Deputy Head of Learning & Development

Rapport; Greater London; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading guest services provider in London is seeking a Deputy Head of Learning & Development to play a key role in shaping the learning strategy. This position involves leading the L&D team, managing learning programs, and driving innovation in learning solutions. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills, experience in a luxury or service-led environment, and a passion for creating exceptional development experiences. This role offers a competitive salary and opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Travel and grocery discounts

Contributory pension scheme

Wellness programmes

Continuous learning opportunities

Paid volunteer day

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a senior L&D or operational leadership role.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire teams.
• Excellent stakeholder management and consultancy capabilities.
• Strategic mindset with hands-on delivery ability.
• Passionate about learning and development.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily operations of the L&D team.
• Oversee design and evaluation of learning programmes.
• Provide expert consultancy to identify needs and develop solutions.
• Manage budgets and supplier relationships.
• Champion innovation in learning delivery.

Skills

Senior L&D experience

Leadership and team management

Stakeholder management

Budget management

Proficient in digital learning tools

Job description

We are looking for a dynamic and experienced Deputy Head of Learning & Development to join Rapport's award‑winning People Team. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in shaping the learning strategy across our vibrant, customer‑focused organisation. You'll bring together your operational, financial, consultancy and people management expertise to deliver learning experiences that empower our people and strengthen our culture of excellence.

As Deputy Head of L&D, you will lead the operational delivery of our learning agenda - overseeing day‑to‑day activity, managing a talented team, and ensuring our learning programmes inspire growth, capability and performance across every level of our business. You will also act as a trusted consultant to senior stakeholders, designing and implementing innovative learning solutions that drive success and reflect the warmth, creativity and service excellence that define Rapport.

Salary: up to £60,000 per annum.

Type of contract: Full‑time, Permanent. Hours: Monday‑Friday, 40 hours per week (flexible to suit business needs).

Location: London, Holborn, with some travel (see "About You" section).

Working pattern: Approximately four days per week on‑site (head office or client locations).

What will you get?

• Financial freedom: Enjoy exclusive travel and grocery discounts, plus life assurance and cash rewards!
• Secure your future: Benefit from a contributory pension scheme for a stable financial tomorrow.
• Health matters: Access wellness programmes, an Employee Assistance Programme, and digital GP services for holistic support.
• Thrive personally & professionally: Unlock continuous learning and development opportunities to grow your career with a people‑first organisation.
• Celebrate excellence: Recognise and be recognised through our WOW! Awards and Rapport Excellence Awards.
• Give back to community: Take one paid day off each year to volunteer for a cause close to your heart.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the daily operations of the L&D team, ensuring efficient delivery of learning programmes and initiatives.
• Oversee the design, coordination, and evaluation of core learning programmes, including induction, leadership development, compliance and skills training.
• Provide expert L&D consultancy to clients, managers and leaders, identifying needs and developing solutions that align with business goals, and efficiently utilise resources.
• Manage budgets, resources, and supplier relationships to deliver value and quality across all L&D activities.
• Support the Head of L&D in delivering the organisation's learning strategy and deputise as required.
• Champion innovation in learning delivery, embracing digital tools and blended learning approaches.
• Promote a culture of continuous learning, inclusion, and professional growth.

About You

• Proven experience in a senior L&D or operational leadership role, ideally within a luxury hospitality or service‑led environment.
• Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to inspire and develop others.
• Excellent stakeholder management and consultancy skills, able to communicate and influence at all levels.
• Confident managing budgets and suppliers, in part through efficient use of relevant technology and systems.
• Strategic mindset combined with hands‑on delivery capability.
• Experienced in managing the full end‑to‑end learning cycle, from needs analysis and programme design through to delivery, evaluation, and continuous improvement.
• Passionate about learning, development, and creating exceptional colleague experiences.
• Ability to travel weekly to client locations across Central London, quarterly within UK & Ireland, and occasionally to other global locations.

You’ll be part of a collaborative and innovative organisation that truly values its people. We offer a supportive environment where you can make a real impact, shaping the future of learning across a diverse, fast‑paced business.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your L&D career and help drive excellence across one of London’s most dynamic corporate guest and workplace service teams – we’d love to hear from you.

About us

Rapport Guest Services is a multi‑award‑winning company, delivering front‑ and back‑of‑house guest services for leading organisations across the UK, Ireland, and globally. As part of Compass Group UK&I, we combine people‑first culture with exceptional service standards.

We are proud of our commitment to inclusion, wellbeing, and creating opportunities for everyone to thrive. We are also a Disability Confident Employer, offering meaningful roles for individuals with additional needs.