Strategic L&D Leader for Autism Services

Uniting Holding; Dublin; On-site; EUR 58,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Gheel Autism Services CLG is seeking a Learning and Development Manager to lead the design, delivery and evaluation of a comprehensive staff learning program across Dublin, North Kildare and Wicklow. The role combines strategy with hands-on delivery and budget management, supporting a neuro-affirmative, rights-based organisation.

You will lead internal trainers, report to the Operations Committee, and work with HR to connect learning with induction, probation and career pathways.

Qualifications

• Essential: NFQ Level 8+ in learning and development, education, human resources, social care or related discipline.
• Essential: A recognised training qualification such as Train the Trainer at QQI Level 6 or equivalent adult education/instructional design qualification.
• Essential: At least five years in a learning and development role, with at least two years in management or senior specialist level.
• Essential: Substantial recent experience designing and delivering training to adult learners.
• Essential: Experience leading a change or culture programme across an organisation or a substantial part of one.
• Essential: Experience managing training compliance in a regulated environment, including reporting to senior management or a board.
• Essential: Experience developing other trainers or facilitators, and line managing at least one staff member.
• Essential: A full driving licence and access to a vehicle.
• Desirable: Membership of the Learning and Development Institute (MLDI) or higher, or commitment to reach that level.
• Desirable: Postgraduate qualification in adult education, organisational development, change management or strategic learning and development.
• Desirable: CIPD membership.
• Desirable: Experience in disability, autism, mental health, social care or health services.
• Desirable: Working knowledge of HIQA regulation and New Directions.

Responsibilities

• Leading the learning and workforce side of Gheel's shift to neuro-affirmative, relational, rights-based practice.
• Developing and maintaining a Learning and Development strategy and policy, with named owners, timelines and measures.
• Setting a single quality standard for all training delivered in Gheel, whoever delivers it.
• Building simple, repeatable routines for everyday learning — coaching-style supervision, team reflection, peer-led sessions and communities of practice.
• Recruiting, developing and supporting a panel of internal trainers.
• Owning training compliance and governance, and reporting quarterly to the Operations Committee, Senior Management Team and Board.
• Line managing the Learning and Development Officer, and managing external training providers.
• Working with HR so learning connects to induction, probation, performance and development, and career pathways.

Education

NFQ Level 8+ qualification in learning and development, education, human resources, social care or related discipline

Recognised training qualification (e.g., Train the Trainer at QQI Level 6)

Job description

Gheel Autism Services CLG is seeking a Learning and Development Manager to lead the design, delivery and evaluation of a comprehensive staff learning program across Dublin, North Kildare and Wicklow. The role combines strategy with hands-on delivery and budget management, supporting a neuro-affirmative, rights-based organisation.

You will lead internal trainers, report to the Operations Committee, and work with HR to connect learning with induction, probation and career pathways.