Job Description:

Job Title: Learning & Development Manager  

Salary: £35,000 - £38,000 

Location: South Kirkby (near Pontefract / Wakefield) 

Position: Full-time, Permanent 

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. As Learning and Development Manager, you will be responsible for driving 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. In addition, you will shape and deliver consistent, engaging communications across the business.  

Key Responsibilities for the Learning & Development Manager  

• 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 for the Learning & Development Manager  

• 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).