Learning & Development Manager

Job Description

Job Role - Learning & Development Manager Grade: ML1/SB3 Salary: £45,428 Role Type: Hybrid Location: Manchester/Leeds Hours: 37 per week Are you passionate about creating meaningful impact through Learning & Development? We are seeking a Learning & Development Manager to join our Learning, Talent & Development team. In this role, you will play a key part in shaping workforce capability by designing and delivering effective, forward-thinking learning solutions. You will lead the development and implementation of learning initiatives that enhance skills, improve performance, and foster a culture of continuous development. Your work will directly support the delivery of our People Strategy by addressing capability gaps and enabling colleagues to reach their full potential. This role requires a strong focus on innovation, using modern learning technologies and methodologies to create engaging, inclusive learning experiences. You will also use data and insights to evaluate impact, ensuring our learning approach remains responsive to evolving business needs. Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement learning programmes that address organisational skills gaps and support employee development
• Deliver engaging and effective learning sessions using a range of facilitation techniques
• Develop leadership capability through targeted development initiatives
• Manage learning and development projects, ensuring delivery to agreed timelines, quality standards, and budgets
• Drive innovation in learning by incorporating digital tools and contemporary learning approaches

About You You are an experienced Learning & Development professional with a strong track record of designing and delivering impactful learning solutions. You are confident facilitating sessions for diverse audiences and have the ability to inspire and engage learners. You bring a proactive mindset, excellent organisational skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities. You are also committed to continuous improvement and use data-driven insights to enhance learning effectiveness. We are particularly interested in candidates with:

• Experience designing and delivering effective learning and development programmes
• Strong presentation and facilitation skills
• The ability to analyse data and evaluate learning outcomes
• Excellent organisational and project management capabilities

What’s in it for you?

At Northern, we don’t just value our people - we go the extra mile to support them. Here’s a taste of what you can look forward to:

• Free Travel: Unlimited free travel for you, your partner, and your dependents on Northern services. Plus up to 75% discount on other networks in the UK and Europe.

• Generous Pension Scheme: We top up your contributions by 1.5 times.

• Enhanced Family Benefits: We offer 9 months of full pay for maternity leave and 2 weeks for paternity leave.

• Cycle to Work Scheme: Save up to 42% on a bike and spread the cost.

• Exclusive Discounts: From shopping to wellbeing, Northern Perks has you covered.

• Employee Assistance Programme: 24/7 support for family, lifestyle, and more.

• Training and Career Development: We offer tailored training to our colleagues and opportunities to gain recognised qualifications. Plus enhanced career pathways no matter what part of the business you’re in.

• Recognition: We know how important it is to show how much we appreciate our people. That’s why we have our Northern Lights and Northern Sparks Awards, recognising and celebrating brilliance every day.

Why Northern?

We’re more than just a train operator. We’re the heartbeat of the North – connecting communities, creating opportunities, and driving sustainable growth. With 2,500 trains running daily, we’re on a mission to improve rail travel and enhance the customer experience while protecting the environment.

Back in 1825, the first passenger train set off in the North of England, after which rail quickly spread across the globe – and this year, we’re celebrating 200 years of the modern railway. As we look back on the historic events that led us here, we also look towards the future as we move into the era of Great British Rail. Join us at this pivotal moment in rail history and play your part in our journey.

A place for everyone

The best journeys happen when everyone feels welcome on board.

At Northern, we don’t just move people from A to B – we’re building a team where everyone feels they belong. Our talent team can make reasonable adjustments to the process if that’s something you need. We’re also a Level 2 Disability Confident employer, so if you meet the minimum criteria for the role, we’ll always offer an interview.

We automate parts of our screening process to remove any unconscious bias and to make sure every application is treated fairly. All successful offers will be subject to a DBS check and a medical assessment.

No matter your background, experience, or whether you call it a bap, barm, or cob… there’s a place for you here in the railway.