
Vanessa Mendao
@vanessamendao
I design practical digital learning that turns complex knowledge into measurable learner performance.
What I'm looking for
I've designed learning experiences for Multiverse, Bournemouth University, and Aula, translating complex academic, technical, and commercial topics into practical courses, workshops, and resources.
At Multiverse, I led the University of Cambridge Data Insights for Business Decisions cohort, maintaining NPS above 80 and achieving top-tier coach expertise scores. I also supported 120 apprentices across Kier, DFS, and Capital One, delivering a 96% distinction rate.
At Bournemouth University, I helped drive a university-wide digital transformation that lifted online seminar attendance by 50% for 3,500 students. I co-designed online and blended courses with faculty and improved Brightspace adoption through targeted training.
Most recently, I've run a content strategy and ghostwriting practice for founders and C-suite leaders. I'm now returning to in-house learning and development, bringing stronger storytelling, audience insight, and content strategy to instructional design.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
Founder and Chief Storyteller
Dual Lens
Nov 2025 - Present (10 months)
Built a boutique content strategy and ghostwriting practice for founders and C-suite leaders, auditing positioning and designing content strategies aligned to client goals. Wrote posts, articles, and thought leadership, translating complex ideas into clear, accessible language.
Directed the inaugural University of Cambridge 'Data Insights for Business Decisions' cohort, achieving NPS consistently above 80 and coach expertise scores of 5.8/6. Delivered a 100% distinction rate across Portfolio Discussion and Scenario Demonstrations for the Capital One UK cohort, exceeding company benchmarks.
Learning Technologist
Bournemouth University
Feb 2021 - May 2022 (1 year 3 months)
Spearheaded a university-wide digital transformation initiative that increased PGCert online seminar attendance by 50%, improving the learning experience for 3,500 students and raising faculty satisfaction by 80%. Partnered with 12 faculty members to co-design 5 online and blended learning courses, achieving an average student satisfaction rating of 4.0/5.
Designed and delivered 17 online courses for 5 UK universities during a critical period of pandemic-driven digital transition, supporting 200+ learners. Led a cross-functional team of 16 to develop accessible, engaging course content under significant time and resource pressure.
Communications Strategist
She Loves Data
Jan 2016 - Jan 2020 (4 years)
Developed data-driven communications strategy reaching 5,500 individuals and delivered data literacy training to 75 peers and learners.
Senior Administrative Officer
University of Surrey
Jan 2013 - Jan 2015 (2 years)
Led a 10-person team through a faculty restructure and developed academic delivery policies across 2 faculties.
Director of Communications
Vanessa Mendao – Writing Services
Jan 2005 - Jan 2013 (8 years)
Managed communications across 18 concurrent projects with 98% on-time delivery.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias
Bachelor's Degree, Communication, Journalism and Related Programs
Bachelor's degree in Communication, Journalism and Related Programs.
Powerform
Postgraduate Certificate, General Education
Postgraduate Certificate in General Education (PGCE).
Digital Transformation Specialist
Certification, Digital Transformation
Certification in Digital Transformation Specialist.
Learning Design Thinking
Certification, Learning Design
Certification in Learning Design Thinking.
Coaching Virtually
Certification, Coaching
Certification in Coaching Virtually.
Availability
Location
Authorized to work in
Salary expectations
Social media
Skills
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