Head of Learning and Development - Retail

The Head of Learning & Development is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing comprehensive training programs that drive employee growth, enhance performance, and support long-term career development across the organization. This role establishes performance metrics, evaluates productivity, and fosters a culture of continuous learning. The Head of L&D ensures that all training initiatives align with organizational goals, support business objectives, and contribute to overall workforce capability and engagement.Key ResponsibilitiesTraining Strategy & ManagementOversee, plan, and execute all training activities across the UAE and regional markets in alignment with organizational policies and sales objectives.Develop and implement learning and development initiatives based on evolving business needs and workforce capabilities.Create, coordinate, and deploy the annual training calendar across all brands in the organization.Ensure all training programs support career development and drive measurable productivity improvements.Content Development & Learning SolutionsReview, refine, and enhance training content to ensure relevance, accuracy, and strong learning impact.Develop cost-effective, high-quality training solutions tailored to employee development requirements.Acquire in-depth product knowledge of new brands and ensure the training team is equipped to deliver effective product training.Recommend innovative learning materials, methodologies, and delivery approaches to improve training outcomes.Training Delivery & Performance MeasurementManage the evaluation of training delivery, ensuring consistent follow-up and accurate documentation of all training activities.Design and implement training courses and programs for diverse, multicultural teams.Introduce and implement structured training processes, modules, and guidelines across the organization.Analyze training feedback and drive continuous improvement across all programs.People Development & CoachingInitiate and roll out in-store training and leadership development programs to enhance people skills, engagement, and performance.Conduct store visits for direct assessment of retail staff skills through mock sessions and observations, providing actionable feedback.Organize third-party mystery shopping assessments to evaluate service standards and customer experience.Motivate, mentor, and lead the training team, ensuring a culture of learning excellence, creativity, and collaboration.Manage manpower planning within the training department to ensure optimal resource allocation.Desired Experience & Qualifications10–15 years of experience in Learning & Development, Training, HR, or related fields, with strong expertise in designing and delivering training programs.Proven proficiency in instructional design, adult learning principles, training delivery, and performance evaluation.Strong coaching, communication, and leadership skills with the ability to engage and inspire teams.Experience in retail, lifestyle, or fashion brands (preferred but not mandatory).