Head of Learning and Development (FTC)

Location: Head Office and Wenzel’s Shops (Multi site)

Position Type: Full-Time

Reports To: Sales Director

About us: Wenzel’s the Bakers is a family-founded business that has been serving local communities with quality baked goods since 1975. At Wenzel’s, our ethos centres around community, quality, and innovation. We take pride in fostering a supportive workplace culture where every team member can thrive. We’re committed to providing excellent products, exceptional service, and an environment where employees feel valued and empowered.

Job Summary: As the Head of Learning and Development, you will play a pivotal role in supporting our shop teams and nurturing our leadership talent. You will manage and deliver training programs across the business, including leading academy days, training new middle managers, and writing content that enhances team skills and knowledge. Your focus will be on tracking and improving the effectiveness of all training activities, ensuring that Wenzel’s staff continues to grow and thrive in their roles.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and manage training programs for new and existing staff at all levels.
• Lead and coordinate training academy days, ensuring they are impactful and aligned with company objectives.
• Create training content and resources across various platforms to support learning and development initiatives.
• Track, measure, and report on training activities and outcomes across the business.
• Provide coaching and mentorship to new managers and team leaders to ensure smooth transitions and ongoing development.
• Work closely with senior leadership to identify learning needs and create targeted solutions.
• Foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement throughout the company.
• Ensure all training materials and programs are up-to-date, relevant, and aligned with the company's values and goals.
• Support the integration of new training technologies and systems to enhance the training experience.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Proven experience in Learning and Development, training, or a related field, with a focus on leadership and management development in retail.
• Experience in designing and delivering training programs, both in-person and online.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to create clear, engaging training content.
• Ability to track and analyse training outcomes and report on effectiveness.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with stakeholders at all levels of the organisation.
• Proficient in using e-learning management systems (LMS) and other training tools.
• A positive, proactive, and results-driven approach to problem-solving.
• Previous experience in retail or hospitality environments is a plus.
• CIPD or other professional L&D qualifications are desirable, but not essential.

Salary, Perks & Benefits:

• Salary £45,000 - £55,000
• Free lunch on the days you work
• 50% staff discount instore
• Enrolment into the company pension scheme.
• Individual private healthcare insurance
• An additional holiday day on or around your birthday.
• Unlimited 100% Arabica fresh ground coffee, tea, or other hot drinks.

Working Conditions:

• Fixed term contract for 12 months with potential for extension.
• Occasional evening or weekend work depending on training requirements.
• This is an office based role within our Head Office at Sunley House Olds Approach, Northwood, Watford, WD18 9TB, with occasional travel to various shop locations for training and support.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit their CV and cover letter, outlining their qualifications and relevant experience for the Head of Learning and Development role. This job description provides an overview of the key duties and qualifications for the Head of Learning and Development position and is not intended to be exhaustive. Other responsibilities may be assigned as needed to support the company’s objectives. Join us at Wenzel’s the Bakers and be part of a company that values quality, community, and innovation.