Spotlight: Sue Alder, CDI's Head of Professional Development and Standards

Sue Alder's career reinvention at the Career Development Institute (CDI) embodies the same principles that she champions for the CDI and its members: growth, reinvention and transformation 

As Sue steps into her role as Head of Professional Development and Standards, she is living proof that continuous professional development (CPD) is not just a requirement, but a catalyst for growth at any stage of one's career. In her new role, she will lead a transformation at CDI – evolving CPD in the career sector, tackling workforce challenges and embracing innovative technologies. 

Sue joined the CDI after nearly two decades in senior career development roles in further education. Prior to her appointment, she had already spent three years as Professional Training Manager for the CDI, during which time she has been creating CPD programmes for CDI members and careers industry professionals. In her new role she will lead, develop and promote these programmes from a more strategic viewpoint, with an ambitious vision to grow and evolve their reach and impact 

A Vision for Transforming Professional Development  

The CDI, the UK's professional body for the career development sector, is founded on the core principles enshrined in the CDI's Code of Ethics - including equity, diversity and inclusion, accountability, autonomy, confidentiality, competence and above all, professionalism. At the heart of all these is a commitment to CPD. For Sue, CPD is not just about individual growth; it is about transforming the entire profession to meet the demands of an ever-evolving world of work.  

‘In any area of life, we’re always either growing or shrinking,’ says Sue. ‘That’s why CPD is so crucial!’ 

Looking ahead, Sue sees exciting trends on the horizon for career development: addressing practitioner shortages through government initiatives; recruiting dynamic new talent into the sector, and harnessing technology like AI to open up global opportunities for career professionals. 

Sue’s vision for transformation includes:  

Expanding Training Opportunities: Introducing more accredited qualifications tailored to specialist roles (e.g., for those working in niche sectors) and creating a 12-month CPD programme shaped by member feedback.  

Addressing Sector Challenges: Tackling practitioner shortages through government initiatives and recruiting dynamic new talent into the sector.  

Leveraging Technology: Harnessing tools like AI and e-learning platforms to make training more accessible and globally relevant. 

‘What excites me most about this new chapter isn’t just shaping careers – it’s changing lives. The fact that you can make a difference – that people’s lives can be transformed by having the right guidance and support – this is what drives me,’ explains Sue.  

Innovating CPD Delivery 

For Sue and the CDI, CPD is a vital tool that ensures career development practitioners remain relevant in an era of rapid technological and economic change. ‘We live in an era where staying current with industry trends isn’t optional – it’s essential,’ says Sue. ‘CPD enables professionals to achieve their goals while maintaining high standards of service for their clients.’  

Sue’s plans include regularly updated training programmes that reflect emerging trends, more online and face-to-face CPD opportunities led by expert trainers, and alignment with school and college calendars to support key events like National Careers Week and Black History Month. These initiatives aim to modernize how CPD is delivered, while making it more accessible to practitioners across the UK.  

‘For the CDI, I think CPD is like the writing you find in a stick of seaside rock – it’s woven all the way through everything we do,’ explains Sue. ‘As practitioners enhance their skills through CPD, they become better equipped to empower their clients. And this focus on continuous learning reflects our belief in the transformative power of career guidance.’  

Addressing Sector-Wide Challenges 

Sue also recognises broader challenges facing the career development sector; which as well as facing practitioner shortages is also grappling with huge shifts in the global labour market, driven by automation and evolving skill demands. By working with government initiatives to recruit new talent into career development roles and pioneering AI-driven training, she aims to create a new era where CPDs are not only equipped to support and empower individuals and businesses in today’s workforce, but agile enough to navigate the uncertain rapidly shifting career landscapes of tomorrow. Ensuring CPDs have access to cutting-edge training resources, tools and support is a key part of ensuring they are adaptable and resilient. 

The thing I love about CPD is how it opens doors,’ says Sue. ‘In a field dedicated to helping others navigate their careers, practitioners who engage in CPD set a powerful example of lifelong learning and adaptability.’  

A Track Record of Success 

Sue brings a strong track record of success to her new role. From developing bespoke training programmes in Northern Ireland, to increasing qualification completion rates across CDI offerings, her leadership has already delivered tangible results. Under her guidance as Professional Training Manager, the CDI now delivers the majority of all Careers Leader programmes on behalf of the Careers & Enterprise Company – a testament to her ability to drive impactful change. 

A Bold Vision for Growth 

As Sue steps into this pivotal role at the CDI, she brings not only expertise but also a fresh perspective on reinvention – for herself and for those she serves. Her message is clear: whether you're starting out or starting over, there's always room to grow. And with Sue Alder at the helm of professional development at CDI, growth is exactly what members can expect – both for themselves and for the sector as a whole.

Sue's Career Tips At A Glance

If you could give one 'career survival tip' to someone entering the workforce today, what would it be? 

"Stay curious and never stop learning." The world of work is changing faster than ever, with new technologies and industries constantly emerging. The most resilient professionals keep learning—whether through formal training, mentorship, or simply asking questions. Flexibility and adaptability will keep you employable, regardless of your career path. 

What's one misconception people have about career development that you'd like to dispel? 

"That careers follow a straight, upward path." Many people still believe in the myth of the linear career ladder. In reality, careers today are much like climbing walls—full of sideways moves, unexpected detours, and personal pivots. Every experience can be valuable, and ‘squiggly’ careers often lead to richer, more fulfilling outcomes than rigid paths. 

What is the most important skill that people should be developing now, to be ready for the future of work? 

"The ability to learn, unlearn and relearn." Technical skills will keep evolving as automation, AI, and shifting markets reshape industries. But the meta-skill—the skill that underpins all others—is the ability to learn. Being open to change, reflective about your progress, and proactive in acquiring new capabilities will futureproof your career more than any single tool or qualification.