Head of Learning & Development
Job Description
Purpose: GEMS Education believes in fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth adopting a values driven performance philosophy that develops its talent from within. The purpose of the
Head of Learning & Development (L&D) role is to support the growth and development of our employees.
The
Head of L&D is responsible for designing and implementing learning strategies, managing training programs, and developing employees’ skills and knowledge with the aim of equipping employees with the skills the organization needs to achieve its goals.
Key Accountabilities:
L&D Strategy
Designs and implements L&D strategy and framework across GEMS Education Creates training programs and innovative learning models that are aligned with the organization’s strategic objectives Works closely with various leaders across the organization to design curriculums for all employees that focus on core values, strategic imperatives, upskilling requirements, and just-in-time learning Provides curriculums that incorporate different styles of training techniques, including e-learning, tutorial sessions, coaching or job-shadowing Support employees' growth and developing their knowledge, skills, and capabilities to drive better business performance Assessing, benchmarking, and reporting the effectiveness of training programs Promoting training opportunities to employees within the company Liaising with other stakeholders to assess training requirements, tracking of budgets, and negotiating contracts Supporting staff and management with tailored learning opportunities during operational change Building relationships with third-party training providers to ensure that the organization has access to the most fit-for-purpose L&D technology available Prepare co-funding request for in-company training that is submitted annually to the Ministry of Education Maintains current knowledge of L&D innovation, best practices, and future trends Ensure regular reporting and that systems and processes are in place to support the monitoring, tracking and evaluation of the agreed KPIs
L&D for Senior Executives and Top Talent
Oversees professional development of senior executives and top talent Develops and manages personalized career profiles for senior executives and top talent including career progression, performance track record, and leadership aspirations including coaching of individuals with the support of the team Works closely with senior executives and top talent to explore career progression options and craft development interventions (e.g., training and rotation programs) according to long-term career path and aspirations Develops detailed professional development plans based on target career path and underlying development needs Evaluates effectiveness and success of proposed professional development interventions Ensures full understanding of the performance changes in each of these populations including plans to bring them back up if the performance has dropped
Critical Role and Top Talent Retention
Sets the guidelines for critical role retention and works with Heads of Departments to ensure high quality implementation Identify and manage a portfolio of attrition tools we want to offer company wide Evaluates effectiveness of critical role retention program across the organization Develops and manages retention plans for senior executives and top talent
Succession Planning
Sets the guidelines and framework for succession planning and coordinates with Heads of Departments to ensure effective implementation – in collaboration with Performance Management team Develops succession plans for senior executives and liaises with Heads of Departments and other closely related key stakeholders to ensure readiness of succession candidates for all other critical roles – particularly to make sure top talent is prioritized for any succession planning Analyze and understand exit trends in collaboration with the Data Analytics team Sets guidelines for career path design across the organization and ensures alignment with across job titles
Skills
Qualifications and Expected Experience: Bachelor’s degree in HR, Psychology, or similar discipline 10+ years’ experience in HR with 5+ years' direct experience in professional learning and development in a leading regional/international organization Experience in education, training and leadership development of senior executives Proven track record in improving retention within an organization
Job-Specific Knowledge & Skills:
Deep expertise in professional learning and talent development Strong presentation, communication and stakeholder management skills Collaborative mindset and approach Strong understanding of GEMS’ business and operations Strong leader who inspires a sense of purpose and direction Strong problem-solving skills
Job Location Dubai, UAE Company Industry Education Job Role HR
GEMS Corporate Office
Education Dubai, United Arab Emirates
