Director of Learning and Development
Requisition #: req13419
Location: Grand Rapids, MI
Hours: Full time (40 hours/week)
Bethany is changing the world through family. We began our work by serving one child more than 75 years ago. Today, Bethany is an international Christian nonprofit partnering with communities in more than 30 states and in several countries around the world. We strengthen and preserve families, support displaced people fleeing danger, and find safe, loving families for children who need them. Bethany is at the forefront of creating and implementing solutions to meet the growing needs of vulnerable children and families in the U.S. and around the world.
As the Director of Learning and Development you will be primarily responsible for leading our organization's efforts in fostering the growth and professional development of our workforce across the business. In this role, you will play a pivotal role in creating, implementing, and executing innovative learning strategies that align with our business objectives and support the ongoing success of our diverse staff.
This individual has broad knowledge of all aspects of Instructional Systems Design frameworks and models, while accurately assessing the best suited framework for Bethany. Success in this role will require the individual to serve as a role model of Bethany’s core values and understand the overall mission of the business. This individual must also have a passion for cultivating talent, a strong background in curriculum-based learning, and the ability to navigate a decentralized work environment.
This position is expected to function effectively with little supervision while following the guidelines given on procedures, along with agency, federal, and state regulatory requirements.
ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
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Manage a team of learning professionals, providing mentorship, guidance, and growth opportunities;
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Lead by example, promoting a culture of continuous learning, open communication, and collaboration;
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify organizational learning needs and design a comprehensive learning strategy that aligns with business goals and values;
- Devise strategies for catering to a geographically dispersed workforce, ensuring consistent learning experiences regardless of location;
- Lead the execution of learning initiatives, coordinating logistics, scheduling, and resources to ensure seamless delivery of training programs;
- Monitor and evaluate the impact of learning programs, collecting feedback and data to drive continuous improvement;
- Oversee the development of a wide range of curriculum-based learning programs, including e-learning modules, instructor-led training, workshops, and other learning resources;
- Partner with subject matter experts to ensure the accuracy, relevancy, and effectiveness of learning materials;
- Implement and promote engaging learning methodologies that cater to various learning styles and preferences;
- Leverage e-learning tools, Learning Management Systems (LMS), and other digital resources to create a blended learning approach.
- Collaborate with Branch and HQ leadership, executives, and all other leaders of people to understand their teams' learning needs and develop customized training solutions;
- Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess the effectiveness and impact of learning programs on employee performance, engagement, and organizational goals;
- Provide regular reports and data-driven insights to leadership regarding the success of learning initiatives;
- Drive an employee-centric mindset across the business;
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Function as an active member of the HR leadership team regarding process improvement, strategic planning, and input as needed;
- Foster strong relationships with external partners, vendors, and industry experts to bring cuttingedge insights and resources to the organization;
- Maintains and cultivates positive working relationships with all levels of staff;
- Ensure agency policies and procedures are enforced through completion of staff evaluations, timesheets, reimbursement oversight and other agency approval procedures;
- Lead and demonstrate behaviors that align with Bethany’s mission and values;
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Stay up to date with advancements in learning technologies and platforms and recommend their integration to enhance learning experiences.
- Participates in or manages projects, as needed
- Complete other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s level degree in Human Resources, Education, Organizational Development, or equivalent field of study from an accredited college, Masters level preferred;
- At least six (6) years of progressive Human Resources experience to include performing Instructional Systems Design or Organizational Development work;
- At least three (3) years of experience managing individuals and/or teams
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Excellent verbal and written communication, and interpersonal skills;
- Proven experience in building, leveraging development tools and assets to build a bench development program for key roles within the organization;
- Demonstrated knowledge in curriculum development, instructional design, and adult learning principles;
- Strong understanding of decentralized workforce dynamics and strategies for supporting remote employees;
- Familiarity with learning technologies, e-learning platforms, and LMS systems;
- Exceptional leadership and team management skills;
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Data-driven mindset with the ability to analyze and interpret learning metrics;
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Innovative and forward-thinking mindset to drive continuous improvement in learning strategies;
- Ability to adapt to changing business needs and work in a fast-paced environment;
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Must possess a strong attention to detail with exception problem solving and analytical skills;
- Exercise a high level of confidentiality;
- Work well under pressure and adaptable to change;
- Computer skills sufficient to perform essential functions including knowledge of Microsoft Office suite;
- Must be 21 years old with a valid driver’s license with at least 3 years driving experience in the U.S. to operate a vehicle on behalf of Bethany. Must also pass a Motor Vehicle Records (MVR) check and maintain a reliable vehicle with proof of adequate insurance coverage;
- Pass a criminal history screen, including state and local child protection agency registries;
- Subscription to and integration of the agency Statement of Faith and Mission Statement.