Training, Development and Apprenticeships

With a career in the leisure industry that began at the age of 18 as a Lifeguard and Swimming Teacher, Ella Gosden has built extensive expertise in learning, development and workforce growth. After joining GLL through its Graduate Programme, she progressed through a variety of operational and people development roles, driven by a passion for creating meaningful career pathways and helping individuals achieve their full potential.

As Head of Learning and Organisational Development, Ella provides strategic leadership across talent development, apprenticeships, digital learning, organisational development and workforce capability. She holds a CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Strategic Learning & Development and is a strong advocate for lifelong learning, believing that investing in people is fundamental to organisational success and employee engagement.

Ella is particularly passionate about developing careers within the leisure sector and has championed apprenticeships as an accessible and effective route for attracting, developing and retaining talent. In addition to her organisational responsibilities, she served as Chair of a Trailblazer Group, working collaboratively with employers and sector partners to shape apprenticeship standards and ensure they meet the evolving needs of both learners and employers. Through her leadership, Ella continues to promote professional development, social mobility and career progression opportunities across the sector.