Learning & Development Manager

The Flavour Network; South Kirkby; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading food processing company in South Kirkby seeks a Learning & Development Manager to oversee the training agenda and internal communications. This role demands strong leadership in creating structured learning programs and compliance with food safety regulations. The ideal candidate will possess a CIPD qualification and experience in the manufacturing sector. This full-time, permanent position offers a salary between £35,000 - £38,000.

Qualifications

• Minimum of CIPD Level 3 or 5 in Learning & Development.
• Experience in leading L&D in manufacturing or similar.
• Strong knowledge of Food Safety and Health & Safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Design and deliver an L&D strategy aligned with business needs.
• Lead and review the company induction programme.
• Conduct regular Training Needs Analysis (TNA).
• Develop and maintain training records.
• Create structured learning programmes.
• Embed a 'Train the Trainer' approach.
• Research and recommend training initiatives.
• Support HR in creating career pathways.
• Manage training budgets.
• Measure the effectiveness of training interventions.
• Lead site-wide communications.

Skills

Leadership in L&D

Food Safety knowledge

Communication skills

Organizational skills

IT skills (Microsoft Office)

Training programme development

Motivational skills

Proactive and adaptable

Education

CIPD Level 3 or Level 5 in L&D

Tools

HR Systems (e.g., REXX)

Job description

Overview

The Flavour Network has partnered with a leading UK food processor to recruit a Learning & Development Manager on a permanent basis. The L&D Manager is a key role within the People function, leading the learning and development agenda across the site while also taking ownership of internal communications. You will drive a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring colleagues at all levels have the tools, training, and support needed to develop in their roles while maintaining compliance with food safety and audit requirements. You will also shape and deliver consistent, engaging communications across the business.

Responsibilities

• Design and deliver a comprehensive L&D strategy that aligns with business needs and food safety compliance.
• Lead and review the company induction programme to ensure a high-quality onboarding experience for new starters.
• Conduct regular Training Needs Analysis (TNA) to identify skills gaps and future capability requirements.
• Develop and maintain training records, providing an up-to-date capability matrix for the workforce.
• Create structured learning programmes using a blend of digital, classroom, and on-the-job training methods.
• Introduce and embed a “Train the Trainer” approach to support on-site learning ownership.
• Research, recommend, and implement additional training initiatives in line with legislative changes and business needs.
• Support HR with the creation of career pathways, succession planning, and apprenticeships across site.
• Take responsibility for training budgets, ensuring spend is aligned with business priorities.
• Establish frameworks to measure the effectiveness and ROI of training interventions.
• Maintain regular L&D reporting and MI, tracking participation and outcomes.
• Lead site-wide communications, ensuring messages are clear, engaging, and consistent with company values.
• Support broader People strategy projects and transformation initiatives as required.

Requirements

• CIPD Level 3 or Level 5 in Learning & Development (essential).
• Previous experience leading L&D in a manufacturing or similar environment.
• Strong knowledge of Food Safety and Health & Safety regulations.
• Proven track record in developing, implementing, and evaluating training programmes.
• Excellent communication skills, able to engage and influence at all levels.
• Strong IT skills, particularly in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Passionate about people development, with the ability to motivate and inspire.
• Methodical, structured, and highly organised, with strong attention to detail.
• Flexible and proactive, with the ability to adapt quickly in a fast-paced environment.
• Confident and engaging, able to deliver training and communications to both individuals and large groups.
• Desirable:
  • Knowledge of the food manufacturing sector and relevant certifications/programmes.
  • HACCP or Food Safety qualifications.
  • Experience using HR systems (e.g., REXX).

Other details

Salary: £35,000 - £38,000 • Location: South Kirkby (near Pontefract / Wakefield) • Position: Full-time, Permanent