I am a dynamic and globally experienced training leader with a passion for health, education, and human performance. I design and deliver transformational learning experiences that empower people, inspire action, and elevate brands. I blend creative content design, strategic communication, and engaging presentation to drive meaningful growth and connection. Grounded in science, wellness, and adult education, I bring credibility and authenticity to every learning experience — whether in the classroom, on stage, or online. I thrive on collaborating across functions to elevate onboarding, product knowledge, and brand advocacy, and I’ve led global training programs that adapt to diverse markets and audiences.

Debbie Aitken (Baird)

5.0 (1 review)

I am a dynamic and globally experienced training leader with a passion for health, education, and human performance. I design and deliver transformational learning experiences that empower people, inspire action, and elevate brands. I blend creative content design, strategic communication, and engaging presentation to drive meaningful growth and connection. Grounded in science, wellness, and adult education, I bring credibility and authenticity to every learning experience — whether in the classroom, on stage, or online. I thrive on collaborating across functions to elevate onboarding, product knowledge, and brand advocacy, and I’ve led global training programs that adapt to diverse markets and audiences.

Available to hire

I am a dynamic and globally experienced training leader with a passion for health, education, and human performance. I design and deliver transformational learning experiences that empower people, inspire action, and elevate brands. I blend creative content design, strategic communication, and engaging presentation to drive meaningful growth and connection.

Grounded in science, wellness, and adult education, I bring credibility and authenticity to every learning experience — whether in the classroom, on stage, or online. I thrive on collaborating across functions to elevate onboarding, product knowledge, and brand advocacy, and I’ve led global training programs that adapt to diverse markets and audiences.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Regional Training Director – Americas, Europe, ANZ at USANA Health Sciences
January 1, 2020 - Present
Lead the global training strategy across multiple markets, creating and delivering innovative learning content that drives engagement, compliance, and performance. Design and deliver interactive training for health, nutrition and skincare portfolios (100+ products). Partner cross-functionally with Legal and Regulatory teams to ensure compliant delivery. Budget planning and event facilitation for global and regional conferences. Created and launched certification programs now adopted globally. Delivered training to audiences from 500 to 5,000.
Business & Regional Training Director – ANZ at USANA Health Sciences
January 1, 2018 - January 1, 2020
Directed NZ operations, sales strategy, and learning initiatives across the region. Managed and trained 10+ staff, supported over 3,000 Associates and customers. Built brand partnerships with elite teams like One NZ Warriors and Basketball NZ. Spearheaded product activations, live events, and recognition seminars.
Area Manager – NZ at Weight Watchers ANZ
January 1, 2015 - January 1, 2018
Recruited, trained, and led a team of 60+ staff across the country. Boosted engagement through events, member programs, and personalised coaching. Developed mobile 1:1 support tools to enhance member outcomes. 94% member retention achieved and maintained.
National Programme Manager / Lecturer at New Zealand Career College (NZCC)
January 1, 2011 - January 1, 2015
Led academic program development and staff recruitment. Designed curriculum, delivered lectures, and assessed student work in health sciences. Served on Academic and Exam Boards. Won “Tutor of the Year” in 2012 for outstanding contribution to student success.
Owner / Operator at Inside Out Pilates
January 1, 2008 - January 1, 2018
Delivered private and group fitness and wellbeing training. Raised over $25,000 through local fundraising initiatives. Created a loyal client base through marketing, education, and community outreach.
Tutor / Lecturer – Personal Training at NZ Institute of Health & Fitness
January 1, 2008 - January 1, 2011
Delivered national fitness qualifications in both group and individual settings. Designed course content and performed student assessments.
PE Teacher / Fitness Manager at ACG
January 1, 2001 - January 1, 2004
Implemented physical education programs and managed fitness facilities, contributing to student health outcomes.
Programs Coordinator at ECB Leisure Centre
January 1, 1998 - January 1, 2004
Coordinated sport and recreation programs and activities, supporting community engagement and fitness initiatives.
USANA Business & Regional Training Director – ANZ at USANA Health Sciences
January 1, 2018 - January 1, 2020
Directed NZ operations, sales strategy, and learning initiatives across the ANZ region. Managed and trained 10+ staff, supporting over 3,000 Associates and customers. Built brand partnerships with elite teams like One NZ Warriors and Basketball NZ. Spearheaded product activations, live events, and recognition seminars.
Area Manager at Weight Watchers ANZ
January 1, 2015 - January 1, 2018
Recruited, trained, and led a team of 60+ staff across the country. Boosted engagement through events, member programs, and personalised coaching. Developed mobile 1:1 support tools to enhance member outcomes. Achieved 94% member retention and maintained it.
Area Manager at NZ Weight Watchers ANZ
January 1, 2015 - January 1, 2018
Recruited, trained, and led a team of 60+ staff across the country. Boosted engagement through events, member programs, and personalised coaching. Developed mobile 1:1 support tools to enhance member outcomes. 94% member retention achieved and maintained.

Education

Postgraduate Diploma in Adult Education at Massey University
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Bachelor of Health Science at Charles Sturt University
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Bachelor of Sport and Recreation at AUT
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Diplomas in Naturopathy & Herbal Medicine at NMHNZ Registered
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Certificate in Nutrition & Personal Training at AUT (NZ REP S Registered)
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Certified Pilates Instructor – Mat & Reformer at FISAF Registered
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Postgraduate Diploma in Adult Education at Massey University
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Bachelor of Health Science at Charles Sturt University
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Bachelor of Sport and Recreation at AUT
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Postgraduate Diploma in Adult Education at Massey University
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Bachelor of Health Science at Charles Sturt University
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Bachelor of Sport and Recreation at AUT
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Diploma in Naturopathy & Herbal Medicine at NMHNZ Registered
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Holistic Health Practitioner at CHEK
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Certificate in Nutrition & Personal Training at AUT (NZ REP S Registered)
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Certified Pilates Instructor – Mat & Reformer at FISAF Registered
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026

Qualifications

Holistic Health Practitioner (CHEK)
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
First Aid Certificate
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Postgraduate Diploma in Adult Education
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Bachelor of Health Science
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Bachelor of Sport and Recreation
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Diplomas in Naturopathy & Herbal Medicine
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Holistic Health Practitioner (CHEK)
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Certificate in Nutrition & Personal Training
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Certified Pilates Instructor – Mat & Reformer
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Diploma in Naturopathy & Herbal Medicine
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Holistic Health Practitioner (CHEK)
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Certificate in Nutrition & Personal Training
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
Certified Pilates Instructor – Mat & Reformer (FISAF Registered)
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
First Aid Certificate
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
First Aid Certificate
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026
First Aid Certificate
January 11, 2030 - January 15, 2026

Industry Experience

Healthcare, Education, Professional Services, Media & Entertainment, Other, Consumer Goods, Travel & Hospitality, Retail
    paper Lecturer at the South Sydney Rabbitohs Institute of Sports Management

    Training the South Sydney Rabbitohs Institute of Sports Management (RISM), partnering with TAFE NSW to deliver nationally recognised dual diplomas, like the Diploma of Leadership & Management and Diploma of Sport Management, blending study with hands-on experience at the club for careers in sports, fitness, and business.