Functional Head: Training

Hungry Lion Fast Foods (Pty) Ltd; Stellenbosch, Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading fast-food company in Stellenbosch is seeking an experienced Functional Head: Training to lead training initiatives and enhance team performance. Responsibilities include developing training programs for staff at all levels and ensuring compliance with training regulations. The ideal candidate has over five years of experience in the food service industry and strong leadership skills.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in the QSR, food service, or hospitality industry, with at least 3 years in a Training Manager role.
• Strong knowledge of restaurant operations, customer service standards and food safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Develop and submit the annual Workplace Skills Plan (WSP) and Annual Training Report (ATR) timeously.
• Ensure that all SETA & legislative reporting requirements are met.
• Lead a small training team and provide coaching for their development.
• Monitor and evaluate training effectiveness, providing feedback and coaching.

Skills

Strong analytical skills to assess training effectiveness and performance improvements

Excellent communication, presentation, and leadership skills

Ability to design and deliver engaging training programs

Familiarity with Learning Management Systems (LMS)

Proficiency in Google Workspace and training software

Education

Certification in Training & Development or Instructional Design

Job description

We are looking for an experienced Functional Head: Training to lead our training initiatives and enhance team performance in a fast-paced, rapidly expanding organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and submit the annual Workplace Skills Plan (WSP) and Annual Training Report (ATR) timeously.
• Ensure that all SETA & legislative reporting requirements are met both in terms of content and deadlines.
• Monitor all recoverable grants and ensure maximum recoverable grants are achieved as per the service level agreement with the relevant SETAs.
• Develop and implement training programs for restaurant staff at all levels, including general workers, cashiers, supervisors, and store managers.
• Lead a small training team and provide coaching for their development.
• Ensure consistent execution of brand standards, operational procedures, and customer service excellence.
• Identify training needs, create learning modules, and conduct workshops for employees.
• Monitor and evaluate training effectiveness, providing feedback and coaching to improve performance.
• Work closely with other departments and store management to align training strategies with business goals.
• Develop training programs to support career growth within the organisation.
• Stay updated on industry trends and best practices to enhance training methodologies.
• Experience in assessing training effectiveness and using data-driven insights to improve programs.

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience, preferablyin the QSR, food service, or hospitality industry, with at least 3 years in a Training Manager role.
• A certification in Training & Development, Instructional Design or Food Safety preferred.
• Strong knowledge of restaurant operations, customer service standards and food safety protocols.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and leadership skills.
• Ability to design and deliver engaging training programs using various methods.
• Strong analytical skills to assess training effectiveness and performance improvements.

• Familiarity with Learning Management Systems (LMS) and digital training tools.
• Proficiency in Google Workspace and training software.

Competencies

Strategic Thinking

• Aligns departmental goals with company objectives.
• Identifies growth opportunities and potential risks.

Leadership & People Management

• Motivates and develops a high-performing team.
• Provides clear direction and resolves conflicts effectively.

Decision-Making & Problem-Solving

• Analyses complex situations and makes informed decisions.
• Uses data-driven insights to solve challenges.

Communication & Influence

• Clearly conveys ideas to stakeholders at all levels.
• Negotiates and persuades to drive initiatives forward.

Operational Efficiency

• Streamlines processes to improve productivity.
• Implements best practices for optimal resource use.

Financial Acumen

• Understands cost control, profitability, and return on investment (ROI).

Change Management & Adaptability

• Leads teams through organisational or industry shifts.
• Embraces innovation and continuous improvement.

Customer & Stakeholder Focus

• Understands customer needs and ensures service excellence.
• Builds strong positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Performance & Results Orientation

• Sets and monitors key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Ensures accountability for achieving business targets.

Technology & Digital Literacy

• Leverages digital tools to enhance department performance.
• Keeps up with technological advancements in the industry.

Closing date: 11 August 2025