Learning & Development Manager in Sunderland
Learning & Development Manager

Learning & Development Manager in Sunderland

Sunderland Full-Time 50000 - 65000 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a creative L&D team to design impactful learning experiences.
  • Company: Dynamic company focused on people development and continuous improvement.
  • Benefits: Flexible working, pension scheme, employee recognition, and wellbeing initiatives.
  • Other info: Opportunity for substantial UK travel and career growth.
  • Why this job: Shape the future of talent development and drive performance at scale.
  • Qualifications: Experience in L&D, strong leadership, and project management skills.

The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.

Location: Field-Based (with expectation to be in Head Office Nr Chester at least once per week)

Reports to: Head of Talent & Development

About the Role

We are looking for a forward-thinking, people-focused Learning & Development Manager to act as the strategic number two to the Head of Talent & Development. This is a chance to lead a modern, creative, high-impact L&D function, shaping innovative learning experiences that build capability across the business. You will design bold, scalable development solutions, lead a curious and ambitious L&D team, and help embed a culture of continuous learning, high performance, and growth. This is a hands-on strategic role where you’ll translate business challenges into practical, measurable learning outcomes. Please note this role has substantial UK travel required.

Key Responsibilities

  • Consult with stakeholders to identify capability gaps and design targeted, high-impact interventions.
  • Maintain a visible presence across the business to assess learning impact and drive continuous improvement.
  • Oversee the design and delivery of blended learning programmes, ensuring innovation and quality.
  • Continuously refine induction and onboarding experiences to keep them engaging and effective.
  • Lead bespoke development for regional, departmental, and national programmes supporting succession planning and talent growth.
  • Collaborate with the Digital Learning Design Manager to develop modern digital learning solutions aligned to business goals.
  • Partner with HR and business leaders to build leadership capability and strengthen the internal talent pipeline.
  • Drive the apprenticeship strategy, ensuring high-quality delivery and compliance.
  • Ensure accurate management information to track learning progress, outcomes, and ROI.
  • Lead, coach, and inspire the L&D team to adopt innovative, future-focused ways of working.

Skills & Experience

  • Proven ability to influence and build credibility at all levels.
  • Natural coach with high emotional intelligence.
  • Curious, innovative, and confident challenging the status quo.
  • Strong planning, organisation, and project management skills.
  • Ability to focus on priorities, work at pace, and learn quickly from challenges.
  • Experience leading and engaging high-performing teams.
  • Hands-on, creative, and strategic approach to L&D.

Leadership Approach

  • Approachable, proactive, and resourceful.
  • Fair, consistent, and supportive.
  • Collaborative, enthusiastic, and inspirational.
  • Action-oriented, accountable, and challenging when needed.
  • Considerate, trustworthy, and focused on business and people.

Why This Role?

You’ll play a central role in shaping how the business develops its people. You will drive capability, culture, performance, and potential at scale while leading an innovative and ambitious team.

Benefits & Perks

  • Pension scheme with employer contributions.
  • Flexible working and hybrid opportunities.
  • Employee recognition and reward schemes.
  • Staff discounts and wellbeing initiatives.
  • Long service awards and celebratory events.

Learning & Development Manager in Sunderland employer: Whats On In Chester

As a Learning & Development Manager at our company, you will thrive in a dynamic and supportive environment that prioritises employee growth and innovation. With flexible working arrangements, a strong focus on continuous learning, and a commitment to recognising and rewarding your contributions, you'll be empowered to lead a high-impact L&D function that shapes the future of our workforce. Join us in Chester, where your strategic vision will drive capability and culture across the business, making a meaningful difference in the lives of our employees.
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Contact Detail:

Whats On In Chester Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Learning & Development Manager in Sunderland

✨Network Like a Pro

Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, webinars, or even local meet-ups. The more you engage with others, the better your chances of hearing about opportunities that might not be advertised.

✨Show Off Your Skills

When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, don’t hold back! Share specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in L&D. This is your moment to shine and show them what you can bring to the table.

✨Follow Up Like a Boss

After interviews or networking events, drop a quick thank-you email. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s a great way to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit!

✨Apply Through Our Website

Don’t forget to check out our website for the latest job openings! Applying directly through us not only streamlines the process but also shows your genuine interest in being part of the StudySmarter team.

We think you need these skills to ace Learning & Development Manager in Sunderland

Stakeholder Consultation
Capability Gap Analysis
Blended Learning Design
Induction and Onboarding Development
Succession Planning
Digital Learning Solutions Development
Leadership Capability Building
Apprenticeship Strategy Management
Learning Progress Tracking
Team Leadership
Emotional Intelligence
Project Management
Creative Problem-Solving
Organisational Skills
Continuous Improvement

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Learning & Development Manager role. We want to see how you can bring your unique flair to our team!

Showcase Your Impact: When detailing your previous roles, focus on the impact you've made in L&D. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to drive learning outcomes and foster a culture of continuous improvement. We love numbers and results!

Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who is approachable and collaborative, so don’t be afraid to show us who you are and what makes you passionate about L&D.

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!

How to prepare for a job interview at Whats On In Chester

✨Know Your Stuff

Before the interview, dive deep into the company's values and current L&D initiatives. Familiarise yourself with their approach to learning and development, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you speak confidently about how you can contribute.

✨Showcase Your Leadership Style

As a Learning & Development Manager, your leadership style is crucial. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've led teams in the past, particularly in driving innovation and fostering a culture of continuous learning. Highlight your emotional intelligence and how it has helped you build credibility.

✨Prepare for Scenario Questions

Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking. Think of situations where you've identified capability gaps or designed impactful learning solutions. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.

✨Ask Insightful Questions

At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions. Inquire about the company’s future L&D strategies or how they measure the success of their programmes. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.

Learning & Development Manager in Sunderland
Whats On In Chester
Location: Sunderland

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