Learning and Development Lead

Acorn by SynergieBarnstaplereedpublished 10/29/2026
Must-have:SeniorLead

About the company

Acorn by Synergie is delighted to be partnering with a successful manufacturing business to recruit an experienced Learning & Development Lead.

Your tasks

This is an opportunity for a passionate L&D professional with a strong background in manufacturing to drive workforce capability, develop future leaders and create engaging learning experiences across a fast-paced operational environment.

Working closely with operational leaders and the wider HR team, you will lead learning and development initiatives across the business, ensuring employees at all levels have the skills, knowledge and support needed to succeed.

Responsibilities include

  • Developing and delivering the site's Learning & Development strategy.
  • Identifying skills gaps and implementing effective development solutions.
  • Designing and facilitating leadership, management and skills-based training programmes.
  • Supporting succession planning and talent development initiatives.
  • Coaching managers to build high-performing teams and strengthen people management capability.
  • Leading onboarding and induction programmes for new employees.
  • Managing training compliance, learning records and development pathways within a manufacturing environment.
  • Evaluating learning effectiveness and using data to drive continuous improvement.
  • Building strong relationships across Operations, Quality, HR and senior leadership teams.

Requirements

We are looking for someone who combines strategic thinking with hands-on delivery and is passionate about helping people grow, develop and perform at their best.

To be considered, you must have previous Learning & Development experience within a manufacturing, engineering, production or industrial environment.

You will also have

  • At least five years' experience in an L&D, Talent Development or Organisational Development role.
  • Strong experience designing and delivering engaging training programmes.
  • Strong facilitation, coaching and stakeholder management skills.
  • Experience supporting leadership and management development.
  • A confident, proactive and solutions-focused approach.
  • Experience using learning management systems and digital learning platforms, with exposure to tools such as Insights, MBTI, DiSC and Hogan.
  • Excellent communication and organisational skills.
  • A bachelor's degree in HR, Education, Organisational Development, Psychology or a related field.
  • A data-driven approach to decision-making.

What we offer

  • The opportunity to shape and influence learning across a growing manufacturing business.
  • A highly visible role with a genuine impact on people and performance.
  • A supportive and collaborative culture.
  • A competitive salary and benefits package.

How to apply

If you are an experienced Learning & Development professional from a manufacturing background who is passionate about developing people, building capability and creating a culture of continuous learning, we would love to hear from you.

Apply today through Acorn by Synergie.

Other

Learning & Development Lead | L&D Lead | Learning and Development Manager