Learning & Development Manager in Preston

Harrison Drury is a market‑leading firm of solicitors with offices across Lancashire, Cumbria and Staffordshire. We’re delighted to be named one of the UK’s Best Companies to Work For, for the third year running, placing 40th in the Top 100 Best Mid‑Sized Companies and 10th in the Best Companies to Work for in the Law Sector. These achievements reflect our commitment to creating a supportive, people‑focused workplace where our colleagues can thrive. With over 100 years of history, we’re a well‑established firm, but we’re also in an exciting period of growth, with the energy and ambition of a modern, fast‑developing business. It’s a fantastic time to join us.

We are looking for an experienced Learning & Development Manager to lead, shape and deliver our firmwide L&D strategy. This is a key role within our HR team, responsible for designing and embedding high‑quality learning solutions that support our people at every stage of their careers. Reporting to the Head of HR, you will work closely with Line Managers, Department Heads and senior stakeholders to ensure our L&D offering is aligned with business priorities and drives performance across the firm.

• Design, structure and manage the firm’s L&D provision as a proactive, high‑impact support function.
• Lead the development and ongoing management of the LMS (or equivalent), ensuring structured, accessible training for all colleagues.
• Maintain accurate training records, LMS data and governance processes.
• Manage the L&D budget and Apprenticeship Levy, providing regular updates to the Head of HR.
• Conduct detailed learning needs analyses and create rolling training plans for firmwide, departmental and individual development.
• Build strong relationships with key stakeholders across the business.
• Design, deliver and evaluate L&D initiatives using modern, engaging and technology‑enhanced methods, including digital learning content.
• Collate and analyse data to produce insightful reports, including Board‑level reporting.
• Manage relationships with external L&D suppliers and partners.
• Promote a culture of continuous learning across the organisation.
• Support firmwide HR projects such as Investors in People, Best Companies and internal events.
• Contribute to recruitment and development activity.
• Ensure effective training support is in place to help solicitors meet SRA competence requirements.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to scope, design and deliver L&D programmes at all levels.
• Background in the legal or wider professional services sector.
• Strong project management experience.
• Experience operating at middle‑management level.
• Leadership and line‑management development experience.
• Experience delivering large‑scale change programmes.

• Business coaching experience.
• Strong relationship‑management skills.
• Knowledge of SRA solicitor competencies and qualification routes.
• Experience implementing or managing an L&D software platform.

• CIPD Level 5 (or above) or equivalent qualification.
• Fully competent in Microsoft Office.

• Self‑starter with the ability to work independently.
• Confident public speaker.
• Willingness to travel as required.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.

• Hybrid working policy.
• Employee bonus scheme and annual pay review.
• Medicash health benefits cash plan and Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).
• Increasing holiday entitlement with length of service.
• Paid time off for voluntary work (2 days per year).
• Free conveyancing for the purchase/sale of your primary residence.
• Free individual or mirror Wills.
• Employee referral scheme.
• Biannual promotion and salary uplift application process.
• Regular social events, including our annual Christmas party and staff recognition awards.

• Be part of an award‑winning, people‑focused firm.
• Work alongside recognised experts in the field.
• Enjoy a supportive culture that invests in development and wellbeing.
• Flexible working arrangements to suit your lifestyle.
• Opportunity to make a real impact in a growing team.