Group Head of Learning & Development, Durban

We are seeking a strategic, forward-thinking Head of Learning & Development to lead the design and execution of a future-focused learning strategy that enables business growth and capability building. This role will drive a high-impact learning agenda across the organisation, ensuring our people have the skills, tools, and leadership capability to thrive in a dynamic retail environment.

L&D Strategy & Framework

Develop the Group L&D strategy aligned to the People and Business strategy.

Design the L&D framework aligned to the business model and capability needs, supporting the talent strategy.

Translate long-term strategy and framework into clear tactical execution plans for the team.

Develop and lead L&D policies.

Define and track ROI measures for key learning outcomes.

Skills Development

Develop and drive the skills development framework aligned to transformation and employment equity legislation across all divisions (including acquisitions).

Lead the collation and submission of the annual Workplace Skills Plan (WSP) and Annual Training Report (ATR) to the relevant SETA.

Manage key stakeholder relationships (BBBEE Manager, Payroll, Tax, SETA, vendors, EE Committee, HR and business).

Take accountability for SETA spend, including rebates and refunds, in line with budget.

Manage Delegation of Authority (DOA) contracts and processes for discretionary SETA grants.

Build external networks across sectors to maximise funding opportunities and influence relevant tertiary curricula.

Oversee skills development policy management.

Academy Management

Manage learning demand across the business.

Approve in-house learning design and ensure quality of learner experience (including content for critical skills, version control, and brand alignment).

Ensure accuracy and integrity of learning data and reporting.

Oversee learning technology platforms and tools.

Prioritise L&D focus areas and learning portfolio for the financial year.

Governance, Risk & Compliance

Manage L&D policies, procedures, and legal contracts.

Ensure adherence to financial governance processes.

Oversee all compliance reporting requirements.

Manage L&D-related risks through the risk register.

Stay up to date with skills development legislation and regulatory changes.

Leadership & Team Management

Manage team capacity and performance against defined KPIs.

Drive succession planning within the L&D team.

Establish and track team development goals.

Foster a high-performance, values-driven team culture aligned to organisational DNA

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in HR, Industrial Psychology, Education, or related field (Master’s advantageous)

EXPERIENCE

8–12 years’ experience in Learning & Development, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role leading diverse teams

Strong experience in leadership development and organisational capability building

Exposure to retail, FMCG, or multi-site environments highly advantageous

Experience with digital learning platforms and modern learning methodologies

Experience building, inspiring, and managing diverse​ teams

Provide thought leadership, design and delivery of the core capabilities of the learning and development team.