Head of Learning and Development

Job Description

Job Title: Head of Learning and Development

Location: Scotstoun, hybrid, minimum 3-4 days per week; the role will require main attendance at the Academy due to the nature of the role

We offer a range of hybrid and flexible working arrangements. Please speak to your recruiter about the options for this particular role

Salary: Up to £110,000 + DOE + Car allowance and bonus scheme

Who we are:

Join BAE Systems and you’ll be part of something bigger. As a valued member of our global colleague network, you’ll bring your unique skills and perspectives to help pioneer progress and protect what matters most. You’ll be trusted to play your part in delivering the advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions of tomorrow, shaping a safer future, for all of us.

From the depths of the ocean, to the far reaches of space, there’s no limit to where a career at BAE Systems could take you.

What you’ll be doing:

In this role, you will shape a forward‑looking workforce development strategy that positions Naval Ships for future programme demands, acting as the custodian of organisational learning bridging education and operational practice so future generations are better equipped to learn from the past. Partnering with the Learning CoE, Functions, and the M&L Sector, you will design integrated learning pathways that blend formal education with modern applied training, while building good external partnerships to secure a sustainable, enterprise‑aligned talent pipeline.

You will define the strategic capability of the shipbuilding workforce by establishing robust frameworks, modular training solutions, and cross‑functional learning journeys that link technical expertise to operational reality. You will oversee governance and quality assurance across all leaning programmes and working with engineering, production, and programme leaders, you will align development to project priorities, advance digital learning innovation, embed mentoring, strengthen knowledge transfer, and anticipate future capability requirements through targeted STEM engagement.

Core duties:

• You’ll be experienced in leading large scale workforce development or L&D functions in a complex engineering or manufacturing environment
• You’ll have a deep understanding of vocational education, skills frameworks, apprenticeships, and professional development strategies
• You’ll have a good understanding of the Naval Defence sector or similar complex program delivery environments
• You’ll have the proven ability to build partnerships with academic institutions, training providers, and regulatory bodies.
• You’ll hold a track record of successfully implementing modern learning methodologies and technologies (e.g., digital learning, immersive simulation)
• You’ll be experienced in either shipbuilding, defence, aerospace or nuclear sectors, with familiarity of SQEP frameworks and Defence Sector Skills Plans; ideally supported by chartered professional membership (e.g., CIPD, IET, IMarEST) and/or postgraduate study in education, leadership or organisational development
• You’ll have experience acting as a CAM for a Learning Academy, making strategic investment decisions that drive business savings and prevent duplication at the enterprise level

The Academy Team:

This role leads the future of workforce development for Naval Ships, shaping a learning strategy that builds a highly skilled, future‑ready shipbuilding workforce. As the bridge between education and operations, you’ll drive modern learning innovation, strengthen academic partnerships, and ensure enterprise solutions truly meet the needs of the frontline.

Why BAE Systems?

Here you’ll build a career with purpose and limitless possibilities. With lifelong learning and meaningful work, this is a place where you can grow your career with confidence and be empowered to be your best. You’ll be recognised for your contribution and enjoy rewards tailored to what’s most important to you and your family, support for your financial and personal wellbeing, as well as a balanced lifestyle. In an environment embracing sustainable ways of working and with a strong sense of shared purpose, our supportive culture is a place you can feel you belong and proud of the difference you make.

A place where everyone can thrive:

We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We know that a diversity of backgrounds, perspectives and experiences strengthens our teams and is vital to the work we do.

Please be aware that many roles at BAE Systems are subject to both security and export control restrictions. These restrictions mean that factors such as your nationality, any nationalities you may have previously held, and your place of birth can restrict the roles you are eligible to perform within the organisation. All applicants must as a minimum achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard. Many roles also require higher levels of National Security Vetting where applicants must typically have 5 to 10 years of continuous residency in the UK depending on the vetting level required for the role, to allow for meaningful security vetting checks.

Closing Date: 6th April 2026

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.

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