Head of learning & development
Learning and development is always a popular area of the HR jobs market. But what does a head of learning and development role involve? Read on to find out.
Learning and development roles are popular
These jobs are very popular but are also relatively rare. Part of the reason for this is the nature of the job – not every organisation will have a Head of Learning and Development. The exception to this is often in banking and professional services industries.
Development strategy
A head of learning and development is often seen internally as someone who delivers training – but this is rarely the case in reality. Typically, professionals in this role will instead engage external vendors or have a team responsible for this. Instead, a head of learning and development is normally responsible for devising an overall development strategy for a company and its employees, and for being able to show that there will be a commercial return on any investment made.
You will also need significant experience in a senior development role and of servicing a senior client base.
As head of learning and development, you would report to the HR director and would be expected to influence the board and senior managers at all levels to adopt and support effective approaches to learning and development. You will also be expected to be involved in succession planning and to support talent management.
Experience you’ll need
You’ll need a clear specialist background in learning and development. You will also need significant experience in a senior development role and of servicing a senior client base. Most clients want specific industry experience.
Day-to-day responsibilities
This is a management and strategic role so most of the responsibilities you will have are typical for someone at this level. You’ll be required to meet with heads of business on a regular basis and manage a team. You’ll also need to liaise with senior line management and senior HR figures to ensure the overall learning and development approach is in line with the broader business strategy. Overall, it is a very high profile role within a business.
Related content
View AllLove them or hate them, an appraisal is something you are likely to have to take part in many times throughout your career. For some professionals, they instil a feeling of dread. However, if you are well prepared and your line manager is engaged with the process, they can be a useful opportunity to
Read MoreSmall talent pools, limited hiring budgets and restricted training resources often motivate employers to present counter-offers to valuable employees who are about to resign. These could be in the form of pay raises, bonuses or promotions. Enhanced financial remuneration is frequently accompanied by
Read MoreListing your defining strengths, attributes and interests via a personal brand statement has a plethora of benefits. Right from acting as a magnet which attracts employment opportunities to holding the potential for self-discovery, a stellar personal brand statement has become a key tool for any pro
Read More