Learning & Development Manager

Job DescriptionShape the way we grow capability at Synlait. We’re looking for a hands-on, solutions-focused Learning & Development Manager. Stepping into this newly created role, you'll work within our Safety, People & Culture Team to help shape how we build capability across our business. This is a critical role that will set the foundation for how we grow skills, knowledge, and lift capability across our entire operation - from Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Quality & Laboratory, through to supporting functions.

You’ll be coming in at a pivotal time as we continue to build stability and embed a strong focus on quality, safety, and right first time across the business. The focus is on getting back to basics: lifting capability where it matters most, aligning with our IWS (Integrated Work Systems) journey, and ensuring consistent, practical training is in place for every function. This is a hands-on role that requires someone who’s done this before and can hit the ground running.

We're looking for someone with exceptional stakeholder management skills who can connect with all levels of the business. You’ll need to bring clarity, pace, and structure with real-world training solutions that support frontline teams and operational leaders day-to-day. Key responsibilities of this role include:

Develop and lead an annual training needs analysis (TNA) and translating business priorities into a structured, fit-for-purpose learning and development planDesigning and delivering practical training solutions across safety, quality, SOPs, and compliance, while embedding a clear, business-led competency frameworkStandardising and improving onboarding and induction processes to ensure new starters are confident, competent, and set up for success from day oneManaging learning systems and reporting, ensuring data accuracy, audit readiness, and meaningful insights that support continuous improvement to training programsLeading a small team, coordinating a cross-functional trainer network, and partnering across the business to drive change, embed learning, and lift capability where it matters mostSkills And ExperienceThe ideal candidate will have the following skills and attributes:

Proven experience designing and delivering training in operational environments such as manufacturing, logistics, or infrastructure, with a strong understanding of adult learning principles and different learning stylesDemonstrated capability in developing and embedding competency frameworks, SOP-based training, and compliance-focused contentStrong stakeholder engagement and influencing skills, with experience partnering across frontline, technical, and functional teamsHands-on experience managing learning systems (LMS), tracking training compliance, and using data to drive improvement and reportingLeadership capability, including guiding a team and coordinating cross-functional training networks, with an understanding of change management and exposure to IWS, Lean, or continuous improvement principlesQualifications:

A tertiary qualification in Learning & Development, Human Resources, Education, or a related fieldNZ Certificate in Adult & Tertiary Teaching (Level 5) or similar (desirable)Instructional Design or compliance training certification (advantageous)Applicants outside of New Zealand will only be considered if you have the legal right to live and work in New Zealand. About Us | The Synlait WaySynlait is a dynamic, purpose-led milk nutrition company that is Doing Milk Differently for a Healthier World! We pride our organisation as being different and allowing our spirit to drive our success, shifting perceptions and driving value through new thinking and a new attitude.

You’ll be joining down-to-earth, authentic people working together to create the very best in milk nutrition as we combine expert farming with innovative thinking and state-of-the-art processing to produce a range of nutritional milk products for our global customers. We will challenge you by providing the opportunities you’ve been seeking to expand your career; we believe that everyone brings unique experiences and perspectives to the table so are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and embrace diversity to drive innovation and business success. What we offer:

Health insurance cover Excellent parental leave with our Matua policy World Class manufacturing facilities and BCorp TM certified Social Club membership opportunities What's next? Apply now!Include your most recent CV and cover letter summarising your abilities and what you can bring to Synlait. We wish you the best of luck in your application. We encourage you to apply early as we will be reviewing applications regularly andmay close the advertisement early. Together we will continue to create a workplace where everyone can thrive and contribute their best.