Learning & Development Associate Director in Manchester

This is a newly created role, 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.

A look into the role:

• Design and deliver scalable L&D programmes across the firm, from junior to partner level.
• Experience in leading and managing a team.
• Lead the development of 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 CPO 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.

Knowing you’re right for us:

Joining us as a Learning & Development Associate Director, the minimum criteria you’ll need is significant experience designing and delivering scalable L&D programmes within a professional services, accountancy, or financial services environment. You will have a strong understanding of business development and commercial skills development in a client‑facing context, alongside experience creating career progression or stepping up programmes for senior professional populations. You will also demonstrate excellent facilitation and communication skills, be confident presenting to large audiences, and have strong project management capability.

It would be great if you had some of the following skills, but don’t worry if you don’t tick every box, we’ll help you develop along the way:

• 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).

We’re happy to talk flexible working and consider reduced hours and job shares, we’ll support you to balance your work and life.

We’re looking for people who want to contribute, spark fresh ideas and go beyond expectations. People who want to be able to proudly do what’s right, for the firm, our clients, our people and themselves. It’s how it should be.