
Learning and Development Manager
- Sandton, Johannesburg
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Develop and implement a comprehensive learning strategy for leadership and core (soft) skills development that aligns with Discovery's business objectives and talent priorities.
- Oversee the end-to-end design, development, and delivery of high-quality learning solutions, classroom, virtual, and digital tailored to various roles and levels.
- Lead, coach, and inspire a team of Learning and Development Specialists to drive innovation, excellence, and continuous improvement in learning design and facilitation.
- Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and business leaders to identify learning needs, gather feedback, and ensure solutions deliver measurable value.
- Establish metrics and mechanisms to evaluate the effectiveness and impact of learning programmes on individual and organisational performance, aligned to the 6Ds methodology.
- sure learning is transferred to the workplace, business outcomes are achieved, and value is created and demonstrated.
- Champion the use of new technologies, tools, and methodologies (e.g., microlearning, gamification, blended learning) to create engaging and scalable learning experiences.
- Leverage AI and other emerging technologies to drive efficiency, enhance content creation, and streamline learning development and delivery processes across formats.
- Ensure all learning interventions meet internal quality standards and regulatory requirements and are aligned with Discovery's learning frameworks and methodologies.
- Manage the team's learning budget and resources effectively, ensuring optimal allocation for maximum impact.
- Strategic leadership: Demonstrates advanced leadership capability, with a proven ability to lead high-performing teams, influence senior stakeholders, and align learning strategy to business priorities.
- Innovative and critical thinking: Applies innovative, forward-thinking approaches to solve complex problems, drive continuous improvement, and future-proof learning solutions.
- Expertise in learning and development: Deep understanding of both traditional and modern learning methodologies, including digital, blended, and experiential learning practices.
- AI and technology integration: Comfortable leveraging AI, learning technologies, and digital tools to enhance learning experiences and improve team efficiency.
- Growth and agile mindset: Embraces change, shows resilience, and fosters a culture of learning, experimentation, and adaptability within the team.
- Exceptional communication and influence: Communicates with clarity and impact across all levels of the organisation; skilled at managing diverse personalities and building strong networks.
- Project and programme management: Demonstrates strong organisational, planning, and execution skills, with the ability to lead complex projects and manage multiple priorities.
- Business acumen: Understands the business context and uses data-driven insights to shape learning decisions and demonstrate ROI.
- Customer-centric focus: Dedicated to understanding and exceeding internal customer needs, with a commitment to delivering measurable value.
- Attention to quality and detail: Maintains high standards in all learning outputs, with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to excellence.
- Resilience and pressure management: Maintains performance and decision-making capability under pressure, navigating challenges with composure.
- Advanced reporting and writing skills: Able to craft compelling reports, proposals, and communications tailored for executive and strategic audiences.
- Minimum of 8-10 years' experience in Learning and Development, with at least 3-5 years in a management role.
- Proven track record of designing and delivering leadership development and soft skills programmes across various levels in a large organisation.
- Demonstrated experience leading high-performing L&D teams, including coaching, performance management, and development of team members.
- Strong background in both digital and in-person learning solutions, including instructional design, content development, and facilitation.
- Experience applying learning evaluation frameworks and methodologies, such as the 6Ds or Kirkpatrick Model, to measure learning impact and business value.
- Strong stakeholder engagement and consulting experience, working with cross-functional teams and senior business leaders.
- Experience managing learning projects end-to-end, including scoping, budgeting, and reporting.
- High proficiency in using modern learning technologies, Learning Management Systems (LMS), and virtual learning platforms (e.g., MS Teams, Zoom, etc.).
- Experience using AI tools and digital innovation to enhance learning design and team efficiency.
- A formal qualification in Human Resources, Learning and Development, Organisational Psychology, Education, or a related field.
- Evidence of continuous professional development in leadership, learning design, or training facilitation.
- A postgraduate qualification (Honours or Master's) in a relevant field.
- Formal training or certification in the 6DsĀ® methodology or other learning impact frameworks.
- Certifications or demonstrated expertise in AI tools for learning or digital learning technologies.