Cat Ashby-Guest
Laboratory Training Manager
Cat Ashby-Guest joined the Clinical Trial Service Unit & Epidemiological Studies Unit (CTSU) in 2008 and is the Training and Development Manager for the Wolfson Laboratories.
Cat leads the strategic development, implementation and coordination of training across the laboratory, ensuring the competence and ongoing professional development of approximately 40 technical and research staff. She oversees training and performance monitoring to support compliance with the laboratories' UKAS accreditation (ISO 17025:2017; No. 2799) and also contributes to training initiatives across the wider department.
As a member of the Wolfson Laboratories Senior Management Team, Cat plays a key strategic role in developing learning and development opportunities for laboratory staff. Her work includes introducing the IBMS Certificate of Competence programme, establishing partnerships with universities to expand apprenticeship opportunities, and embedding career development pathways to support workforce growth and retention.
Cat is committed to advancing professional development and inclusive practice across the department. She supports wider departmental initiatives, including Athena Swan, and co-leads the Professional and Support Staff Working Group, helping to promote an inclusive and supportive environment for professional services and technical staff.
Cat has completed postgraduate study in Managing Learning and Development in Healthcare as part of an MSc programme and holds a CMI Level 3 Certificate in First Line Management. She is also a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA), recognising her leadership and sustained impact in learning, teaching and professional development.