership Teams
In his current role, Derek Mars works directly with the US and International Leadership Teams to develop world-class teams through strategic learning initiatives. His collaboration with senior leaders and cross-functional teams is essential for identifying and addressing performance barriers, thereby enhancing overall organizational effectiveness.