Talent Development Senior Manager

Ernst & Young Global Limited; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global professional services firm is seeking a Talent Development Senior Manager in Gauteng, Johannesburg. The successful candidate will drive and execute talent development initiatives, design programs, and foster a culture of continuous learning. They will need a degree in HR and at least 8 years of related experience, with strong skills in coaching and project management.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years experience in talent development or learning.
• Proven experience in implementing talent programs.
• Strong knowledge of adult learning theories.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute talent development strategy aligned with firm objectives.
• Design and implement learning and development programs.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to improve talent management practices.

Skills

Talent development strategy

Coaching

Project management

Analytical skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

Degree in Human Resources or related field

Tools

Talent assessment tools

Job description

Job title : Talent Development Senior Manager

Job Location : Gauteng, Johannesburg

Deadline : October 23, 2025

Overview

Role purpose

The Talent Development Lead is a strategic role responsible for driving and executing the talent development initiatives. Responsible for designing and implementing talent development programs and fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth. The Talent Development Lead plays a critical role in identifying and nurturing talent, enhancing employee capabilities, and supporting the firm's talent management strategies.

Key Responsibilities

Talent Development Strategy, Planning and Execution

• Develop and execute a comprehensive region talent development strategy aligned with firm’s objectives and talent management priorities.
• Collaborate with key stakeholders to identify talent development needs and design targeted initiatives for various employee levels.
• Oversees and drives execution of the region talent development strategy.

Learning and Development Programs

• Develop strategy, programs / initiatives and toolkits for the identification, assessment and coaching of high potential employees across the Region
• Design and implement effective learning and development programs, including leadership development, technical skills training, and career development initiatives.
• Leverage a variety of learning methods and modalities, such as e-learning, workshops, coaching, and blended learning approaches, to meet diverse learner needs.

Succession Planning

• Identify high-potential employees and design talent acceleration programs to nurture their growth and prepare them for leadership roles.
• Collaborate with HR and business leaders to develop succession plans and talent pipelines that ensure the availability of qualified candidates for critical positions.

Performance Management

• Oversee execution of Region Performance Management processes
• Define initiatives to drive Counsellor & LEAD Reviewer Excellence, adopting global guidelines and processes
• Collaborate with HR and managers to integrate talent development practices into the performance management process.
• Support the implementation of performance development plans, individual development plans, and ongoing feedback mechanisms to drive employee growth and performance.
• Analyse Region people performance dashboard data to inform Region Talent Development initiatives

Coaching and Mentoring

• Act as a Subject Matter Expert and point of contact for all coaching-related advice and queries
• Provide coaching and mentoring to employees, managers, and high-potential talent, fostering their professional growth and leadership capabilities.
• Facilitate the establishment of mentoring programs and networks to promote knowledge sharing and career development.

Talent Assessment and Development Tools

• Identify and implement talent assessment tools and methodologies to evaluate employee skills, competencies, and potential.
• Utilize data-driven insights to identify skill gaps and development opportunities, and implement targeted interventions.

Talent Metrics and Reporting

• Establish key talent metrics and reporting mechanisms to track the effectiveness and impact of talent development initiatives.
• Provide regular updates and reports to stakeholders, highlighting progress, outcomes, and recommendations for improvement.

Stakeholder Collaboration

• Collaborate with HR, senior leaders, and department managers to align talent development initiatives with business strategies and priorities.
• Act as a trusted advisor to the Region Talent Development Leader and senior business stakeholders

Qualifications and Skills

• A degree in Human Resources, Organizational Development, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in talent development, learning and development, or a related role.
• Proven experience in designing and implementing talent development programs and initiatives.
• Strong knowledge of talent management principles, adult learning theories, and talent assessment tools.
• Experience in coaching and mentoring individuals at various career levels.
• Excellent project management skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on data-driven decision-making.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Certification in talent development, coaching, or related areas (e.g., ATD, ICF) is a plus