At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead learning and development initiatives to empower our workforce and drive organisational change.
- Company: Join Sense, a leading disability charity dedicated to breaking down barriers.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Champion inclusion and accessibility while shaping a values-led future.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the lives of disabled people and their families.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in learning and organisational development.
The predicted salary is between 56745 - 56745 € per year.
Help shape the future of learning, leadership, and culture as our new Head of learning & organisational development - driving growth, performance, and potential across our organisation.
About the role
As our Head of learning and organisational development, you'll play a pivotal role in building the capability, confidence and connection of our workforce. Reporting to the Chief People Officer, you'll design and deliver an ambitious learning and organisational development strategy that drives inclusion, strengthens leadership at every level, and ensures our people are equipped to deliver outstanding, person-centred support. From developing innovative learning frameworks to leading culture and engagement initiatives, you'll enable colleagues to thrive and grow - shaping an organisation that always learns, reflects and improves. This is your chance to make a tangible difference to the lives of disabled people and their families, whilst guiding Sense toward an even stronger, values-led future.
Key responsibilities
- Lead the development and delivery of a strategic learning and organisational development plan aligned with organisational priorities and compliance requirements.
- Act as a trusted advisor on workforce development, culture, and organisational change, championing continuous learning and improvement.
- Design and oversee a comprehensive learning framework, covering leadership, specialist, and compliance training using blended learning approaches.
- Drive organisational development initiatives that strengthen culture, engagement, inclusion, and connection to purpose and values.
- Develop and implement leadership and talent pathways that support progression, succession planning, and workforce resilience.
- Embed inclusive and anti-ableist practices across all learning and development activities, ensuring accessibility and equity for disabled colleagues.
- Ensure effective governance, reporting, and budget management, demonstrating value for money and compliance with regulatory standards.
About you
We're looking for an experienced, values-driven leader who can inspire meaningful change across our organisation. You will bring:
Essential requirements
- Significant leadership experience in learning and development and/or organisational development.
- Proven record of delivering culture change and organisational transformation.
- Experience working in social care, health, disability services or a related sector.
- Expertise in designing and implementing leadership development frameworks.
- Strong facilitation, coaching and influencing skills to engage people at all levels.
- Demonstrated commitment to inclusion, accessibility and rights-based approaches.
- Ability to use data and insight to evaluate impact and shape strategic decisions.
- Experience managing budgets and showing measurable return on investment.
- Evidence of embedding and evaluating learning impact across large or complex organisations.
Desirable experience
- Relevant qualification in HR, L&D, OD or Coaching (e.g., CIPD Level 5/7 or equivalent).
- Understanding of supporting disabled people with complex needs.
- Experience with regulated services, apprenticeships or levy management.
- Knowledge of trauma-informed and positive behaviour support approaches.
- Familiarity with digital learning systems and blended learning solutions.
Leadership qualities
- Values-driven, person-centred and collaborative.
- A strategic thinker with operational credibility and courage to challenge constructively.
- Emotionally intelligent, reflective and committed to continuous learning.
Join us to champion learning, lead change and empower a workforce that transforms lives every day.
About Sense
Sense is a leading disability charity, here to break down barriers alongside disabled people with complex needs. We use our knowledge and expertise to deliver personalised, creative and flexible support at every stage of life. Together, we drive change, building a future where everyone has the power, choice and control to live the lives we choose. We're proud to be a Disability confident leader and a charity where people can grow their skills and careers in a supportive, flexible environment.
Our values
- We're creating change
- We're always learning
- We're better together
To apply
Please use the link below to complete your application. Managers will use your application to shortlist candidates for interview, in relation to the Personal Specification. Therefore, it is very important you complete this section thoroughly. We would recommend that you read the job description and person specification before applying. Please note to avoid disappointment, we advise you to submit your application as soon as possible as we reserve the right to close posts at any time. No agency submissions please: any submissions without prior authorisation from the Sense Recruitment Team will be treated as our own and as such no fee will be payable.
If you require any further assistance, please contact the Recruitment Team.
Sense is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable children and adults and expects all employees to share this commitment. Therefore, all offers of employment, where appropriate, are subject to a DBS check; level dependent on the nature of the role. For this role we particularly welcome applications from candidates from underrepresented Global Majority backgrounds and candidates with disabilities. Sense is committed to equality of opportunity, and to promoting and celebrating the diversity of staff, volunteers and the people we work with. Everyone's contribution is valued and we ensure they're given the opportunity to realise their potential. We welcome applications from talented people from all sections of the community who share our values and belief that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential.
For more information please visit: Precise Location: 750 Bristol Road, Birmingham, West Midlands, B29 6NA, United Kingdom
Head of learning & organisational development - Permanent - Full Time employer: Sense
At Sense, we pride ourselves on being a values-driven organisation that champions learning and development, making us an exceptional employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact. Located in Birmingham, our supportive and flexible work culture fosters personal and professional growth, while our commitment to inclusion ensures that every employee can thrive. Join us to lead transformative change and empower a workforce dedicated to improving the lives of disabled people and their families.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of learning & organisational development - Permanent - Full Time
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the learning and organisational development space. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company culture and values. Since Sense is all about breaking down barriers and championing inclusion, think about how your experience aligns with their mission. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've driven change in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills during interviews. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to highlight your achievements in learning and development. This will help you demonstrate your ability to inspire and lead teams effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our mission at Sense. Get your application in early to avoid missing out!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of learning & organisational development - Permanent - Full Time
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing your application, take a good look at the job description. It’s packed with clues about what we’re looking for, so make sure you understand the key responsibilities and essential requirements.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! We want to see how your experience aligns with our needs. Highlight specific examples from your past that demonstrate your leadership in learning and organisational development.
Showcase Your Values:We’re all about values here at StudySmarter. Make sure to weave in your commitment to inclusion, accessibility, and continuous learning throughout your application. This will help us see how you fit into our culture.
Apply Through Our Website:When you’re ready to submit, make sure you do it through our website. This helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Don’t wait too long – apply early!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sense
✨Know the Organisation Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into Sense's mission, values, and recent initiatives. Understanding their commitment to inclusion and support for disabled people will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully led learning and organisational development initiatives in the past. Highlight your ability to drive culture change and transformation, as this is crucial for the Head of Learning & Organisational Development position.
✨Emphasise Inclusion and Accessibility
Given the focus on inclusive practices, be ready to discuss how you've embedded anti-ableist approaches in your previous roles. Share concrete examples of how you've ensured accessibility and equity in learning and development activities.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few insightful questions ready. Ask about their current challenges in learning and development or how they measure the impact of their initiatives. This shows your strategic thinking and genuine interest in contributing to their mission.
