Head of Learning & Development – WSP UK & Ireland

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About the Role

What if you could do the kind of work the world needs? At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives. You can experience a world of opportunity and the chance to shape a career as unique as you.

WSP UK, Ireland & South Africa is seeking a visionary and strategic Talent Development Lead to champion both global and regional learning initiatives. This is a high‑impact role for an accomplished leader with a strong background in professional services, capable of seamlessly balancing global programme leadership with local implementation.

• Lead the design and execution of global talent development projects with alignment to regional needs.
• Collaborate with global and regional stakeholders to implement strategic learning initiatives.
• Lead on Performance Development and collaborate on Succession Planning and Talent Reviews.
• Manage and coach a team of Learning and Development Specialists across UK, Ireland and South Africa fostering a culture of growth and continuous improvement.
• Conduct training needs analysis and develop tailored learning solutions for diverse employee groups.
• Oversee the development and delivery of leadership training programs using blended learning methods.
• Utilise data‑driven insights to evaluate and enhance the effectiveness of learning programs.
• Drive innovation in learning content and delivery methods, ensuring relevance and impact.
• Partner with HR and business leaders to embed learning into the organisational culture.
• Ensure compliance with internal policies and external regulations in all training activities.
• Champion the use of emerging technologies and tools in learning and development.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Human Resources, Education, or related field.
• Proven experience in a professional services environment.
• Demonstrated ability to lead global projects and implement strategies locally.
• Strong operational and implementation skills with a hands‑on approach.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, complemented by strong proficiency in both spoken and written English.
• Experience managing and developing high‑performing L&D teams.
• Proficiency in data analysis to inform learning strategies.
• Experience in instructional design and training delivery.
• Proficiency in MS Office and Oracle Cloud.

Benefits

Work‑life balance: Our hybrid working policy offers the flexibility to work from home two days a week, while also providing opportunities to collaborate in our modern offices across the UK.

Inclusivity & Belonging: We welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences. We enable rewarding careers by encouraging people to bring their whole and authentic selves to work so that our work represents the fullest spectrum of society.

Health & Wellbeing: We are committed to supporting our people, giving you the tools to make improvements to your health and wellbeing through our Thrive programme. Our Virtual GP service gives you access to an NHS or Irish Medical Council GP at a time and place that suits you.

Flex your time: To enhance work‑life balance, WSP offers the “WSP My Hour,” allowing you to take one hour each day for personal activities, with the flexibility to make up the time earlier or later that day.

Your development: We understand the importance of development and training to you. That’s why we foster a supportive environment that invests in your growth, whether through training, mentoring, or Chartership.

About Us

We are one of the world’s leading engineering and professional services firms. Our 72,800 passionate people are united by the common purpose of creating positive, long‑lasting impacts on the communities we serve through a culture of innovation, integrity, and inclusion. With over 9,000 professionals across the UK and Ireland, we are dedicated to our local communities and propelled by international brainpower.

Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all. Join our close‑knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact. Apply today.

Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria, please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.