Donal Prior
Donal is a highly accomplished global Learning & Development Executive and is a member of HPC’s Learning & Talent Consulting Team. He has a proven ability to drive strategic organisational performance through innovative learning experiences and talent development initiatives.
Experience
With a background in both corporate learning and development and independent consultancy, Donal offers a unique blend of strategic insight and practical expertise. He held multiple positions within Diageo, including HR Business Partner, HR Director, Global Capability Director and Global Head of Learner Experience—where he was responsible for shaping the learning experiences of a diverse global workforce across different functions and geographies.
Through these varied roles, Donal ensured that learning and development contributed to and influenced improved performance at individual, team and organisational levels. He defined and executed global, performance-focused learning strategies, leveraging technology and advanced people development methodologies.
HPC Work
Donal is fully focused on elevating the skills, credibility and influence of the learning function—ensuring it delivers tangible value across the organisation. He works collaboratively with L&D leaders to refine strategic direction, upskill teams and embed new ways of working. Drawing on extensive experience, Donal partners with clients to help them challenge assumptions, identify gaps and rethink approaches to complex talent challenges.
His HPC work includes:
– Shaping future-focused learning agendas aligned with business priorities
– Enhancing programme design through innovative approaches
– Co-creating solutions that drive measurable business outcomes
– Building wider capability within the L&D team
– Enabling high-performing learning functions
Qualifications
MSc in Strategic HRM – Sheffield Hallam University
Professional Diploma in Coaching & Mentoring (Distinction) – Kingstown College
Oxford Leading Sustainable Corporations Programme – Saïd Business School, University of Oxford
National Diploma in Personnel Management (Distinction) – CIPD
He is a Chartered Fellow of the CIPD and is also and a member of the EMCC.
Insights
“By placing learning at the heart of their culture, organisations become more agile, adaptive, and innovative – enhancing their capacity to sense and respond to rapidly changing customer needs. This is why I am passionate about working with leaders, managers, and teams to unlock the transformative potential of learning – as a growth enabler, and performance accelerator.”
We think differently
We push the boundaries for our clients by challenging mindsets and offering new ways of thinking. We’ll expand your thinking and offer a practical, pragmatic and honest approach to the design phase. We do this with one purpose in mind; to achieve measurable and lasting results.
Our Solutions
Enabling leaders to develop an authentic leadership style, which inspires and motivates.
Building individual manager self-confidence and an ability to manage a team.
High-impact programmes that accelerate graduate development and build long-term career paths.
Developing the next generation of leaders as they make the transition to a more senior role.
Shorter programmes designed to meet specific individual and team needs across organisations.
An experienced panel of accredited coaches who support the development of individual performance.
Enabling the true power of senior teams through to achieve collective performance and growth.
As an accredited partner, we integrate this psychometric profiling tool into our solutions.
We partner with learning leaders and their teams to enhance their strategy, skills, and impact.
Ready to discuss how a partnership with HPC can advance your business?