Program Manager, Learning & Development

Program Manager, Learning & Development

Overview: The Program Manager, Learning and Development (L&D) is responsible for planning, executing, and overseeing L&D programs that support the strategic objectives of the organization. This role requires a dynamic individual skilled in program management, stakeholder engagement, curriculum design, and process improvement, with a passion for fostering employee development. The ideal candidate will be adept at managing multiple L&D initiatives simultaneously, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and meet the needs of the organization.

Role and Responsibilities:

Experience Design:
o Engage with key stakeholders to gather learning needs, program requirements, timelines, and strategic outcomes.
o Lead the design and development of engaging and effective learning programs that address those needs.
o Work with Learning Experience Designers to envision and design learning programs that are aligned with strategic objectives, showcase L&D best practices, and are delivered through appropriate learning modalities (e.g., in-person, virtual, e-learning).
o Ensure learning programs incorporate feedback and adapt to changing organizational needs.

Program Planning and Execution:
o Develop comprehensive project plans for L&D programs/initiatives that align with organizational needs, timelines, resources, etc.
o Coordinate cross-functional teams, including learning designers, delivery specialists, admins, and subject matter experts, to ensure effective and efficient program execution.
o Monitor and track program progress, adjusting plans as necessary to meet targets.

Stakeholder Management:
o Provide updates and ensure alignment with program objectives.
o Serve as the primary point of contact for all program-related inquiries and communications, fostering strong relationships with internal and external partners.

Resource Management:
o Identify and allocate resources necessary for program execution, including budget management and resource scheduling.
o Manage program budgets, ensuring financial objectives are met and resources are utilized efficiently.

Risk Management:
o Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies to minimize impact on program delivery.
o Monitor and report on program risks, implementing corrective actions as needed.

Quality Assurance:
o Ensure that all L&D program deliverables meet the required quality standards and specifications.
o Implement continuous improvement processes to enhance program performance and outcomes.

Data Analysis and Reporting:
o Collect and analyze program data to evaluate performance, identify trends, and inform decision-making.
o Prepare and present detailed reports on program status, outcomes, and areas for improvement.

Benchmarking and External Insights:
o Benchmark L&D programs against industry best practices and emerging trends.
o Bring external insights and suggestions to enhance the effectiveness and innovation of L&D initiatives.

Process Improvement:
o Evaluate existing L&D processes and workflows, identifying opportunities for improvement.
o Implement best practices and innovative solutions to enhance program efficiency and effectiveness.

Team Leadership:
o Provide guidance, support, and leadership to program teams.
o Foster a collaborative and high-performance team environment.


Skills and Qualifications:

Educational Background:
o Advanced degrees or certifications in project management (e.g., PMP, PgMP) or L&D (e.g., CPLP) are preferred.

Experience:
o Proven experience in program or project management, with a track record of successfully delivering complex L&D projects.
o Experience in curriculum design and instructional design, creating engaging and effective learning experiences.
o Experience managing cross-functional teams and working in a matrix organization.

Technical Skills:
o Proficiency in project management software and L&D tools (e.g., LMS, monday.com).
o Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make data-driven decisions.

Soft Skills:
o Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels.
o Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously.
o Problem-solving mindset with the ability to think strategically and execute methodically.

Personal Attributes:
o Self-motivated, proactive, and able to work independently.
o Detail-oriented with a commitment to delivering high-quality results.
o Adaptable and resilient, able to thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.