Learning and Training Development Manager

Job Title: Learning and Training Development Manager

Location: Portsmouth

Reports to: Managing Director 

About Us:

Hythe Engineering is a trusted partner to some of the UK’s leading Defence, Renewable, and Nuclear contractors. We specialise in bespoke design and manufacturing solutions, with an emphasis on quality, safety, and technical excellence.

Position Overview:

This key role will lead Hythe Engineering’s learning and development strategy, ensuring our workforce remains at the forefront of fabrication and welding excellence in tandem with the development and training requirements from graduate intake to existing staff. 

This pivotal role will oversee training programmes, apprenticeship pathways, and compliance with national and industry standards. The successful candidate will embed a culture of continuous learning, safety, and professional growth across all levels of the company. 

Key Responsibilities:

Learning & Development Strategy 

• Develop and implement Hythe’s L&D strategy aligned with operational and strategic objectives. 
• Conduct Training Needs Analyses (TNA) to identify skill gaps and future capability requirements. 
• Design competency frameworks for graduates, existing staff, project management and welders, fabricators, and supervisors, supporting structured progression and succession planning. 
• Partner with senior leadership to align training priorities with business growth and project delivery demands. 
• Play a key role in the development of cultural development and strategy. 

Technical & Compliance Training 

• Coordinate certification renewals and audits with third-party test houses and accreditation bodies. 
• Maintain accurate training and qualification records for client and regulatory audits. 
• Coordinate mandatory and refresher training — including confined space, working at height, and hot work. 
• Oversee apprentice and trainee programmes in partnership with colleges and external training providers (e.g. City & Guilds, EAL, ECITB). 

Leadership & Workforce Development 

• Develop supervisory and leadership development programmes to enhance management capability. 
• Support personal development planning and mentoring across departments. 
• Promote Hythe’s learning culture — encouraging employees to take ownership of their professional development. 

Learning Systems & Innovation 

• Implement and manage a Learning Management System (LMS) to streamline training administration and reporting. 
• Introduce modern learning methods such as blended learning, e-learning modules, and on-the-job coaching. 
• Continuously improve training delivery through evaluation, feedback, and performance measurement. 

Skills & Competencies 

• Proven experience designing and managing L&D programmes in a technical environment. 
• Recent experience of creating and leading a positive culture environment. 
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and coaching skills. 
• Strong organisational, analytical, and project management abilities. 
• Proficiency in training software and LMS platforms. 

 Qualifications & Experience 

• Degree or diploma in Engineering, Education, or Human Resources (CIPD Level 5+ desirable). 
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in Learning & Development  
• Recognised qualification in training delivery (PTLLS, AET, or equivalent). 
• Experience managing apprenticeship and vocational training schemes. 
• IOSH Managing Safely (preferred). 

Requirements:  

• Please note that roles at Hythe Engineering require security clearance. Successful candidates must obtain security clearance for the position. 

Benefits:  

• Contributory pension scheme.  
• Private medical insurance, including optical and dental.  
• 24/7 employee assistance program.  
• Life assurance scheme.  
• Competitive holiday allowance.