Director of Learning and Development

Job Scope:

As a Director of Learning & Development at the hotel, you will lead the implementation and evaluation of learning programs to enhance employee knowledge, skills, and performance. This role acts as a strategic bridge between Corporate L&D (strategy design) and Hotel Operations (execution & impact), ensuring training programs translate into measurable improvements in guest experience, employee capability, and operational performance.

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

Corporate Strategy Execution & Localization

• Implement Corporate L&D Strategies, frameworks and programs at property level.
• Adapt and localize Corporate Learning Content to reflect:
  • Local Culture
  • Operational realities of the hotel
• Provide full compliance with corporate standards, brand guidelines and learning frameworks
• Provide structured feedback to Corporate L&D on program effectiveness and improvement opportunities.
• Lead annual training needs analysis linked to perforamnce data, guest feedback and audits.

Learning Delivery and Facilitation:

• Deliver training sessions, workshops, and seminars on various topics, utilizing interactive and engaging training methodologies to enhance learning effectiveness.
• Facilitate learning experiences, conduct training evaluations, and provide feedback to participants to ensure learning objectives are met.
• Develop internal trainer capabilities (Train-the-Trainer programs)
• In coordination with Corporate L&D, design training programs, workshops and learning initiatives to address employee development needs and align with organizational goals.

Leadership Development (Implementation & Coaching):

• Roll out corporate management and leadership development programs at property level
• Support Talent identification processes (Successors, HiPos) aligned with corporate frameworks
• Provide on the ground coaching to leaders to reinforce program application

Learning Technology Integration:

• Identify and implement learning technologies, e-learning platforms, and digital tools to enhance training delivery, accessibility, and engagement for employees.
• Manage learning management systems (LMS), online resources, and virtual training solutions to support a blended learning approach.

Pre-Opening & Operational Readiness:

• In coordination with Corporate L&D, design and deliver all pre-opening roadmaps (service culture, SOPS, brand immersion etc.)
• Ensure all employees complete mandatory onboarding and functional training prior to opening
• Partner with Department Heads to certify operational readiness through assessments and simulations

Learning Evaluation and Reporting:

• Develop evaluation metrics, assessments, and feedback mechanisms to measure the effectiveness of training programs and learning initiatives.
• Analyze training data, track learning outcomes, and prepare reports on training effectiveness, ROI, and employee development progress for property leadership and corporate reporting.
• Ensure compliance with local regulatory requirements (ie. KSA Labour law, health & safety, SFDA and HACCP)
• Track completion of mandatory certifications
• Ensure audit readiness for internal and external inspections

Learning Culture Promotion:

• Foster a culture of continuous learning, knowledge sharing, and professional development within the organization through learning events, recognition programs, and learning communities.
• Promote a learning mindset, encourage self-directed learning, and support a culture of innovation and growth among employees.

Requirements

Education, Qualifications/Skills:

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Human Resources, Organizational Development, or related field; Master's degree or relevant certifications preferred.
• 8-12 years proven experience in learning and development roles, training management, or talent development positions, preferably in the hospitality industry with 3-5 years in a leadership role.
• Pre-Opening experience in large-scale hotels or resorts (highly preferred)
• Passion for service excellence and people development
• Strong knowledge of adult learning principles, instructional design methodologies, and training delivery techniques.
• Excellent communication and storytelling skills with the ability to engage and inspire learners at all levels.
• Proficiency in learning management systems (LMS), e-learning tools, and digital learning technologies.
• Analytical mindset, with the ability to assess training needs, evaluate learning outcomes, and measure training impact effectively.
• Strategic thinking, project management skills, and the ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders to drive learning initiatives and talent development strategies.