Deputy Manager of Learning & Development

Chartwells Independent; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 51,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading guest services provider in the UK seeks a Deputy Manager of Learning & Development. This pivotal role requires strategic thinking and operational excellence to enhance learning experiences across the organization. Responsibilities include leading the L&D team, managing budgets, and developing impactful learning programs. Ideal candidates will have significant experience in L&D within hospitality or a similar environment. The position offers a competitive salary of up to £60,000 per annum and a culture focused on people development.

Benefits

Exclusive discounts on travel and groceries

Contributory pension scheme

Wellbeing initiatives and Employee Assistance Programme

Continuous development opportunities

Recognition awards

Paid volunteering day

Qualifications

• Significant experience in a senior learning & development role.
• Confident leader with a track record in team development.
• Experience in hospitality or client-focused environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day L&D operations ensuring smooth delivery.
• Oversee development of core learning programmes.
• Partner with stakeholders to assess learning needs.
• Manage L&D budgets and external suppliers.
• Drive innovation in digital learning solutions.

Skills

Stakeholder engagement

Leadership development

Budget management

Learning technologies

Commercial awareness

Job description

Rapport is seeking a commercially minded, people-focused learning leader to step into a pivotal role within our award-winning People Team. As Deputy Manager of Learning & Development, you’ll help shape how our people grow, lead and thrive across a service-driven, customer-centric organisation.

This role blends strategic thinking with hands‑on delivery. You’ll take ownership of the operational engine behind our learning function – translating business priorities into impactful development experiences that build capability, confidence and performance. Working closely with senior leaders and clients, you’ll act as a trusted partner, designing learning solutions that reflect Rapport’s signature warmth, creativity and commitment to service excellence.

You’ll lead and develop a high‑performing L&D team, oversee budgets and suppliers, and ensure our learning offer continues to evolve through innovation, insight and best practice.

Role details

• Salary: Up to £60,000 per annum
• Contract: Full-time, permanent
• Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday (flexible where required)
• Location: London (Holborn) with regular travel
• Working pattern: Around four days per week on-site (head office and client locations)

What’s in it for you?

• Everyday savings: Access exclusive discounts on travel, groceries and more, alongside life assurance and cash rewards.
• Long‑term security: Join our contributory pension scheme to support your future plans.
• Wellbeing first: Benefit from wellbeing initiatives, an Employee Assistance Programme and digital GP access.
• Career progression: Continuous development opportunities within a people‑first organisation that invests in its talent.
• Recognition that matters: Be celebrated through our WOW! Awards and Rapport Excellence Awards.
• Time to give back: Enjoy one paid volunteering day each year to support a cause you care about.

What you’ll be responsible for

• Leading the day‑to‑day operation of the L&D function, ensuring learning activity is delivered smoothly, consistently and at pace.
• Overseeing the development and rollout of core learning programmes, from induction and leadership development to compliance and skills training.
• Partnering with managers, clients and senior leaders to diagnose learning needs and deliver practical, high‑impact solutions aligned to business priorities.
• Managing L&D budgets, resources and external suppliers to maximise value and quality.
• Supporting the Head of L&D in embedding the learning strategy and stepping in as deputy when required.
• Driving innovation through digital learning, blended approaches and continuous improvement.
• Championing a culture of inclusion, development and lifelong learning across the organisation.

About you

• You bring significant experience in a senior L&D, people or operational leadership role, ideally within a premium service, hospitality or client‑focused environment.
• You’re a confident, inclusive leader who enjoys developing others and building strong, motivated teams.
• You excel at stakeholder engagement, with the credibility and influence to operate at senior level.
• You’re commercially aware, comfortable managing budgets, suppliers and learning technologies.
• You balance strategic insight with a practical, delivery‑focused approach.
• You’ve led the full learning lifecycle – from identifying needs and designing programmes to delivery, evaluation and refinement.
• You’re passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences that elevate colleague and client outcomes.
• You’re comfortable travelling weekly across Central London, quarterly across the UK & Ireland, and occasionally further afield.

At Rapport, you’ll join a collaborative, forward‑thinking business that genuinely puts people at the heart of what it does. This is a chance to make a lasting impact – shaping learning across a fast‑moving, diverse organisation known for exceptional service.

If you’re ready to step into a senior L&D role where your ideas, leadership and expertise will truly matter, 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.

Find out more about us and our values at www.rapportservice.com.