Learning & Development Manager

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
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Consult with stakeholders to identify capability gaps and design targeted, high-impact interventions.
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Maintain a visible presence across the business to assess learning impact and drive continuous improvement.
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Oversee the design and delivery of blended learning programmes, ensuring innovation and quality.
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Continuously refine induction and onboarding experiences to keep them engaging and effective.
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Lead bespoke development for regional, departmental, and national programmes supporting succession planning and talent growth.
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Collaborate with the Digital Learning Design Manager to develop modern digital learning solutions aligned to business goals.
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Partner with HR and business leaders to build leadership capability and strengthen the internal talent pipeline.
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Drive the apprenticeship strategy, ensuring high-quality delivery and compliance.
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Ensure accurate management information to track learning progress, outcomes, and ROI.
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Lead, coach, and inspire the L&D team to adopt innovative, future-focused ways of working.
Skills & Experience
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Proven ability to influence and build credibility at all levels.
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Natural coach with high emotional intelligence.
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Curious, innovative, and confident challenging the status quo.
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Strong planning, organisation, and project management skills.
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Ability to focus on priorities, work at pace, and learn quickly from challenges.
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Experience leading and engaging high-performing teams.
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Hands-on, creative, and strategic approach to L&D.
Leadership Approach
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Approachable, proactive, and resourceful
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Fair, consistent, and supportive
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Collaborative, enthusiastic, and inspirational
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Action-oriented, accountable, and challenging when needed
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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
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Pension scheme with employer contributions
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Flexible working and hybrid opportunities
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Employee recognition and reward schemes
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Staff discounts and wellbeing initiatives
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Long service awards and celebratory events
New Ventures Recruitment are an equal opportunities employer and is acting as a recruitment agency in relation to this vacancy