Head of Learning & Development

WSP; Birmingham; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering consultancy located in Birmingham is seeking a Talent Development Lead to spearhead global and regional learning initiatives. This role involves designing strategic learning programs, managing a team of specialists, and ensuring effective talent development processes. The ideal candidate will have a background in professional services, extensive communication skills, and experience in managing high-performing teams. Benefits include a hybrid working policy and a focus on employee well-being.

Benefits

Hybrid working policy

Gym membership scheme

Training and mentoring opportunities

Flex time for personal activities

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a professional services environment.
• Demonstrated ability to lead global projects and implement strategies locally.
• Strong operational and implementation skills with a hands-on approach.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of global talent development projects.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to implement strategic learning initiatives.
• Manage and coach a team of Learning and Development Specialists.

Skills

Communication skills

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Data analysis

Instructional design

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Education, or related field

Tools

MS Office

Oracle Cloud

Job description

Job Description

At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives. You can experience a world of opportunity and the chance to shape a career as unique as you.

A Little More About Your Role

WSP UK, Ireland & South Africa is seeking a visionary and strategic Talent Development Lead to champion both global and regional learning initiatives. This is a high-impact role for an accomplished leader with a strong background in professional services, capable of seamlessly balancing global programme leadership with local implementation.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of global talent development projects with alignment to regional needs.
• Collaborate with global and regional stakeholders to implement strategic learning initiatives.
• Lead on Performance Development and collaborate on Succession Planning and Talent Reviews.
• Manage and coach a team of Learning and Development Specialists across UK, Ireland and South Africa fostering a culture of growth and continuous improvement.
• Conduct training needs analysis and develop tailored learning solutions for diverse employee groups.
• Oversee the development and delivery of leadership training programs using blended learning methods.
• Utilise data-driven insights to evaluate and enhance the effectiveness of learning programs.
• Drive innovation in learning content and delivery methods, ensuring relevance and impact.
• Partner with HR and business leaders to embed learning into the organisational culture.
• Ensure compliance with internal policies and external regulations in all training activities.
• Champion the use of emerging technologies and tools in learning and development.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Human Resources, Education, or related field.
• Proven experience in a professional services environment.
• Demonstrated ability to lead global projects and implement strategies locally.
• Strong operational and implementation skills with a hands‑on approach.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, complemented by strong proficiency in both spoken and written English.
• Experience managing and developing high-performing L&D teams.
• Proficiency in data analysis to inform learning strategies.
• Experience in instructional design and training delivery.
• Proficiency in MS Office and Oracle Cloud.

Benefits & Perks

Work‑life balance: Hybrid working policy offers flexibility to work from home two days a week, with opportunities to collaborate in modern offices across the UK.

Inclusivity & Belonging: We welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and encourage an authentic workplace culture.

Health & Wellbeing: Thrive programme, virtual GP service, reasonable workplace adjustments, gym membership scheme, menopause support package.

Flex your time: “WSP My Hour” allows one hour each day for personal activities, with optional part‑time and flexible arrangements.

Your development: Supported through training, mentoring, and Chartership opportunities.

EEO & Diversity Statement

Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria, please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.