Group Head of Learning & Development

We are seeking a strategic, forward-thinking Head of Learning & Development to lead the design and execution of a future-focused learning strategy that enables business growth and capability building. This role will drive a high-impact learning agenda across the organisation, ensuring our people have the skills, tools, and leadership capability to thrive in a dynamic retail environment.

L&D Strategy & Framework

• Develop the Group L&D strategy aligned to the People and Business strategy.

• Design the L&D framework aligned to the business model and capability needs, supporting the talent strategy.

• Translate long-term strategy and framework into clear tactical execution plans for the team.

• Develop and lead L&D policies.

• Define and track ROI measures for key learning outcomes.

   

Skills Development

• Develop and drive the skills development framework aligned to transformation and employment equity legislation across all divisions (including acquisitions).

• Lead the collation and submission of the annual Workplace Skills Plan (WSP) and Annual Training Report (ATR) to the relevant SETA.

• Manage key stakeholder relationships (BBBEE Manager, Payroll, Tax, SETA, vendors, EE Committee, HR and business).

• Take accountability for SETA spend, including rebates and refunds, in line with budget.

• Manage Delegation of Authority (DOA) contracts and processes for discretionary SETA grants.

• Build external networks across sectors to maximise funding opportunities and influence relevant tertiary curricula.

• Oversee skills development policy management.

Academy Management

• Manage learning demand across the business.

• Approve in-house learning design and ensure quality of learner experience (including content for critical skills, version control, and brand alignment).

• Ensure accuracy and integrity of learning data and reporting.

• Oversee learning technology platforms and tools.

• Prioritise L&D focus areas and learning portfolio for the financial year.

Governance, Risk & Compliance

• Manage L&D policies, procedures, and legal contracts.

• Ensure adherence to financial governance processes.

• Oversee all compliance reporting requirements.

• Manage L&D-related risks through the risk register.

• Stay up to date with skills development legislation and regulatory changes.

Leadership & Team Management

• Manage team capacity and performance against defined KPIs.

• Drive succession planning within the L&D team.

• Establish and track team development goals.

• Foster a high-performance, values-driven team culture aligned to organisational DNA

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in HR, Industrial Psychology, Education, or related field (Master’s advantageous)

EXPERIENCE

• 8–12 years’ experience in Learning & Development, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role leading diverse teams

• Strong experience in leadership development and organisational capability building

• Exposure to retail, FMCG, or multi-site environments highly advantageous

• Experience with digital learning platforms and modern learning methodologies

• Experience building, inspiring, and managing diverse​ teams

• Provide thought leadership, design and delivery of the core capabilities of the learning and development team.