Head of Talent Development in Bristol

We are seeking a Head of Talent Development to lead and deliver the firm’s talent development strategy, ensuring our people have the skills, experience and support needed to succeed as we continue to grow and transform. This senior leadership role combines strategic direction with operational delivery across three core areas: Apprenticeships and Early Careers, Workday Learning, and wider firm capability development. It plays a critical role in enabling long-term talent capability, supporting business performance, and embedding a culture of continuous learning across the firm. The role sits within our People function and is key to aligning learning, development and career progression with firm-wide strategic priorities. You will lead a high-performing team, oversee governance and compliance, and ensure development activity delivers measurable value to the organisation.

Responsibilities

• Apprenticeships & Early Careers: Lead and deliver the firm’s apprenticeship and early careers programmes (c.200 apprentices); oversee end-to-end delivery including induction, learning design, progress tracking and completion; ensure compliance with ESFA funding rules, Ofsted expectations and internal governance requirements; work closely with Finance on levy utilisation, forecasting, reconciliations and audit readiness; oversee safeguarding arrangements in partnership with designated safeguarding leads; lead ongoing development of the apprenticeship model in line with internal and external change; manage and develop apprenticeship leads and support teams.
• Workday Learning: Own and continuously develop the Workday Learning platform; ensure effective governance, reporting and data integrity; enhance user experience and integration with wider HR, performance and talent processes.
• Wider Firm Capability Development: Define and deliver the firm’s learning and capability strategy; identify current and future skills needs in partnership with business leaders; design and commission development solutions using internal and external providers; embed learning within performance management and career development frameworks; promote a culture of continuous development across the firm.
• Budget & Supplier Management: Take ownership of development budgets across apprenticeships, early careers and learning; manage third-party providers to ensure quality and value for money.
• Leadership & Governance: Provide regular reporting and insight to senior stakeholders; ensure strong governance, audit readiness and risk management; lead, coach and develop a high-performing talent development team.

What we are looking for

• Significant experience in learning, talent or organisational development leadership.
• Proven track record designing and delivering capability or talent strategies.
• Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills.
• Experience managing teams, budgets and external partners.
• Experience working with learning systems (Workday Learning desirable).
• Desirable: Experience within apprenticeships, ESFA funding or employer-provider models.
• Knowledge of safeguarding and regulated learning environments.

Why join us

We are an award-winning certified Great Place to Work provider of Audit, Accountancy, Tax and Advisory services in the South West and West Midlands. With a turnover of £48m, we have shown growth and recognize our position in the market. We offer a multifaceted benefits package including: 30 days holiday, extra time off at Christmas, hybrid and flexible working, contributory pension, life assurance, critical illness cover, health cashback plans, perks and discounts, and social events. We emphasize development opportunities and a supportive, inclusive working environment.