Training and development officer/manager

Job description

Training and development officers have the duty of managing the learning and professional development of an organisation's workforce. They assess the training needs of the employees, facilitate schemes and arrange training days. Training officers can be self-employed but typically work as part of an internal department, in both public and private sectors.

Work activities

• Developing HR training and development strategies with line managers by considering immediate and long-term staff requirements.
• Analysing training needs in conjunction with line managers.
• Planning, directing and delivering training and development programmes including staff inductions, to accomplish the organisation’s goals.
• Developing individual training programmes that meet the skills gap identified through training needs assessment.
• Designing and implementing appropriate e-learning strategies.
• Promoting an open knowledge-sharing environment that builds knowledge, skills and service for the benefit of the organisation as a whole.

Work conditions

Travel: not a normal part of the working day but attendance at off-site meetings possible.
Working hours: mainly 9 to 5 office hours, Monday to Friday, with the possibility of occasional extra hours.
Location: in towns or cities throughout the country.
Opportunities for self-employment: possible to work as a private training and development consultant and freelance.

Typical employers

• Banks
• Insurance companies
• Hospital
• Universities
• Institutes of technology
• Independent consultancies.

Career development

Progression will very much depend on the size of the organisation. Relocation may be necessary. The possibility to move from generalist training roles into specialist areas such as change management exists.

Other relevant degree subjects

• Business
• Economic
• Law
• Management
• Psychology
• Public administration
• Social studies.

Skills and qualities

• Good communication skills both verbal and written.
• Ability to deliver programmes to a high quality.
• Business awareness and commercially focused.
• Leadership and strong management skills.
• Ability to devise solutions to complex problems.
• Energy and enthusiasm to motivate and engage others.
• Personally credible with strong interpersonal skills.
• Strong influence and negotiation skills.
• Integrity and approachability.