PD Sessions @ Zoom: The Role of Mentorship in Professional Development: Bridging Generational Gaps and Inspiring Growth

Explore how mentorship can accelerate your career and deepen personal growth, fostering resilience, confidence, and genuine connection across generations. Drawing on empirical research and practical strategies, this session reveals how subtle, sometimes even mythical forms of guidance can shape turning points in our professional journeys.

We’ll unpack the twin pillars of mentoring, career and psychosocial support, and show how each contributes to job satisfaction, wellbeing, and long-term success. Real-world examples from research administration illustrate the transformative impact of effective mentoring relationships and offer actionable approaches you can adopt immediately in your own practice.

EVENT DETAILS: 

Date: Wednesday, 15 April 2026

Time: 12:00PM - 1:00PM AEST (Check your timezone here.)

Format: Online via Zoom

Zoom Access: Details provided in your confirmation email

SPEAKER(S): 

Floris van der Leest - University of the Sunshine Coast

With over 25 years in research management, Floris van der Leest has led teams, supported colleagues’ career growth, and strengthened professional capability across diverse institutions. An international award-winning leader and architect of VICRA, he pairs deep technical expertise with a long-standing commitment to mentoring emerging professionals. A regular presenter, Fellow of ARMS, and Distinguished Faculty of SRAI, Floris delivers development programs that build confidence, resilience, and leadership capacity. He is currently based at the University of the Sunshine Coast, Australia.

Help:

• To learn how to join a Zoom webinar click here.
• To learn about participant controls click here.
• If you need assistance with accessing Zoom at your office, please contact your organisation’s IT Support.
• We strongly recommend you test your ability to connect to Zoom prior to the session.

Questions:

• Contact the ARMS Executive Office ARMSAdmin@researchmanagement.org.au or +61 8 8201 5592.