Learning & Development Senior Manger

We are a leading UK accountancy and advisory firm, committed to building a firm where the best people choose to work. This newly created role is designed to shape and scale a world‑class Learning & Development function that helps our people, from graduate to partner, develop the skills, mindset and commercial acumen to thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and deliver scalable L&D programmes across the firm, from junior to partner level
• Lead and manage a team
• Develop a flagship Business Development training programme, equipping people at every grade with the skills to win work, build relationships and grow revenue
• Build and own a Career Stepping Up programme, structured pathways that support people transitioning into Manager, Senior Manager, Director and Partner roles
• Develop a Commercial Awareness curriculum that helps our people understand how the firm makes money, how to add value to clients and how to think like a business owner
• Ensure all programmes are scalable, built to be delivered consistently across service lines, geographies and grade levels without requiring bespoke delivery each time
• Partner with Service Line leaders, HR Business Partners and the Chief People Officer to identify capability gaps and build solutions that are commercially grounded
• Manage external learning providers and facilitators, ensuring quality and value for money
• Build strong relationships with Partners and senior leaders to ensure L&D is seen as a business‑critical function, not a support service
• Define clear success metrics for all programmes, from completion rates to behavioural change and commercial impact
• Use data and feedback to continuously improve programme design and delivery
• Report regularly to the People Director and business on L&D effectiveness and ROI

Qualifications and Experience

• Significant experience designing and delivering scalable L&D programmes within a professional services, accountancy, or financial services environment
• Strong understanding of business development and commercial skills development in a client-facing context
• Experience creating career progression or stepping-up programmes for senior professional populations
• Excellent facilitation and communication skills; confident presenting to large audiences
• Strong project management capability

Additional desirable skills (not mandatory)

• Experience working in or with an accountancy, legal or consulting firm
• Coaching qualification (ILM, ICF or equivalent)
• Experience integrating digital learning tools and AI-enabled development platforms
• Familiarity with psychometric or behavioural assessment tools (e.g. Korn Ferry, Hogan)

Benefits

We offer flexible working options to support work-life balance, including reduced hours, job shares and a flexible working framework. We value an inclusive culture and encourage participation in charitable initiatives.

Equal Opportunity

Grant Thornton is an equal opportunities employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or other protected status.