PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

• We are seeking an experienced and passionate Learning and Development Manager to lead the design, implementation, and management of learning initiatives that drive employee growth and organizational performance. The role includes the end-to-end management of skills development initiatives, SETA submissions, and learning programs that enable employee growth and organizational capability. You’ll play a key role in building a culture of continuous learning in Retail, Logistics, B2B Commercial, Production, and supporting roles in Central Office, aligned with our company’s vision and values. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing and optimizing all learning and training processes and teams, improving L&D efficiency, and providing excellent customer service, whilst supporting overall company profitability.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Learning & Development Strategy: Collaborate with the People Operations Executive in developing the L&D Strategy. Implementation of the L&D strategy in alignment with business needs and HR objectives. Identify current and future learning needs through skills gap analyses and workforce planning. Support talent development initiatives, including succession planning and career pathing. Champion a learning culture across all levels of the organization
• Skills Development & SETA Compliance: Compile and submit the Workplace Skills Plan (WSP) and Annual Training Report (ATR) to the relevant SETA. Act as the Skills Development Facilitator (SDF) and manage SETA engagements, ensuring compliance and leveraging discretionary grant opportunities. Track and report on Skills Development Levy (SDL) spend and ROI. Liaise with SETA representatives to secure discretionary and mandatory grant funding for training initiatives. Maintain accurate training records and submit required reports to regulatory bodies. Ensure alignment with BBBEE scorecard requirements for Skills Development. Assist in the accreditation of training programs and compliance with Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) or Sector Education Training Authorities (SETAs) as a company-registered service provider through our School of Excellence.
• Training & Development Programs: Design and implement targeted learning interventions: onboarding, leadership development, technical training, and soft skills. Oversee the Learnerships, Internships, Apprenticeships, and Graduate Programs. Coordinate workplace-based learning programs. Manage external training providers and ensure quality delivery of programs.
• Monitoring & Evaluation: Track learning effectiveness, impact, and outcomes using defined KPIs. Report on learning progress to internal stakeholders and recommend improvements. Manage the Learning Management System (LMS), reporting tools, and training records.
• People & Stakeholder Engagement: Partner with line managers to support employee development plans. Engage with external partners (SETA, training providers, consultants). Promote a learning culture that supports continuous professional development.
• Leadership, Culture, Engagement, and Capability Building: Foster a positive and inclusive team culture, promote employee engagement, and develop the capabilities of logistics team members through training, coaching, and mentoring in support of our company values and HO HOLA Culture.
• Collaboration: Work closely with internal and external stakeholders to ensure alignment and effective L&D initiatives.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Education, Psychology, or a related field (Master’s or professional certifications are a plus).
• 7+ years of experience in L&D, with at least 5 years in a leadership or management role.
• SETA / Skills Development Facilitator certification (advantageous).
• Proven experience in WSP/ATR submissions and working with SETA’s.
• Experience managing learnerships and development programs aligned with BBBEE strategy.
• Strong understanding of South African Skills Development Act, SDL, SETA landscape, and BBBEE.
• Proficient in MS Office, Learning Management Systems (LMS), and data reporting tools.
• Knowledge of instructional design and adult learning principles.

KEY SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES REQUIRED

• Strong knowledge of adult learning principles, instructional design, and e-learning tools.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to translate business needs into learning solutions in support of broader business goals.
• Excellent facilitation, coaching, and communication skills.
• Analytical mindset with experience in measuring learning impact and ROI.
• Proficiency in LMS platforms and digital learning technologies.
• Ability to collaborate across departments and lead projects independently.
• Proven track record of improving L&D efficiency and cost management.
• Experience in the food service or retail industry would be an advantage.
• Experience leading teams through periods of transformation and growth.
• Customer-centric approach ensuring service levels and delivery standards are met or exceeded.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and mentor. Strong business acumen with the ability to partner with leadership on driving L&D initiatives.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and prioritize multiple tasks.
• High attention to detail and a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Building and maintaining relationships with strong interpersonal skills – living out the company values and unique HO HOLA culture (Helpfulness; Obsession for Customers; Humility, Ownership, Learning, Appreciation).