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- Tasks: Lead the Training & Development function, shaping strategies to attract and develop talent.
- Company: Join West Midlands Trains, delivering 1,300 journeys daily for over 60 million passengers a year.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, free train travel, retail discounts, and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Be a key player in fostering a culture of change and leadership within a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: CIPD member or equivalent experience in HR/Learning & Development management required.
- Other info: Applications from diverse backgrounds are encouraged; apply early as the advert may close sooner.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
As part of the Transport UK Group, West Midlands Trains delivers around 1,300 train journeys a day, for more than 60 million passengers a year, across our two brands – West Midlands Railway and London Northwestern Railway.
We are committed to delivering a safe and reliable train service, by investing in our fleet of trains, stations and employees. As part of this investment, we are looking to recruit a Head of Talent Development to work on a full-time, permanent basis based in Birmingham.
What does the job involve?
- To provide senior leadership, vision and drive to the Training & Development function for West Midlands Trains, with accountability to develop and implement the Training & Development Strategy for WMT with an integrated approach to attracting talent and delivery of professional development, ensuring its alignment to overall business strategy and operational requirements.
- Lead in the delivery of an accredited Leadership Development programme which supports organisational development whilst maximising the contribution of leaders and colleagues at all levels and embedding a culture of change.
- Work with industry colleagues to deliver a collaborative approach to attract, embrace and positively promote all talent, acting as an ambassador of strategies and solutions which support West Midlands Trains in attracting and developing high performing and diverse candidates.
What skills and experience do I need to do the job?
- Member of CIPD as Fellow or Chartered member, or equivalent professional qualification, and/or substantial experience in HR/Learning & Development management or relevant discipline.
- Experienced and highly credible leader with people and leadership skills gained at a senior level, with the ability to lead, develop and motivate a team to deliver results.
- Strategic leadership in successful implementation of business priorities.
- Experience of leading change through a planned approach incorporating best practice systems and tools.
- An in-depth understanding of the impact that Learning & Development can make on organisational culture and performance.
- Evidence of successful delivery within a dynamic and challenging unionised environment.
- Successfully operating within complex working environments and delivering through a matrix of diverse relationships.
What are the salary and benefits?
- Competitive dependant on experience.
- Defined Benefit pension – one of the best in the UK.
- Free travel on all our trains and those of other train companies within our parent group company – for you, your partner and any dependent children.
- 75% off all other train company travel tickets.
- Retail discounts.
- Career development opportunities.
Due to the volume of applications we receive, the advert may close earlier than the published closing date. Please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid missing out.
As an inclusive employer, we welcome applications from all backgrounds and ensure no-one receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender, race/ethnicity, religion, belief and sexual orientation.
Applications will be considered from colleagues with 6 months experience, after completion of their probationary period and a full check of absence and disciplinary records.
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Head of Talent Development employer: London Northwestern Railway
Contact Detail:
London Northwestern Railway Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Talent Development
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the latest trends in Learning & Development, especially those that align with the transport sector. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your strategic vision during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the HR and Learning & Development fields, particularly those who have experience in unionized environments. This can provide you with insights and connections that may be beneficial for your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led change initiatives in previous roles. Highlighting your experience in implementing best practices will showcase your capability to drive results.
✨Tip Number 4
Research West Midlands Trains' current Training & Development strategies and think about how you can contribute to their goals. Tailoring your approach to their specific needs will make you stand out as a candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Talent Development
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Head of Talent Development position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, and think about how your experience aligns with these.
Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to highlight relevant experience in HR and Learning & Development management. Emphasize your leadership skills and any strategic initiatives you've led that align with the company's goals.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for talent development and your understanding of the transport industry. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully implemented training strategies or led change in previous roles.
Highlight Your Qualifications: Make sure to clearly state your CIPD membership status or equivalent qualifications in your application. If you have substantial experience in a unionized environment, be sure to mention this as it is particularly relevant to the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at London Northwestern Railway
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a candidate for the Head of Talent Development, it's crucial to highlight your leadership experience. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully led teams and implemented training programs in previous roles, especially in dynamic environments.
✨Align with Business Strategy
Demonstrate your understanding of how Learning & Development aligns with overall business strategy. Be ready to discuss how you can integrate talent development initiatives that support West Midlands Trains' operational requirements and goals.
✨Emphasize Change Management Skills
Given the emphasis on leading change, prepare to discuss your experience with change management. Share examples of how you've effectively managed transitions and fostered a culture of adaptability within your teams.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Discussions
Since collaboration is key in this role, think about how you've worked with industry colleagues or other departments to achieve common goals. Be prepared to discuss strategies you've used to attract and develop diverse talent.
