VP of Learning and Development
Strategic executive overseeing organizational growth through employee training, leadership development, and performance management programs.
Overview
This executive career focuses on the systematic enhancement of human capital through educational frameworks and leadership pipelines. The day-to-day rhythm involves high-level strategic planning, meeting with department heads to identify skills gaps, and reviewing data on program efficacy. It is a role characterized by the translation of business objectives into actionable curricula that drive employee engagement and retention.
The work feels both analytical and interpersonal, requiring the ability to navigate complex organizational politics while maintaining a focus on pedagogical excellence. Success in this field requires a deep understanding of adult learning theory and the stamina to manage large-scale change management initiatives. Those who thrive in this position generally possess a blend of psychological insight and business acumen, finding satisfaction in seeing organizational performance improve through the growth of individuals.
Responsibilities
- Architect the overarching global learning strategy to support organizational scaling and transformation.
- Direct the design and delivery of leadership development programs for high-potential employees and executives.
- Manage the annual learning and development budget to maximize return on investment for training initiatives.
- Evaluate and implement enterprise-wide learning management systems and digital training tools.
- Partner with senior leadership to define core competencies required for future business success.
- Oversee the data collection and analysis processes to measure the impact of training on business KPIs.
- Lead a team of learning professionals, providing mentorship and setting departmental performance standards.
Qualifications
- A master degree in Human Resources, Organizational Development, or a related field is typically expected.
- Extensive experience leading large-scale corporate training departments or educational functions.
- Demonstrated expertise in adult learning principles and instructional design methodologies.
- Proven track record of managing multi-million dollar budgets and complex project timelines.
- Exceptional communication skills for presenting strategic visions to Board members and C-suite executives.
Nice to have
- Professional certifications such as CPTD or SHRM-SCP are highly regarded.
- Experience managing learning and development across diverse international regions and cultures.
- Deep familiarity with emerging educational technologies including AI-driven personalized learning.
- Previous experience in executive coaching or organizational psychology.
Work environment
- The work is primarily performed in a professional office setting with frequent virtual collaboration.
- Standard executive hours are common, often exceeding forty hours per week during strategic planning cycles.
- Periodic travel to various regional offices or global headquarters is required for program implementation.
- The role involves constant interaction with senior leaders and cross-functional department heads.
- Modern digital tools such as Learning Management Systems and talent analytics platforms are used daily.
Benefits & growth
- Compensation packages typically include a high base salary plus performance-based executive bonuses.
- Equity grants or stock options are standard in public companies and high-growth startups.
- The role offers a direct path to Chief Human Resources Officer or Chief People Officer positions.
- Extensive opportunities for professional networking at global executive conferences and summits.
- Growth is measured by the successful expansion of organizational capability and internal promotion rates.
See how VP of Learning and Development fits you
Take the free Apt quiz for a personalized match score, salary insights, and AI career coaching.
Take the free quiz