Learning & Development Manager in Guildford

Learning & Development Manager in Guildford

Guildford Full-Time 51750 - 63250 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
Ashley Kate HR

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the development of innovative learning strategies to enhance talent and career progression.
  • Company: Join a respected law firm prioritising Learning & Development.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, generous leave, and private health cover.
  • Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
  • Why this job: Shape the future of talent development in a dynamic legal environment.
  • Qualifications: Experience in L&D within legal or professional services, with strong stakeholder management skills.

The predicted salary is between 51750 - 63250 £ per year.

Guildford | Hybrid Working (4 Days On-Site)

Are you an experienced Learning & Development professional with a background in the legal sector?

Do you have the expertise to build and embed a modern L&D strategy that supports business growth, develops talent, and strengthens career progression?

We are partnering with a well-established and highly respected law firm to recruit a Learning & Development Manager.

This is a newly enhanced role, offering the opportunity to shape and drive the firm's people development agenda at an exciting stage of its evolution.

This position will suit someone who understands the regulatory environment within legal services and can translate learning initiatives into measurable business outcomes.

The Opportunity

Reporting into the HR leadership team, you will take ownership of the firm's Learning & Development strategy, ensuring colleagues at all levels have access to high-quality development opportunities that support both individual growth and business objectives.

You will play a key role in creating clear career pathways, enhancing capability frameworks, supporting succession planning, and embedding a culture of continuous learning across the organisation.

This is a highly visible role with significant scope to influence and make a lasting impact.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement the firm's Learning & Development strategy.
  • Conduct comprehensive Training Needs Analysis (TNA) across all business areas.
  • Design and embed competency frameworks aligned to performance and development objectives.
  • Support the implementation of a new performance review framework linked to competencies and career progression.
  • Create clear career pathways and succession planning processes.
  • Partner with business leaders to identify capability gaps and development solutions.
  • Support and provide recommendations to the firm's Training Committee.
  • Lead the design and delivery of learning programmes across both legal and business support functions.
  • Develop blended learning solutions, including digital and online learning resources.
  • Work closely with HR, Compliance and IT teams to enhance learning infrastructure and delivery.
  • Support trainee development programmes and wider talent initiatives.
  • Ensure learning activities align with SRA requirements and emerging best practice around supervision and competence.

About You

We are keen to speak with Learning & Development professionals who have experience within a law firm or professional services environment. You will bring:

  • Proven experience in a Learning & Development Manager or Senior L&D role.
  • Strong understanding of SRA regulations, lawyer competency requirements and professional development frameworks.
  • Experience designing competency frameworks and career development pathways.
  • Expertise in Training Needs Analysis and organisational capability development.
  • Experience supporting performance management and succession planning initiatives.
  • Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills.
  • The ability to move strategically while remaining hands-on in delivery.
  • A passion for creating engaging and meaningful learning experiences.

What's on Offer?

  • Hybrid working with 4 days on-site and 1 day from home
  • 25 days annual leave plus the option to buy or sell up to 5 additional days
  • Private BUPA cover for employees, with the option to add family members
  • Electric Vehicle salary sacrifice scheme
  • Life Assurance (4x salary)
  • Enhanced maternity leave with 6 months' full pay
  • Enhanced paternity leave with 3 weeks' full pay

This is an excellent opportunity to join a successful and ambitious legal practice where Learning & Development is a genuine strategic priority and where you can shape the future of talent development across the business.

To apply or find out more, please contact us for a confidential discussion.

About Us

We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community.

In line with our Diversity and Inclusion policy, we welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.

As a Disability Confident Employer, and part of the Nicholas Associates Group, we are committed to supporting candidates with disabilities, and we're happy to discuss flexible working options.

We are committed to protecting the privacy of all our candidates and clients.

If you choose to apply, your information will be processed in accordance with the Nicholas Associates Group of companies Privacy Notice.

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Learning & Development Manager in Guildford employer: Ashley Kate HR

Ashley Kate HR is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and development of its employees, offering a dynamic work culture where innovation and collaboration thrive. With a strong focus on talent development, you will have access to comprehensive training programs and opportunities for career advancement, all while working in a supportive environment that values your contributions. Located across the UK, our commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace makes us a standout choice for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.

Ashley Kate HR

Contact Details:

Ashley Kate HR Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Learning & Development Manager in Guildford

Join HR Networks

Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!

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We think you need these skills to ace Learning & Development Manager in Guildford

Learning & Development Strategy
Training Needs Analysis (TNA)
Competency Framework Design
Performance Management
Succession Planning
Stakeholder Management
Influencing Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at Ashley Kate HR. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.

Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to Ashley Kate HR and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.

Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at Ashley Kate HR. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.

Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Ashley Kate HR's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.

How to prepare for a job interview at Ashley Kate HR

Brush Up on HR Best Practices

As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with Ashley Kate HR.

Know Your Recruitment Tools

Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!

Highlight Your People Skills

A full-time HR role at Ashley Kate HR will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.

Stay Current with HR Trends

Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact Ashley Kate HR and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.