Head of Learning & Development

WSP; United Kingdom; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering and professional services firm in the United Kingdom is seeking a Talent Development Lead to drive innovative learning initiatives. The ideal candidate will hold a relevant degree and have proven experience in a professional services environment. Responsibilities include leading a team to design and execute global talent development projects while ensuring alignment with regional needs. This role offers flexible working conditions and a commitment to inclusivity within a culture that values personal and professional growth.

Benefits

Hybrid working policy

Gymflex scheme

Virtual GP service

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a professional services environment.
• Strong operational and implementation skills with a hands‑on approach.
• Experience managing and developing high‑performing L&D teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and execution of global talent development projects.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to implement strategic learning initiatives.
• Oversee development and delivery of leadership training programs.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Data analysis

Coaching

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources or related field

Tools

MS Office

Oracle Cloud

Job description

United Kingdom
Leeds, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom

Job Description

What if you could do the kind of work the world needs?

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.

You will lead a team of Learning and Development Specialists across the UK, Ireland, and South Africa, ensuring alignment with WSP’s global talent strategy while tailoring solutions to meet regional development needs. This role would be ideal for a self-starter with outstanding strategic insight, operational excellence, and a hands‑on approach to implementation.

You will

• 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.

What we will be looking for you to demonstrate…

• 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.

Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all.
Join our close‑knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact. Our global team includes more than 69,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world.
With us, you can. Apply today.

Job Info

• Job Identification 74596
• Posting Date 12/03/2025, 11:30 AM

About Us

We are one of the world’s leading engineering and professional services firms. Our 72,800 passionate people are united by the common purpose of creating positive, long‑lasting impacts on the communities we serve through a culture of innovation, integrity, and inclusion. With over 9,000 professionals across the UK and Ireland, we are dedicated to our local communities and propelled by international brainpower.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?

Work‑life balance

At WSP, we understand that work is just one aspect of your life. It’s important to make time for you, your family, friends, interests and your community.

Our hybrid working policy offers the flexibility to work from home two days a week, while also providing opportunities to collaborate in our modern offices across the UK.

Inclusivity & Belonging

We welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences. We enable rewarding careers by encouraging people to bring their whole and authentic selves to work so that our work represents the fullest spectrum of society. We celebrate integrity and treat people with respect, supporting each other and embracing a culture of inclusion and belonging at WSP. We have our employee resource groups bring together employees and allies with different backgrounds to promote our culture of inclusivity.

We are committed to supporting our people, giving you the tools to make improvements to your health and wellbeing through our Thrive programme.

Our Virtual GP service gives you access to an NHS or Irish Medical Council GP at a time and place that suits you – giving you peace of mind and quick access to medical advice when you need it most. We also provide reasonable workplace adjustments for those in need. Additionally, you can benefit from the Gymflex scheme, which offers up to 40% off annual gym memberships through our WSP flexible benefits program, as well as a comprehensive menopause support package.

Flex your time

To enhance work‑life balance, WSP offers the “WSP My Hour,” allowing you to take one hour each day for personal activities, with the flexibility to make up the time earlier or later that day.

We also provide part‑time and flexible working arrangements, the option to purchase additional leave, and the ability to use your bank holiday entitlement to suit you.

We understand the importance of development and training to you. That’s why we foster a supportive environment that invests in your growth, whether through training, mentoring, or Chartership.

#WeAreWSP

Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender re‑assignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader…